When people think of Sri Lanka, they often picture golden beaches, lush tea plantations, and the ancient ruins of the Cultural Triangle. While all of these are must-sees, there’s another destination that’s just beginning to rise on the radar of curious travelers: Jaffna. Located in the northern tip of Sri Lanka, Jaffna is a culturally rich, historically significant, and uniquely beautiful region that offers an entirely different flavor of travel from the more touristed south.
In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting Jaffna — what to see, what to do, and why this off-the-beaten-path destination should be on your Sri Lanka itinerary.
Why Visit Jaffna?
Jaffna is the cultural and political heart of Sri Lanka’s Tamil community. After decades of civil unrest, the region has opened up to tourism, and today it stands as a peaceful, welcoming and fascinating place to explore. With its vibrant Hindu temples, colonial architecture, tranquil beaches, and authentic Tamil cuisine, Jaffna offers a travel experience that feels entirely different from the rest of the island.
Top Things to Do in Jaffna
1. Visit the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil
One of the most significant Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is the spiritual center of Jaffna. This grand temple, with its towering golden gopuram (gateway tower), attracts thousands of devotees and tourists alike. Try to visit during the annual Nallur Festival (August–September), when the temple becomes the center of a colorful, month-long celebration with parades, rituals, and traditional music.
Tip: Dress modestly when visiting temples — long pants and covered shoulders are expected, and shoes must be removed before entering.
2. Explore the Jaffna Fort
Built by the Portuguese in 1618 and later expanded by the Dutch, the Jaffna Fort is one of the largest forts in Sri Lanka. Though partially in ruins, the fort offers impressive views of the Jaffna lagoon and provides a quiet place to reflect on the region’s colonial history. Walking along its massive stone walls during sunset is a peaceful, unforgettable experience.
3. Wander Through the Jaffna Public Library
Once considered one of the finest libraries in Asia, the Jaffna Public Library was tragically destroyed in 1981 and has since been rebuilt. While it may not hold the literary treasures it once did, it remains a symbol of resilience and cultural pride. The white, colonial-style building with its manicured gardens is worth a short visit.
4. Take a Day Trip to Delft Island
Also known as Neduntheevu, Delft Island is accessible via a short ferry ride from the Jaffna peninsula. The island is famous for its wild ponies, coral walls, Dutch fort ruins, and untouched landscapes. It’s a unique blend of history and natural beauty, ideal for adventurous travelers looking to get off the grid.
5. Relax at Casuarina Beach
Jaffna may not be known for surf and resorts like the south coast, but it has its own tranquil beaches. Casuarina Beach, located on Karainagar Island, is the most popular and best maintained. Its shallow, calm waters are perfect for a peaceful swim, especially in the morning.
6. Indulge in Authentic Tamil Cuisine
The food in Jaffna is a highlight in itself. Spicier and bolder than Sinhalese dishes, Jaffna cuisine features items like crab curry, mutton rolls, kool (a local seafood broth), and dosas. Visit a local restaurant or try street food for the most authentic experience.
Popular spots include:
Malayan Café for vegetarian fare
Cosy Restaurant for seafood lovers
Mangos for South Indian-style meals
Cultural Etiquette in Jaffna
Respect religious spaces: Many of Jaffna’s landmarks are active places of worship. Always ask before taking photos.
Dress conservatively: Especially when visiting temples or rural areas.
English is understood, but learning a few Tamil words (like “vanakkam” for hello) can go a long way.
Best Time to Visit Jaffna
Jaffna’s weather is dry and hot for most of the year, with peak travel months from May to September. Unlike the south and west coasts, the northeast monsoon affects Jaffna from October to January, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time if you’re looking for dry weather.
How to Get to Jaffna
By Train: The most scenic and comfortable option. The “Yal Devi” express train from Colombo to Jaffna takes about 7–8 hours and offers air-conditioned carriages.
By Road: Jaffna is about 400 km from Colombo and takes approximately 8–10 hours by car or bus.
By Air: There are domestic flights from Colombo to Jaffna’s Palaly Airport, reducing travel time to just over an hour.
Accommodation in Jaffna
While Jaffna doesn’t have luxury resorts like the south, it offers comfortable and affordable stays with excellent service. Some popular choices include:
Jetwing Jaffna – A modern hotel with great views
Thambu Illam – A boutique guesthouse with a colonial touch
North Gate by Jetwing – Convenient location near the train station
Why BH Lanka Tours Recommends Jaffna
At BH Lanka Tours, we believe that true travel is about discovering authentic cultures and untold stories. Jaffna offers exactly that — a chance to engage with a rich Tamil heritage, enjoy untouched natural beauty, and gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s complex history.
Our custom Jaffna tour packages are designed to give you the best of local culture, history, and off-the-beaten-path adventure — all with the comfort and guidance of experienced local tour operators.
Conclusion
Jaffna is not just a destination — it’s an experience. From ancient temples and colonial forts to spicy cuisine and island day trips, every part of Jaffna tells a story. If you’re looking for a journey beyond the usual tourist trail, Jaffna belongs at the top of your list. And with BH Lanka Tours, you can explore it confidently, safely, and meaningfully.
