Jaffna
Visiting Jaffna, located at the northern tip of Sri Lanka, is a unique experience that offers a mix of rich history, vibrant Tamil culture, and stunning natural beauty. Known for its colonial heritage, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine, Jaffna is a destination for those seeking to explore a different side of Sri Lanka.
How to reach
From Colombo:
By Train: Take the Yal Devi Express from Colombo for a scenic ride (~6-8 hours).
By Bus/Car: The A9 Highway connects Colombo to Jaffna (~7-9 hours by road).
By Air: Domestic flights from Colombo to Palaly Airport near Jaffna are available.
Highlights
Nagadeepa and Nagapooshani Temple
These are two sacred pilgrimage sites located on Nagadeepa Island.
The Buddhist temple (Viharaya) and the Hindu temple (Amman Kovil) represent the coexistence of different faiths in Jaffna.
Islands Around Jaffna
Explore coral walls, wild ponies, and traditional fishing villages. Delft is particularly unique with its Dutch colonial history and quiet, untouched landscapes.
Kadurugoda Viharaya
A unique archaeological site with small stupas that reflect the ancient Buddhist influence in the region.
Jaffna Fort
A 17th-century Portuguese and Dutch fort with scenic views of the lagoon.
Walk along the ramparts and explore the remnants of colonial history
Jaffna Library
Once one of Asia’s largest libraries, this iconic building was restored after being destroyed in 1981.
A symbol of knowledge and resilience.
Dambakola Patuna
A historic port where Buddhism first entered Sri Lanka.
Visit the serene Buddhist shrine commemorating this event.
Best time to visit Jaffna
Season
January to April: The dry season, with pleasant weather for sightseeing and exploring beaches.
July to August: The festive season with vibrant Hindu temple celebrations.
Avoid: October to December, as it’s the rainy season.
Food to try
Jaffna Crab Curry – A spicy seafood dish famous across the country.
Paal Appam (Milk Hopper) – A sweet, coconut-infused version of appam.
Odiyal Kool – A traditional seafood soup made with palmyra root.
Vadais & Samosas – Available at local street stalls and a must-try snack.
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