Jaffna - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Jaffna

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Jaffna, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Jaffna and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Jaffna, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Jaffna for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Jaffna

Jaffna is a city located in the northernmost region of Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich Tamil culture and heritage, as well as its historical landmarks such as the Jaffna Fort and the Nagadeepa Purana Vihara temple. The city is also popular for its vibrant local food scene, with dishes such as crab curry and Jaffna-style dosa being must-try delicacies. Jaffna is easily accessible by both air and road, and is a great destination for those looking to explore Sri Lanka's lesser-known regions and immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience. However, it is important to note that the region was affected by a civil war that ended in 2009, and some areas may still have limited accessibility or security concerns.

What to visit in Jaffna

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Jaffna, Sri Lanka along with brief information: 1. Jaffna Fort - A historic fort built by the Portuguese in the 17th century.
2. Nallur Kandaswamy Temple - A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, famous for its annual festival.
3. Keerimalai Hot Springs - A natural hot spring believed to have healing properties.
4. Jaffna Library - A historic library that was burnt down in 1981 and has now been rebuilt.
5. Manalkadu Desert - A unique desert-like area with sand dunes, also known as the "Jaffna Desert".
6. Delft Island - A small island off the coast of Jaffna known for its wild horses and coral reefs.
7. Point Pedro Lighthouse - A lighthouse built during the British colonial period, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
8. Jaffna Market - A bustling market selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
9. Kadurugoda Temple - An ancient Buddhist temple with a cluster of small dagobas believed to date back to the 2nd century BC.
10. Casuarina Beach - A beautiful, secluded beach with clear water and soft sand, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Hope this helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Jaffna.

When to go on holiday to Jaffna

The best time to visit Jaffna, Sri Lanka is from May to September. During this period, the weather is dry, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, making it perfect for visiting the local attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. The monsoon seasons in Jaffna are from October to January and from March to April, so it is best to avoid these months as there can be heavy rainfall, which may disrupt your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Jaffna

There are several ways to get to Jaffna, Sri Lanka: 1. By Air: You can take a domestic flight from Colombo to Palaly Airport, which is located in Jaffna. There are several airlines that operate flights to Jaffna, including Sri Lankan Airlines.
2. By Train: You can take a train from Colombo to Jaffna. This journey takes around 9-10 hours and there are both express and local trains available.
3. By Bus: You can take a bus from Colombo to Jaffna. This journey takes around 8-9 hours and there are both government and private buses available.
4. By Private Vehicle: You can also hire a private vehicle to take you to Jaffna from Colombo. This option gives you more flexibility and freedom to explore the route at your own pace.
It is important to note that due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, travel restrictions may be in place, and it is important to check with local authorities and travel operators for the latest information and guidelines.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Jaffna, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Jaffna

Here are some of the typical foods of Jaffna (Sri Lanka) with a short description for each of them: 1. Jaffna Crab Curry: This is a spicy and flavorful curry made with fresh crabs, coconut milk, and a blend of traditional spices.
2. Jaffna Muslim Biriyani: This biriyani is made with basmati rice, tender meat, and a fragrant blend of spices, including saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon.
3. Jaffna Fish Curry: This is a spicy and tangy curry made with fresh fish, tamarind, and a blend of traditional spices like turmeric and cumin.
4. Jaffna Idiyappam: This is a popular breakfast dish in Jaffna, made from steamed rice noodles served with coconut milk and a variety of savory side dishes.
5. Jaffna Cuttlefish Curry: This curry is made with fresh cuttlefish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices including fennel, coriander, and fenugreek.
6. Jaffna Odiyal Kool: This is a spicy and tangy soup made with fresh seafood, vegetables, and traditional herbs and spices like turmeric and cumin.
7. Jaffna Chicken Curry: This is a classic chicken curry made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of traditional spices including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
8. Jaffna Vadai: These are crispy and delicious lentil fritters, seasoned with traditional spices like coriander and cumin and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Jaffna an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Sri Lanka, Jaffna can be relatively expensive for tourists. Accommodation and meals can be higher in cost than in other parts of the country due to the fact that Jaffna is a less developed and more isolated region. However, there are still affordable options available such as guesthouses, street food, and local transportation. It is important to budget accordingly and research ahead of time to find the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Jaffna

The best areas to find accommodation in Jaffna are in the city center, close to the Jaffna Railway Station, and within walking distance of Jaffna Fort. Some other good areas to consider are near Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil or along the Jaffna-KKS road, which offer easy access to popular tourist destinations such as the Jaffna Library, Jaffna Market, and Jaffna Public Library.
You can check hotel prices at Jaffna here:
Booking.com

Is Jaffna a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Jaffna is generally a safe place for tourists. In recent years, the Sri Lankan government has made significant efforts to improve security and stability in the country, including in Jaffna. However, as with any destination, it's always best to take standard safety precautions. Be vigilant of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid traveling alone at night or in unfamiliar areas. Additionally, it's always helpful to research and follow local customs and laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Jaffna.

What type of travelers will enjoy Jaffna the most?

Jaffna is a great destination for history and culture enthusiasts, so travelers who love to explore historical and religious sites, local customs and traditions, and local food will enjoy this place. It's also ideal for families who want to teach their kids about the rich Sri Lankan culture and heritage.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway may appreciate the serene atmosphere and scenic beauty, strolling down the coastline, trying local cuisine, and enjoying the peace and quiet of the area.
Young people looking for fun may not find the typical nightlife scene in Jaffna, but they can still enjoy local street food and markets and experience the unique culture of the North. Overall, Jaffna is a destination for all types of travelers, but it particularly appeals to those with an interest in cultural and historical experiences.

How to get around Jaffna

There are several types of transportation options available in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. These include: 1. Tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuks are commonly used for short distances and are most prevalent in the city.
2. Buses: Public buses are available throughout Jaffna and are economical, but they can be crowded at times.
3. Trains: Trains connect Jaffna with other cities on the island, and train travel is comfortable and scenic.
4. Motorbikes: Motorbikes are available for rent, but you must have an International Driving Permit to drive them.
5. Private cars: Private car rentals with drivers are also available, and they are ideal if you're looking for a more comfortable and convenient way to travel around the city.

What to see around Jaffna

Here are some great places to visit in a day trip from Jaffna in Sri Lanka: 1. Dambakola Patuna Sangamitta Temple: It is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the town of Kankesanthurai. This temple is considered the place where Arahant Sangamitta arrived in Sri Lanka with a sapling of the Bodhi tree.
2. Nagadeepa Purana Vihara: It is a Buddhist temple situated in the Nagadeepa island, which is located about 36 km from Jaffna. This temple is believed to have been built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa.
3. Casuarina Beach: This beach is located in Karainagar, which is about 28 km from Jaffna. It is a beautiful beach with clear water and an ideal spot for swimming.
4. Nallur Kandaswamy Temple: It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, and is located about 3 km from Jaffna. This temple is famous for its intricate carvings and the annual Nallur Festival.
5. Keerimalai Hot Springs: It is a natural hot spring located in the Keerimalai village, about 17 km from Jaffna. This is a popular spot for relaxing and bathing in the natural pools.
6. Jaffna Fort: It is an ancient fort built by the Portuguese in 1618 and later conquered by the Dutch. It is considered an important historical site in the area and is located close to the Jaffna town.
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