The Jaffna peninsula has a vibrant cultural heritage and a varying landscape that differs to the rest of the island. Situated at the northern tip of Sri Lanka, Jaffna is dotted with Palmyrah, Coconut, and Casuarina trees; serene lagoons that attracts flocks of Flamingos during the migrant season from about November to April; fishing villages, and secluded coastal belts. Most of Jaffna’s population are Tamil Hindus and some from the Tamil community follows Christianity. Usually, mornings start here with a visit to a sacred Hindu Kovil or shrine that is found at most street corners. The delicious traditional cuisine in this region is influenced by south Indian flavours and differs to the rest of the island. A freshly prepared crab curry or soup cooked with a blend of spices, is not to be missed!
Explore Jaffna town with roadways lined with Hindu kovils, churches, and cafes that serve authentic Jaffna cuisine. Visit the colonial period Fort edged by the Indian Ocean; drop in at the Jaffna market to buy handicrafts and local produce; and take in the breathtaking sunset over Jaffna Lagoon. The fishing villages and light house at Point Pedro, which is the northern most point of Sri Lanka, and the north east with its remote sand dunes, are also interesting to explore.
There are several small inhabited islands off mainland Jaffna that are interesting to explore. Kayts, Punkudutivu and Karainagar can be reached by vehicle via the causeways. Travel west from Jaffna town to reach Karainagar where the secluded beaches are lined with Casuarina trees. For the more adventurous, a ferry ride to one of the more distant islands is a memorable experience including Delft Island where wild horses graze by the sea; and Nainativu island where the sacred Nadageepa Buddhist temple and the colourful Naga Pooshani Ambal Hindu Kovil, stands tall against the shimmering turquoise seas.
The Jaffna peninsula can be reached via the A9 route travelling north from Anradhapura in the north central region. The journey on Palmyrah lined roadways takes approximately 4 hours, and goes through scenic remote villages and landscapes.
There are a handful of hotels that provide comfortable accommodation and a memorable northern experience in and around Jaffna town.
A luxurious boutique hotel located in the village of Kokuvil, just 10 minutes away from Jaffna town. This is a fully refurbished ancestral home retaining its original architectural features and offering authentic northern hospitality and traditional cuisine.
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