Top 5 things to do in Jaffna

Top 5 things to do in Jaffna

A visit to the hub of Hindu culture; Jaffna or as some others call it “yalpanam” will leave you awestricken.

From the fort to kovils and what’s left after the civil war, here are the top 5 places to see in Jaffna during your visit to the Northern part of Sri Lanka.

01. Jaffna Fort

Video credit: Wanderlust

This marvellous structure was constructed by the Portuguese in 1618. Built under the guidance of Phillippe de Oliveira, the fort resembled a Vauban star design; a popular concept in the mid-15th century. The walls are built by granite and limestone.

The blueprints of the Jaffna Dutch Fort reveal that it contained a hospital, barracks, churches, inner ramparts and even a hangman’s tower.

Over the years it has been expanded and renovated by the Dutch and the British, however, at present though renovations are in progress, the after-effects of the civil war can be seen.

Nonetheless, it’s a must visit structure when in Jaffna. Visitors to the fort enjoy views of the city from the ramparts and the best time to head over to the Jaffna Fort: during the sunrise. [Google Maps]

02. Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil

Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil

Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, one of the prominent Hindu temples in Jaffna

Another popular place of interest in Jaffna. The Nallur Kovil is visited by people of all religious faiths. It is located in Kankasanthurai (KKS) Road, approximately 3 kilometres from the town. [Google Maps]

According to historical journals, the temple was constructed by Prince Sapumal (or King Buwanekabahu VI of Kotte) but later destroyed by the Portuguese.

It was later rebuilt during the Dutch era. Today, this kovil is considered one of the most sacred religious complexes in Sri Lanka.

Those who take the time to visit Nallur Kovil can witness various murals, brass work, as well as a large walkway leading to a sacred pool.

Poojas are offered daily to God Skanda (Hindu God of War) as well as other deities.

Pooja Times:

  • 04.00 am – 07.00 pm
  • 05.00 am
  • 10.00 am
  • 12 noon
  • 04.15 pm (small puja)
  • 04.30 pm (special puja)
  • 05.00 pm
  • 06.45 pm

Note: Visitors to the kovil are advised to remove their shoes and men must remove their shirts. Proper covered attire must be worn by ladies.

Official Site: Nalluran

03. Nagadeepa Temple

Nagdeepa Temple

The shrine room of Nagadeepaya temple

Nagadeepa also was known as Nainativu is an island in the Gulf of Mannar.

According to folklore, the island was once inhabited by Naga people (snake worshippers).

It is also believed that Lord Buddha himself visited the island according to the records of Mahavansa to settle a dispute between two Naga kings.

Be prepared for a scenic boat ride! The only way to get to the island is via a boat and there are boats docked at the jetty of Kurikadduvan. [Google Maps]

It will take approximately 15 minutes to reach the island and the service is overseen by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Many Buddhists, as well as travellers to the isle, worship the Buddhist temple which is locally known as නාගදීප පුරාණ විහාරය (Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya).

Once you enter the sacred premises, you can witness the stupas as well as a museum with ancient artefacts placed for public viewing.

Official Site: Nagadeepa Rajamaha Viharaya

04. Jaffna Public Library

Jaffn Public Library

Risen from ashes. The imposing structure of the Jaffna library was renovated after the civil war.

A prominent landmark in Jaffna, the public library run by the Municipal Council was initially built in 1933. It was once considered as one of the largest libraries in Asia holding 97,000 books, unfortunately, it was burnt down 1981.

Re-built in 2001, the library is often visited by scholars as well as those keen on discovering its architecture and the lush gardens. [Google Maps]

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 09.00 am – 07.00 pm (closed on Mondays)

05. Casuarina Beach

Casuarina Beach Jaffna

Enjoy the cool breeze under the shade of Casuarina trees | Photo credit: Mathu M

Among places to see in Jaffna one cannot definitely miss a trip to the beach!

Located approximately 20 kilometres from the Jaffna town, this beach is visited by many locals as well as tourists. The drive to the beach itself is truly breath-taking with plenty of picture opportunities. [Google Maps]

The powdery white sand and lined by tall casuarina trees, is a calming place to be especially during the evening hours.

Note: No alcohol permitted and when heading to the beach people are advised to wear shorts and t-shirts (no bikinis!)

Opening Hours: 07.00 am – 06.30 pm (daily)