Talaimannar port and lighthouse

Talaimannar port and lighthouse

Talaimannar port and lighthouse is situated in Mannar in Sri Lanka. It is a white lighthouse that has a round cylindrical tower with lanterns and a gallery. It is 19 meters in height which are 62 feet and it has a history that is believed to have started from 1915.

About the destination

When you reach Talaimannar you will see a far off lonely port and lighthouse. This is how it can be seen today. But back in the past, this area was one of the busiest areas in Sri Lanka. This is because at that time Mannar was the most famous pearl harvesting place. It was one of the biggest pearl suppliers in the whole world back in the past. But sadly over-harvesting has put an end to pearl harvesting hundreds of years ago.

Structure of Talaimannar port and lighthouse

The Talaimannar port and lighthouse was built in 1915 and was 19 meters in height. But the tower was not maintained due to the civil war that lasted for over decades. This is now repaired and can be accessed by the visitors and this is the only place in Sri Lanka where both an A grade railway and road ends together.

History of The Talaimannar port and lighthouse

Back in December 1964, there was a cyclone that did severe destruction to the Talaimannar port and lighthouse. This place was initially a ferry service where passengers were taken between Talaimannar and Rameshwaram island in India.

Reaching the destination

From Colombo

Follow McCallum Road. Follow Colombo – Katunayake Expressway. Follow the Kandy-Jaffna highway to reach your destination.

Continue on Mannar Road. Go and turn left onto Medawachchiya-Talaimannar Highway to your destination.

From Mannar

Head northwest on Thalvupadu – Mannar Road. Turn left onto Medawachchiya-Talaimannar Highway. Turn right onto Pier Road. Keep left to reach your destination.