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From Indian invasions in mediaeval times to colonial occupations by the Portuguese, Dutch and British, to the very recent civil war, Jaffna’s past has always been conflict laden. However, none of it has diminished the natural beauty nor hospitable nature of the people of Jaffna and it is a great place to visit.
Jaffna is full of historical and religious sites, and visiting these alone can take up quite a lot of a traveller’s time. Until recent times, the peninsula was connected to the rest of the country only via a thin strip of land, but a newly built causeway has increased its accessibility. There are quite a few islands around Jaffna, some are connected by causeways and the rest by ferry services.
The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is a significant temple in Jaffna that has a rich history. The original temple constructed in 948 CE was destroyed and has since been rebuilt three times. The present temple, built in 1734 CE, is quite a grand structure thanks to constant additions and renovations.
This is an ancient and historic Hindu temple, which is considered a significant pilgrimage destination in Hinduism. Located on the island of Nainativu, the temple is dedicated to Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. The present structure was built between 1720 - 1790 CE after the Portuguese destroyed the original temple.
Located on the island of Nainativu, this temple is one of the sixteen holiest Buddhist shrines in Sri Lanka. It is believed that Lord Buddha visited the location to settle a dispute between two Naga kings over a gem studded throne. The temple welcomes thousands of pilgrims each year.
Built by the Portuguese over 400 years ago, the fort has seen plenty of action over the years, most recently during Sri Lanka’s civil war. Restoration work has progressed splendidly since the end of the war, and the vast fort is a definite “must-see” attraction in Jaffna.
The original library was built in 1933 and was renowned as one of Asia's largest libraries with an invaluable collection of books and manuscripts. It was unfortunately burned down in an arson attack in 1981. The library was restored to its former glory when it was rebuilt in 2001.
The Jaffna Market is a busy, noisy and colourful place spread out over several streets. Vendors sell goods ranging from gorgeous traditional clothing to fruits, vegetables, delectable treats and various odds and ends. The sprawling market has many hidden gems and is best explored leisurely on foot.
Point Pedro, also known as Sakkottai Cape, is the northernmost point of Sri Lanka. The location was named by the Portuguese as Ponta das Pedras due to the rocky coastline, which eventually morphed into Point Pedro. During pre-colonial and colonial times it was known to be a successful trading post.
Neduntheevu, named Delft by the Dutch colonisers in the 17th century, has a long history. The ruins of a 1,000 year-old Chola Dynasty temple as well as ruins from the Dutch occupation can still be found here. The island is also famous for its population of feral ponies.
The rumours about the Keerimalai Springs having curative powers are mostly fueled by a local myth, where a sage cursed to have a face like a mongoose was cured by bathing in these waters. The Keerimalai Naguleswaram Kovil, a sacred temple for Hindus, is also located close by.
The ancient “Port of Jambukola” gained religious significance when Theri Sanghamitta arrived here from India with the Sacred Bo Sapling. Although the temple built around 251 BCE to commemorate this momentous occasion does not exist anymore, a new temple stands in its place and functions as a significant Buddhist monument.
Located in the village of Chunnakam, the Kadurugoda Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist monuments in Jaffna. Although only 20 Stupas survive to this day, they are quite unique as the Stupas are made of grey coral and patterned with small holes all over them.
A regular battleground during the civil war, Elephant Pass was fought over many times before the war came to an end. The 42-foot high memorial, in the shape of two hands holding aloft Sri Lanka and flanked by lions, pays tribute to the Sri Lankan military forces.
Chundikulam Lagoon and a large part of the surrounding area were declared as a National Park in 2015. The Park is home to a plethora of birds as well as crocodiles, deer, sloth bears and more. The Park also features many diverse ecosystems, such as mangroves, wetlands, beaches and salt marshes.
Arguably the most famous beach in Jaffna, the Casuarina tree fringed beach is located on the island of Karaitivu. The beach is sought after by locals and travellers due to its wide beaches, shallow waters, and pleasant surroundings. The Karainagar Lighthouse can be found at the eastern end of the shore.
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