OVERVIEW
Jaffna
Jaffna, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka's Tamil north, is a fascinating destination that's only recently opened to tourism. The city and its surrounding peninsula offer magnificent Hindu temples, a distinctive culinary tradition, pristine islands accessible by causeway, and a proud cultural heritage that sets it apart from the rest of Sri Lanka.
Jaffna offers a completely different side of Sri Lanka — vibrant Tamil culture, extraordinary Hindu temples adorned with colourful gopurams, unique cuisine, and untouched islands. It's an authentic destination still relatively free of tourist crowds.
Best for: Tamil cultureHindu templesUnique cuisineIsland hoppingOff the beaten path
THINGS TO DO
Experiences in Jaffna
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil temple visit
Jaffna Fort exploration
Jaffna Public Library
Local food walking tour
Casuarina Beach visit
Nagadeepa Island pilgrimage
Delft Island day trip
Jaffna Market exploration
EXCURSIONS
Day Trips & Excursions
Kayts Island & Hammenhiel Fort
Point Pedro — northernmost point of Sri Lanka
Keerimalai natural springs
Nainativu Island temples
NEARBY