Jaffna is the city at the northern tip of Sri Lanka. There are lots of things to do in Jaffna. It was the capital of a Tamil kingdom for centuries before it was defeated by Europeans. There are some historical places, like the fort, Nallurkovil, and the public library.
Immerse yourself in history and culture
Jaffna Fort
Jaffna Fort was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. It was built in 1618 under Phillippe de Oliveira following the Portuguese invasion of Jaffna. It is located near the coastal village of Gurunagar. People believed in the Virgin Mary statue, which was near the church and worked many miracles. Because of that, the fort was named the Fortress of Our Lady of Miracles of Jafanapatão, and later it was taken by the Dutch and British.
Nallur Kovil
The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is a Hindu temple located in Nallur, a northern province of Sri Lanka. It was constructed in 948. The Portuguese occupied this area and destroyed the Kovil in 1621, and the present temple was rebuilt in 1734.
Public Library
Jaffna Public Library is the most notable landmark, and it was built in 1933 and burned in 1981. In the 1980s, it was one of the biggest libraries in Asia, and it carried over 97,000 books and documents.
We have more things to do in Jaffna
Sangupiddi Bridge
It is a road bridge across Jaffna Lagoon in northern Sri Lanka. It connects Killinochi district to Karaitivu in Jaffna district. During British colonial rule in July 1932, they planned to build a road across the shallow part of Jaffna Lagoon, linking Sangupiddy, but the plan didn’t work due to protests from local fishermen and salt producers. In December 2009, following the end of the civil war, they executed the plan.
Bird-watching places
It is the best place to experience foreign birds, especially in the winter season. It is a silent place to relax. In the mornings and evenings, a variety of local and travelling birds can be seen during this season. You can also visit more places like Kangesanthurai Lighthouse, Akkarai Beach, Limestone Caves, etc.
Devotional places to visit and worship
Naaga Pooshani Ambal Kovil
Shree Nagapooshani Amman Kovil is one of 64 shakthi peeth in the region. This temple is the most visited historic Hindu temple and is located on Jaffna Nainativu Island, Sri Lanka. This temple consists of four glorious gopurams.
Nagadipa Purana Vihara
Nagadipa Purana Vihara is an important place for Buddhist pilgrims; it is one of the three places that the Lord Buddha visited. This place is one of the sixteen most sacred places being worshipped by Buddhists in Sri Lanka. It is located on Naina Thivu Island in Jaffna.
Nallur Kandaswamy Temple
Nallur Kandaswamy Temple is a sacred place, and it helps you learn about the Tamilian culture and its various forms. The Nallur Kandaswamy temple is located in the town of Nallur, Jaffna. At the main entrance, there is a golden-ochre gopuram, built in the traditional dravidan style.
Plan your trip.
There are more amazing places to visit in Jaffna. And comfortable resorts and hotels are there in Jaffna, like Fox Resorts Jaffna, Jaffna Heritage Hotel, North Gate Hotel, Jetwing Jaffna, and more. You can visit Jaffna from January to September, because it is the best time to enjoy your holiday during this period.
Finally, you are never going to be disappointed by your tour of Jaffna, which offers an amazing experience exploring historic sites and beaches. Your Jaffna holiday journey will be a memorable adventure. Find your inspiring adventure with Explore. Our dedicated Vibes Group UK holiday experts innovate and create exciting and pioneering experiences.
