Jaffna

Jaffna is the capital of the Northern Province of Sri Lanka.
It is about 396 km from Colombo and can be accessed by road, train, or flight.
Jaffna International Airport (JAF) offers limited domestic and international flights.
The Northern Railway Line connects Jaffna to Colombo via the Yal Devi Express train.

Jaffna has a dry tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25-34°C.
The best time to visit is January to September (dry season).
The monsoon season (October to December) brings heavy rainfall.

Nallur Kandaswamy Temple – A significant Hindu temple with a rich history.
Jaffna Fort – A well-preserved colonial-era fort built by the Portuguese in 1618.
Nagadeepa Temple & Nainativu Island – A sacred Buddhist site linked to Lord Buddha’s visit.
Keerimalai Hot Springs – A natural spring believed to have healing properties.
Casuarina Beach – A beautiful white sand beach known for its shallow waters.
Jaffna Public Library – A historical library with cultural significance.
Delft Island – Famous for its wild horses and Dutch colonial ruins.

Jaffna has a strong Tamil heritage with a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and colonial influences.
It was historically ruled by the Jaffna Kingdom (13th–17th century) before colonial occupation.
Traditional festivals like Nallur Festival (August-September) attract thousands of pilgrims.
The region is known for its distinct Tamil cuisine, including Jaffna crab curry, odiyal kool, and palmyrah-based products.

Island hopping – Visit smaller islands like Delft, Nainativu, and Kayts.
Cycling tours – Explore Jaffna’s streets, temples, and hidden villages on a bicycle.
Local markets – Jaffna’s markets offer unique handicrafts, palmyrah products, and fresh seafood.

Jaffna’s tourism industry has grown significantly after the end of the Sri Lankan Civil War (2009).
The government and private sector are investing in infrastructure, hotels, and tourism services.
Eco-tourism and heritage tourism are emerging trends in the district.