Things To Do
in Jaffna

Visit Nagadeepa Island for its historical and religious significance, as well as its beautiful scenery and serene atmosphere.

Explore the historical Jaffna Fort and take in its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Take a trip to Delft Island to see its unique natural beauty, including wild horses, ancient ruins, and picturesque landscapes.

Relax and rejuvenate at Keerimalai Springs, known for its natural spring water and tranquil surroundings.

The bustling Jaffna Market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, spices, and street food. It's a great place to sample local snacks like vadai (savory fritters), murukku (crispy snacks), and palmyrah candy.

Along the picturesque Casuarina Beach, you'll find an array of food stalls offering an assortment of seafood delights such as grilled squid, prawn fritters, and crab cutlets, providing an authentic culinary experience by the sea.

Tipping is generally practiced in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, particularly in restaurants and for various services such as tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff. In restaurants, a service charge may sometimes be included in the bill, but it is still common to leave a small additional tip for good service, usually around 5-10% of the total bill.

In Jaffna, Sri Lanka, cash is widely used for most transactions. Credit and debit cards are becoming more common, especially in larger establishments, but it is still advisable to carry cash for smaller businesses and transactions. It's important to note that some places may not accept cards, so it's always best to have some cash on hand. Additionally, it's customary to negotiate prices for goods and services, particularly in local markets and with independent vendors.

Best time to visit for warm, sunny weather and minimal rainfall. Ideal for exploring historic sites, such as Jaffna Fort and Nallur Kandaswamy Temple.

Transitional period with some rainfall. Good for experiencing local culture, festivals, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Wet season with heavy rainfall. May not be ideal for outdoor activities, but a good time to witness the lush greenery and agricultural practices.

Another dry period, perfect for outdoor adventures, beach activities, and enjoying the serene beauty of Jaffna and its surroundings.

While primarily a cultural site, the area surrounding this historic temple offers some paths that can be used for light hiking and exploration.

Located in a serene environment, the trails around this sacred site provide opportunities for peaceful walks and light hikes.

The coastal area near Point Pedro has a scenic route that can be hike along the beach and cliffs, offering stunning views of the coastline.

Though primarily a wetland area, there are paths alongside the lagoon that can be explored for nature walks and light hiking.

Located in Katunayake, near Colombo, this is the main international airport in Sri Lanka, approximately 338 km from Jaffna.

Situated in Mattala, this is a relatively new international airport located about 472 km from Jaffna.

Located in Tiruchirapalli, India, this airport is approximately 251 km from Jaffna and serves as an international gateway to southern India.

Located in Chennai, India, this major international airport is about 405 km from Jaffna.

The majority ethnic group in Jaffna, comprising about 70-80% of the population, predominantly Hindu.

A significant minority in Jaffna, primarily consisting of Moors, who practice Islam.

Includes both Catholic and Protestant communities, representing a smaller percentage of the population.

A minority ethnic group in Jaffna, primarily present due to migration and resettlement in the region.

While Jaffna's cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries offering dishes like traditional dosa, idiyappam (string hoppers), and a variety of vegetable curries. Some recommended places include Temple Road Vegetarian Hotel and Indian Coffee House.

Those seeking gluten-free options can enjoy dishes like sambols (spice-infused condiments), appam (rice pancakes), and certain seafood and vegetable preparations. It's advisable to communicate specific dietary requirements to the restaurant staff for a tailored dining experience.