A DAY TRIP FROM JAFFNA

The Magic of Mannar

Encounter an Enchanting Island in the Northern Peninsula

Mannar, a largely unexplored gem in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, is situated on the island’s northwestern coast. A day trip from Jaffna to the peninsula of Mannar offers a romantic getaway off the beaten track for couples eager to discover the lesser-known treasures of this beautiful island nation. Its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique attractions allow the magic of Mannar to surprise you with an immersive experience beyond conventional tourist routes.

Highlights

Mannar Island and Adams Bridge
Mannar Lagoon Bird Sanctuary and its Flamingo Migration ( September - December)
The Doric
Mannar Fort
Giants Tank (Yoda Wewa)

Mannar is two hours from Jaffna by car and accessible via a causeway from the mainland. November to March are the best times to visit, with lower temperatures and the chance to witness the famous flamingo migration in the Mannar Lagoon.

Lush greenery and sandy beaches cover Mannar’s 50 square kilometres. Adam’s Bridge, located at the western tip of the island in Talaimannar, is a popular attraction. This bridge is a shallow chain of limestone shoals that intermittently connects Mannar to Rameswaram Island in India. Legend has it that this was once a land bridge between the two countries and is also mentioned in the Indian epic Ramayana.

Couples will discover romance amid the white sands, swaying palm trees, and the calls of gulls and terns. Explore the vibrant fishing villages, marvel at the ancient baobab trees (native to Africa and believed to have been introduced by Arab merchants over 800 years ago), and wander through the ruins of colonial-era buildings left behind by Portuguese, Dutch, and British rulers. Once essentially closed off to tourists during the civil war years, Mannar gradually reclaims its status as an exciting and secluded part of Sri Lanka that invites exploration.

Mannar holds special significance for the Catholics of Sri Lanka, who revere the most sacred shrine, Madhu or St. Mary’s Church, for its blessings of healing, solace, and refuge.

Blessed with numerous attractions, Mannar, once isolated during the lengthy civil war, is now a bustling tourist destination.
The best months to explore Mannar are between September and January, when you can see hundreds of colourful flamingoes gracing the lagoon waters.

Thanthirimale

Thanthirimale, an ancient village roughly an hour and thirty minutes from Mannar, is an ideal stop for couples seeking an immersive experience of Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage. This charming village features well-preserved Buddhist temples, including the Thanthirimale Stupa and the Sri Maha Bodhi plant, a tree sapling under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

The Doric at Arippu

The Doric Bungalow, or The Doric, is a must-visit for couples travelling to Mannar. Originally constructed between 1801 and 1804, this impressive residence was the official home of Sri Lanka's first governor under British rule, Frederick North. Today, The Doric is a well-known tourist destination admired for its architectural splendour. The building's design reflects the ancient Greek Doric Order, sure to impress history and architecture enthusiasts. Stroll through the very halls where colonial power once thrived!

Baobab Tree

Experience a touch of Africa amidst the beauty of Sri Lanka! Mannar boasts the oldest of just 30 Baobab trees in the country (with another giant residing within Wilpattu National Park). These green giants, native to Africa, stand out for their unusual shape. Dubbed "Elephant Trees" by locals due to their rough, elephant skin-like bark, Baobabs hold a captivating presence. The Mannar baobab, located about 1.2 kilometres from the main town, is impressive, reaching a height of 25 feet and a staggering circumference of 63 feet. Legend has it that Arab traders brought these ancient wonders to Sri Lanka centuries ago, and a 2003 study estimated this particular tree to be around 800 years old. Due to their rarity and historical significance, all Baobab trees in Sri Lanka are protected.

Mannar Fort

This impressive structure, known as ‘Mark Kai’ in Tamil and ‘Mannaram Balakotuwa’ in Sinhalese, is a testament to Sri Lanka's rich colonial past. Built by the Portuguese in 1560, the fort was later captured by the Dutch, who meticulously rebuilt it over nearly four decades, finalising its current form in 1696. After the Dutch surrendered to the British in 1795, the fort experienced another power transfer. Today, the Sri Lanka Railway Authority preserves this historical landmark.

Mannar Fort's unique square design boasts four prominent bastions, offering a glimpse into past military strategies. The fort's strategic location, linking mainland Sri Lanka to Mannar Island via a bridge, further deepens its historical significance. A visit to Mannar Fort is a fascinating journey for couples seeking a blend of romance and historical intrigue.

Yoda Wewa (Giant’s Tank)

Explore a serene oasis at Yoda Wewa or Giant's Tank. This stunning reservoir, situated just 16 kilometres from Mannar, is an engineering marvel that has endured for centuries. Yoda Wewa is one of the largest tanks on the island and is rich in history. King Dhatusena (459-477 A.D.) is credited with its construction.

Yoda Wewa's vast expanse of water reflects the Sri Lankan sky, creating a picture-perfect. Easily accessible by road and rail, this hidden gem allows you to relax and reconnect with nature, surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape. You will also encounter a myriad of birdlife that call the tank home.

Adam’s Bridge

Steeped in myth and legend, Adam's Bridge, also known as Rama's Bridge or Rama Setu, is a fascinating chain of limestone shoals that links Mannar Island in Sri Lanka to Pamban (Rameswaram) Island off the coast of Tamil Nadu, India. Geological evidence suggests it may have once served as a land connection, and the Hindu epic Ramayana even mentions this bridge, making it a sacred site. For adventurous couples, a boat trip across the calm seas to explore the islands provides a closer look at this natural marvel.

Thiruketheeswaram Kovil

Thiruketheeswaram Kovil, also known as Ketheeswaram Temple or Tirukketsvaram, is the spiritual heart of Mannar. This ancient Hindu shrine, one of the oldest in Mannar, overlooks the historic Tamil port towns of Manthai and Kudiramalai in India and is a captivating landmark. While primarily a place of worship for devotees of Lord Shiva, the temple's rich history and architectural beauty entice explorers of all faiths. Join hands and wander through the centuries, experiencing this iconic destination’s tranquillity and cultural significance.

Mannar Bird Sanctuary

This vast nature sanctuary covers over 4,800 hectares and presents a symphony of sights and sounds. Featuring diverse ecosystems with tranquil lagoons and salt marshes, this bird paradise is home to more than 150 bird species, including majestic flamingos, from December to January. The sanctuary is a crucial stop for migratory birds, making it an excellent place to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle of nature.

The Magic of Mannar

Encounter an Enchanting Island in the Northern Peninsula

Our Favourites

The Sacred Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu

The Sacred Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu

Thanthirimale

Thanthirimale

The Doric at Arippu

The Doric at Arippu

Baobab Tree

Baobab Tree

Mannar Fort

Mannar Fort

Yoda Wewa (Giant’s Tank)

Yoda Wewa (Giant’s Tank)

Thiruketheeswaram Kovil

Thiruketheeswaram Kovil

Mannar Bird Sanctuary

Mannar Bird Sanctuary

Talaimannar Light House

Talaimannar Light House

Keeri Beach

Keeri Beach