THE ELEVEN BEST PLACES IN THE NORTH

Iconic Places in Jaffna

A Guide to Discovering the Peninsulas Gems

Jaffna, a beautiful town on Sri Lanka's northern tip, is a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty. The iconic places in Jaffna showcase the eleven best places to explore, curated by Honeymoon Guide editors. Renowned for its Tamil heritage and warm hospitality, Jaffna offers an unforgettable experience for couples seeking an authentic and romantic getaway. Here are our 11 most iconic places to visit in Jaffna for couples:

Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil (Nallur Kandaswamy Temple)

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant Hindu culture at the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a stunning temple dedicated to Lord Murugan.

The temple's foundation dates back to 948 AD, but invasions led to its relocation several times within Nallur. The present structure, built in 1749, features a five-story gopuram, or ornately carved tower, in the Dravidian architectural style. The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is an important Hindu temple in Sri Lanka's Jaffna district. It's a central part of the Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu identity, with similar temples built worldwide. The temple honours Lord Murugan, and every year, a grand festival takes place that lasts 25 days and features processions with the temple's deity and various elaborately decorated vehicles.

Tip: While at the Kovil, don’t miss out on enjoying a Jaffna Rio Ice Cream. A parlour that has achieved “cult” status in Jaffna.

Jaffna Fort

Step back in time to the Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Jaffna Fort, a majestic sentinel in Sri Lanka's northern city of Jaffna, whispers tales of a rich and tumultuous past. Initially built by the Portuguese, it transformed under Dutch and British rule, each era leaving its mark on the architectural style. Jaffna Fort served as a strategic stronghold, witnessing countless battles and power struggles throughout the centuries.

Today, the fort is a testament to Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. A harmonious blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architectural styles is evident in the imposing ramparts, intricate gateways, serene courtyards, and mighty bastions. Each element is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, offering visitors a glimpse into the fort's glorious past and the architectural prowess of its builders. Explore the ramparts, moat, and watchtowers, remnants of a bygone era.

Casuarina Beach

Casuarina Beach beckons with its serene atmosphere and pristine beauty. This 1.5km shoreline offers a peaceful escape, unlike southern beach hotspots. Clear, shallow waters lap at the fine, white sand, inviting you to relax and soak up the tranquillity.

Perfect for a refreshing dip in the calm waters, grab a snorkel and explore the underwater world. Relax under the shade of the Casuarina trees with a picnic lunch for two.

For the more active, paddleboarding and kayaking rentals are available. After a fun day, browse the local shops for souvenirs, crafts, and trinkets to take home a piece of your Casuarina Beach experience. With roadside stalls offering spicy street food snacks to beachside restaurants serving fresh seafood curries, there's something for everyone, including plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

Nainatheevu/Nagadeepa Island

Embark on a ferry ride to the sacred island of Nainatheevu (Nainativu), home to the revered Nagapooshani Amman and Nagadeepa Temple.

Nainativu Island boasts a rich tapestry of history, weaving together ancient beliefs, cultural significance, and religious devotion. This captivating island is found in the writings of the Greco-Roman geographer Ptolemy as early as the 1st century CE and is prominently featured in Tamil literature from the 6th century. These references depict Nainativu as a prominent landmark and spiritual sanctuary for centuries.

Nainativu was once home to the Nagas, a revered ancient Sri Lankan tribe known for their serpent worship. Their legacy lives on in the island's iconography. Snake imagery is woven into the very fabric of Nainativu, with statues and paintings of serpents adorning both the Buddhist and Hindu temples here.

Hindu Heritage: The Nagapooshani Amman Kovil

Nainativu's Hindu heart throbs at the magnificent Nagapooshani Amman Kovil, a temple dedicated to the goddess Parvati. The temple's foundation stretches back to ancient times and is even mentioned in chronicles as one of the 64 significant Shakti Peethas, major shrines dedicated to female deities. Reconstructed in the 18th century, the current structure is a powerful symbol of faith and a cornerstone of Hindu worship in the region.

Buddhist Sanctuary: Nagadeepa Purana Vihara

A mere 700 meters south of the principal Hindu temple and near the ferry landing point lies Nagadeepa Purana Vihara. This revered site is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist locations in Sri Lanka. Legend holds that Lord Buddha visited this spot over 2,000 years ago to settle a dispute between warring Naga kings. The temple boasts several distinctive features, including a large silver pagoda, massive stone carvings of Buddha's footprints, and statues of multi-headed serpents.

Dambakola Patuna

Explore the ancient ruins of Dambakola Patuna, believed to be the remnants of a submerged kingdom. Dambakola Patuna in Jaffna boasts a connection to Sri Lanka's Buddhist beginnings. In 250 BC, following the introduction of Buddhism by Mahinda Thero, his sister, Theri Sanghamitta, arrived here with a sacred Bo sapling under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. To commemorate this momentous occasion, King Devanampiya Tissa built the Jambukola Viharaya, where the sapling flourished into the revered Sri Maha Bodhi, one of the oldest historical trees on Earth. Eight additional shoots from the tree were also recorded as being planted nearby.

While time eroded the vihara's grandeur and the port's significance dwindled, Dambakola Patuna retains a profound relevance to Sri Lankan Buddhists. Today, the modern Sri Sangamitta Viharaya stands as a Buddhist landmark. Visiting here rewards you with a glimpse into Sri Lanka's ancient past and breathtaking panoramic views of the southern Indian coastline. Climb the fascinating limestone outcrop and marvel at the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Jaffna Public Library

The Jaffna Public Library, a short distance from Jaffna town, is more than just a place to borrow books-it's a poignant symbol of resilience. Built in 1933, it was once a literary giant in Asia, boasting over 97,000 treasures. Sadly, during Sri Lanka's civil conflict, the library was burned down in 1981, and its precious collection was lost.

Today, the library stands proudly once more, a testament to the power of knowledge. Though irreplaceable volumes were lost, the library has been reborn. The striking building beckons visitors with its Mughal influences and serene gardens. While the shelves may not hold the same ancient texts, they offer a wealth of local literature perfect for anyone wanting to delve deeper into Sri Lankan folklore, culture, cuisine, and more. Open from 9 am to 7 pm, the Jaffna Public Library offers a unique opportunity to learn about the past and connect with the present.

Kandarodai Temple/Kadurugoda Viharaya

Tucked away in the village of Kandarodai lies the Kadurugoda Viharaya, a hidden gem and one of the few remaining Buddhist temples in Jaffna. The Sri Lanka Army maintains the temple, which is declared a significant archaeological site.

Dating back to 307-267 BC, the Viharaya's construction coincides with the peak of Anuradhapura's power and the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka under King Devanampiya Tissa. Explore the ruins and marvel at the unique collection of 20 stupas, unlike elsewhere. These stupas, crafted from grey coral stone and adorned with mysterious patterns, are believed to enshrine the sacred relic remains of 60-80 enlightened “Arahat” or enlightened monks.

A group of monks' rediscovery of the viharaya in 1916 sparked curiosity, and excavations continue to unearth its secrets. If you're fascinated by ancient history and relish a touch of the unknown, the Kadurugoda Viharaya is a must-visit. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the ruins and allow this enigmatic site to weave its magic on you.

Keerimalai Naguleswaram Temple

A centuries-old Hindu landmark revered by devotees, this temple is part of the Pancha Ishwarams, a collection of five Shiva temples. It holds immense significance for the island's Hindu community. Originally known as the Thirutambaleswaram Kovil, it's also one of the oldest Hindu sites in Sri Lanka's Northern Province.

Steeped in legend, the temple's name and location are intertwined with fascinating tales. One story speaks of a sage named Nagula Muni, transformed by age and meditation to resemble a mongoose. Bathing in the nearby Keerimalai hot springs (Keeri Malai meaning "Mongoose Hill" in Tamil) restored him to his human form. Out of gratitude, he built the temple on this sacred spot. Another legend credits a Pandiyan princess, cured of a horse-shaped head by the spring's waters, with the temple's construction. The Ramayana is also mentioned here, with Lord Rama believed to have visited to cleanse himself after defeating Ravana. These rich narratives add to the temple's spiritual and historical significance. Another significant Hindu temple, Keerimalai Naguleswaram Temple, is situated amidst serene surroundings. Pay homage to the deities and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Tip: Combine this visit with a healing dip at the Keeimalai Hot Springs, #10 on this list.

Explore Jaffna’s Markets

Indulge in a sensory overload at the bustling local markets.

Jaffna's Main Market

Wander the vibrant streets and soak in the sights and sounds-friendly vendors selling fresh fruits, colourful Jaffna sweets, and traditional utensils displayed in open-air shops. The atmosphere is a delightful mix, where you can discover unique souvenirs and local specialities alongside fresh produce.

Jaffna Fish Market

For seafood enthusiasts, the Jaffna Fish Market offers a truly immersive experience. Early mornings are the busiest time, with fishermen bringing fresh catches from nearby coasts. The market buzzes with activity as vendors display various seafood - different types of fish, prawns, crabs, lobsters, and more. Freshness is guaranteed, as seafood forms a cornerstone of Jaffna's cuisine. Engage with the locals, learn about their fishing traditions, and perhaps even sample some delicious seafood dishes nearby! The Jaffna Fish Market offers a glimpse into local culture and a chance to experience the vibrant spirit of Jaffna.

Tip: Take the chance to sample some of Jaffna's famous street food!

Keerimalai Hot Springs

Escape the ordinary at the Keerimalai Hot Springs, a unique experience steeped in local legend. Located about 20 kilometres from Jaffna town, these natural springs offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate in a serene setting. Legend tells the story of a Pandyan princess who regained her human form after bathing here. While the truth of such tales remains a mystery, the springs hold a special place with the locals.

The springs offer the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the warm mineral waters, believed to have healing properties.

Keerimalai has separate bathing pools for males and females. Appreciate cultural sensitivity and marvel at the architectural differences between the open-air men's and enclosed women's pools.

Charty Beach

Escape the crowds and find paradise at Charty Beach, about 15km from Jaffna's city centre. This pristine stretch of white sand boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for a swim or a relaxing afternoon basking in the sun. Swaying palm and coconut trees line the shore, creating a picture-perfect tropical scene.

Charty Beach offers a tranquil escape without sacrificing comfort. Small huts provide shade when needed, while nearby vendors offer a chance to sample some Jaffna street food. After a refreshing dip in the ocean, changing rooms ensure a hassle-free transition back to relaxation. Charty Beach is the ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, offering stunning scenery, serenity, and all the amenities you need for an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

With its rich tapestry of culture, religion, stunning beaches, and bustling markets, Jaffna offers a unique and unforgettable experience for couples seeking romance. Explore ancient temples, lose yourselves in the vibrant energy of local markets, or soak up the sun on pristine beaches. Jaffna isn’t just a destination; it’s an invitation to encounter the charm of Sri Lanka’s captivating north.