Start your Jaffna tour with a visit to the island of Nagadeepa. A 4 square km island packs a punch of cultural highlights in one island. The visit is a proper cultural induction for Jaffna, starting with a ferry ride with locals.
In Jaffna Town, visit the city’s pinnacle, the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil. The Kovil is famous for hosting the longest festival in Sri Lanka, the Nallur festival, which lasts 25 days in August. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of War, Love, and Beauty, this is an exquisite piece of Dravidian architecture.
Enter a world of colour at the bustling Jaffna market. Filled with all sorts of assortments, food and specialities only found in the North, the market is a bustling cultural immersion.
Sit down to an authentic Tamil feast at a host of local restaurants, roadside cafes, bakeries and eateries. The food scene in Jaffna is different from the rest of Sri Lanka, with fresh seafood often taking centre stage.
First built by the Portuguese around 1625 A.D., it became the last bastion to fall to the Dutch invaders, who captured and extensively renovated the fort. After 400 years, it is one of Asia’s greatest Dutch Forts.
We saved the best highlight for last! Charty Beach on Kayts Island is a shallow, peaceful beach with soft waves and a slow pace. It is a secluded haven of soft white sand and shallow warm waters lined with palm and coconut trees, perfect for a sunset swim and stroll.
Sit at a rooftop bar and enjoy the clear northern skies with a cool beer and an ethnic northern seafood delicacy. Don’t leave Jaffna without trying their very own Odiyal Kool, an aromatic and flavourful seafood broth only found in Jaffna, Jaffna Crab Curry, or Mutton curry.
Fall in love with the island’s northern charm with this curated tour of the highlights, perfect for couples who want to enjoy a day out in Jaffna.