Why Jaffna will steal your heart
Travel to the far north of Sri Lanka and you'll discover a completely different side of the island. Jaffna is the heart of Sri Lankan Tamil culture, with its own language, traditions, architecture and some of the most delicious cooking in the country.
The highlight is the magnificent Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, with a golden tower and beautiful interiors. During its annual festival, usually in August, thousands of devotees gather for colourful processions.
Explore the star-shaped Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese and rebuilt by the Dutch, and wander through the busy markets. Try the local specialities, including the famous, fiery Jaffna crab curry, spicy odiyal kool (a seafood broth) and sweet, fragrant Jaffna mangoes.
Causeways connect Jaffna to a string of peaceful islands. On Delft Island, you'll find wild ponies, coral-stone walls, an old Dutch fort and deserted beaches. Nainativu is home to important Hindu and Buddhist temples. Along the coast, lagoons and palmyra palms create beautiful, peaceful landscapes.
Few foreign visitors reach Jaffna, so the welcome is warm and genuine. It's a rewarding extension for travellers who want to see a different side of Sri Lanka.
