Is Jaffna worth visiting?
Yes, if you want to see a side of Sri Lanka most visitors miss. Jaffna’s language, food, temples and pace of life are distinctly Tamil, and the town has rebuilt steadily since the civil war ended in 2009.
It is a place of quiet lanes, bicycles, big temple festivals and some of the island’s best seafood. Allow 1–3 days to see the town and take a trip out to the islands.
How do I get to Jaffna?
The train from Colombo is the easiest way, taking about 6–8 hours on the Northern line; book reserved seats ahead. Buses run up the A9 through Anuradhapura and Vavuniya and take about 8–10 hours, often overnight.
From Anuradhapura it is about 3–4 hours by train or road. In Jaffna, tuk-tuks and bicycles are the easiest way to get around; agree fares first.
What can I do in Jaffna?
Most sights are in or near town, and the islands need a day. Start early to beat the heat.
- Visit Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, Jaffna’s great Hindu temple, at an evening puja.
- Walk the ramparts of Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese and rebuilt by the Dutch.
- See the rebuilt Jaffna Public Library.
- Take the ferry from Kurikadduwan jetty to Nainativu, with its Hindu and Buddhist temples.
- Eat Jaffna crab curry and odiyal kool, a seafood soup thickened with palmyra flour.
- Swim at Casuarina Beach on Karainagar, reached by causeway.
- Play the Srilor audio story when you arrive; the first chapter is free.
When is the best time to visit Jaffna?
January to September is the best window, and it is hottest from May to August. March is dry and quiet across the north.
From about October the north-east monsoon builds, and December brings the heaviest rain. The Nallur festival, usually around July and August, is busy and colourful, so book beds ahead.
How much does it cost to visit Jaffna?
There is no general admission fee for the town. Temples welcome donations, and ferries, guides and museums cost extra, so check before you go.
- Dress modestly in town and cover up fully at temples.
- Carry cash; outside hotels it is still the norm.
- Bring a hat and water, because Jaffna is hotter than the south.
- Learn ‘vanakkam’ for hello and ‘nandri’ for thank you.
What should I wear to Nallur Kovil?
Men must remove their shirts before entering, and everyone removes their shoes. Women should cover shoulders and knees; a long skirt or sarong is ideal.
Photography is not allowed inside, so keep your camera in your bag. Visit at an evening puja to hear the drums and bells and see the temple at its liveliest, and ask locally for the times.
Jaffna: quick answers
How do I get from Colombo to Jaffna?
The train is easiest, about 6–8 hours on the Northern line. Buses take longer and often run overnight.
Is Jaffna safe for tourists?
Yes. The civil war ended in 2009, and Jaffna is calm and welcoming. Use normal city precautions and dress modestly.
How many days do you need in Jaffna?
1–3 days: one for the town, Nallur and the fort, one for the islands, and a third for the coast or more food.
What is Jaffna famous for?
Nallur Kovil, its Dutch fort, the islands and its food, especially crab curry, odiyal kool and Jaffna mangoes.