Jaffna is one of the most unique cities in Sri Lanka, located on the very northern tip. It only opened its doors to tourism in 2009, so it still feels significantly untouched and off the beaten path, especially compared to the usual tourist spots. We particularly loved how much influence from India is here, which you can see on the streets and in the food. Find out our favorite things to do, places to eat, and where to stay with this complete guide.
Best Things to do in Jaffna
There are so many memorable things to do in Jaffna, and a visit of 2-3 days is perfect to get a feel for the city. Remember, you will need some extra time on your Sri Lanka route as itโs a little dislocated from the usual tourist spots.
1. Visit the Local Market
To start your Jaffna experience, blend yourself into local life at the market. We found everyone to be so positively surprised to see our faces; from the moment we began talking with vendors, they instantly opened up. Buy some fruit and start a conversation with these lovely people.
2. Relax at the Beach and a Natural Pool
Jaffna is one of the busier cities in Sri Lanka, but it’s also one that is less visited by tourists. It’s a shame because we found so many incredible things to do here!
One of the highlights was our trip to Kankesanthurai Beach, home to crystal clear waters and soft white sand. It’s only a 25-minute drive from the city and the perfect way to escape the heat.
After the beach, head over to the Keerimalai Pond, a breathtaking natural swimming pool. This is a great option if you don’t feel like swimming in the ocean that day.
Getting there: A full tuk-tuk day trip will cost you between 750 and 1500 LKR. You can also rent a motorbike in town and explore the coastlines on your own. I really recommend doing this, as having the freedom to explore on your own terms is unbeatable!
3. Visit the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple
This beautiful Hindu Temple is a 10-minute drive from the city center, and it was a real highlight of Jaffna! While the exterior is the most impressive, you can also visit the interior of the red-colored temple (just remember to take your shoes off).
Tip: Visiting in August? You’ll get to experience the elaborate 25-day colorful Nallur festival, one of the most important festivals in Sri Lanka! Learn more about the festival and other events here.
4. Eat Indian-Influenced Food
While we knew Sri Lanka neighbored India, we didn’t know that Jaffna would have so much Indian influence โ far more than the rest of the country, because of its proximity. The best way to experience this for yourself is through the delicious food! We tried so many excellent restaurants during our visit, but our favorite was Mangos for their Thali. You’ll be offered 10 small bowls with different flavors + rice. (Here is the exact location)
Tip: Hannah is a massive ice-cream fan and just a 30-minute walk from Mangos is Rio Ice Cream. They have many flavors, but be warned; this is not your Italian gelato. It’s more like an American sundae with various flavors, candies, and syrups. Sri Lankan people love their sweets. :)
However, for the most local experience, we recommend visiting Malayan Cafe, which is near the market. This bakery-like Indian place serves all kinds of bread on a banana leaf. You will see 99% locals here, and itโs busy throughout the whole day.
5. Visit One of the Local Islands
One very popular thing to do in Jaffna is to visit one of the local islands. There are two popular islands. Nainativu Island can be visited by a short boat trip from the Kurikadduwan Jetty. Visit the temple or do an island tour.
The second island is Delft Island, named after a city in the Netherlands. Here you will see wild horses, an old Portuguese Fort. The boat trip from Jaffna takes about 1 hour, and there are no places to buy snacks or drinks on this island, so taking food and drinks is recommended.
6. See the Public Library and Clock Tower
For some more sightseeing in town, visit the old public library in the center of Jaffna. Nearby is the clock tower, which was built to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales (who later became King Edward VII of England).
7. See the Dutch Fort
Walking distance from the public library is the old Dutch Fort. Although it was built in 1618 by the Portuguese, it was later taken over by the Dutch. We think it’s so important to learn about the turbulent colonial history in Sri Lanka, so we recommend a visit.
The star-shaped fort is excellent for a quick walkthrough or seeing the sunset from the seaside. The views of the Jaffna Lagoon are beautiful!
Where to Stay in Jaffna
Jaffna is relatively small for a city, but most guesthouses and hotels are situated a little outside of the center. Tuk Tuks or taxis (we recommend the Pickme app) can take you easily around Jaffna, meaning anywhere you stay, you’ll be located close to the top things to do.
Because the northern city is less popular on the average Sri Lanka route, accommodation is also far cheaper than in other destinations in the country! (See all hotels in Jaffna)
Tip: Jetwing Hotels are one of the leading hotel chains in Sri Lanka. We stayed at their property in Jaffna, which is modern and offers fantastic facilities. There’s also a beautiful rooftop bar, where you can get great city views (you don’t have to be a guest to use this). Reserve your table in advance here.
Getting to Jaffna
Colombo to Jaffna
Getting from Colombo to Jaffna is a long 8 hours + car drive. It is better to add one or two stops in between. The first stop can either be Dambulla or Sigiriya, and the second stop is Anuradhapura. From Dambulla, itโs a 5-hour drive, and from Anuradhapura, it’s about 4 hours.
Otherwise, the train is a great option! There are direct trains from Colombo Fort Station or Maradana Station, and the journey takes about 6.5-7 hours.
Jaffna to Trincomalee
After your trip, we recommend continuing on to the beautiful coastal town of Trincomalee (4 hours’ drive). You can either hire a private driver or rent a car.
By bus: The cheapest option is to go by night bus with a change in Dambulla; the journey takes about 6.5 hours. There also seems to be the number 88 bus, which is a direct option, but ask for the times since these can change quite often.
Best Time to Visit Jaffna
The great thing about Jaffna is that it has good weather year-round! However, December to March is the most comfortable weather-wise, with less chance of rain.
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The journey also takes you past the infamous Elephant Pass, a slip of land connecting the Jaffna peninsula to the rest of Sri Lanka, which played a critical role in many battles throughout the the civil war. It is possible to get from Colombo to Jaffna via an overnight bus, however we recommend breaking up the journey up by stopping in Kandy or Dambulla overnight.