Jaffna is considered to be the capital city of the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. The city being the 12th largest city in Sri Lanka is popular around the country and the world for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Nallur which is known as city’s suburb had been the capital city of the 4th century medieval Jaffna Kingdom. Population wise it was second to the commercial City of Colombo prior to the civil war that lasted for 30 years. The ideal way to define the city is that it is the cradle for many historical sites such as the Jaffna Library which was built during the Dutch Colonial period in the 17th century and ancient religious temples.
Top 09 Sights in Jaffna City
The Jaffna city tour covers number of historical and cultural sites such as
- Jaffna Library without any doubt is considered to be most visited, popular and significant historical and prime place in Jaffna. It was built by Alfred Duraiappah, the Mayor of Jaffna in 1959. The architecture of the library goes along with the Indo-Sarcenic style. The library held its prestige as the biggest library with 97000 books and manuscripts in Asia before it was burnt down during the civil war that took place in 1981.
- Nallur Temple is an ancient temple situated in Jaffna. Oceans of pilgrims from all parts of the world visit this temple. The temple is famous for its golden arch and the extended Gopuram. The initial temple which was built during the regime of Tamil Kings was destroyed by the Portuguese and later in the 18th century it was renovated or rebuilt. Since the origin of the temple traces back to 18th century and for its historical value, it is considered to be the primary place to hold important religious festival.
- Jaffna Fort is another important and significant place in Jaffna city. The Fort is also famous around the city as the Fortress of Our Lady of Miracles in Jaffna. The Fort was built in 1618 by the Portuguese later it was conquered by the Dutch in 1658 and British in 1795 respectively. The city was captured by LTTE during the civil war and recaptured by the Sri Lankan Army in 1995.
- Kandarodei Temple is another significant and stunned tourist destination in Jaffna town. This ancient temple is famous for its historical and archeological factors. It is believed that the temple was built during the Anurdhapura era and remaining of the temple clearly manifests the rich ancient history of the temple and archeological skills of our ancestors.
- Casuarine Beach is one of the famous and the most attractive places in Jaffna and even in Sri Lanka. The white sand and Cassorina trees along the beach have given a splendid view, add glamour and beauty to the beach.
- Keernalain or Naguleeswaram Temple is one of the most visited Temple in Jaffna. It is famous due the river which flows around the temple and its miraculous power of healing sickness and illness.
- DambakolaPatuna is a historical place. The origin of this traces back to 2000 years and it was one of the ancient port in Sri Lanka. it is believed that Sanghamitta : the daughter of King Ashoka arrived at this port with the intention of propagating Buddhism in Sri Lanka and she brought the holy Sapling of Bodhi tree.
- Charty Beach is another beautiful place in Jaffna. The clean Beach and Peaceful environment attracts oceans of tourists and locals throughout the year. A great place to visit with your family, friends and enjoy the nature.
- SangileanThoopu is one of the most important places as it was the palace of the Last Tamil King who ruled Jaffna Kingdom. The antique bathing pool and the remnant of the royal palace are still can be explored.
The best and ideal time to visit Jaffna city is that during the season of Hindu festivals. Tourists will be able to explore the typical Hindu and Tamil culture which is unique to Jaffna. The city is full of breathtaking sights and multiple tourists’ destinations which can be explored and enjoyed by tourists. The tasty of the street food is fantastic and if I try once you will be tempted to have it again and again. Local people are so friendly and ever-willing to help and assist you in whatever way possible. Do not forget to post for photos at important and historical places; take photographs of your epic journey.
NB: please bear in your mind that above all the historical and cultural places cannot be covered in a day tour. Thus, you have the opportunity to select 5 – 7 places according to your discretion and we promise to try our best in order to cater your choices. The locations and destinations can be changed basing on the transport mode that you choose to do the one-day tour. We provide both TukTuk and Taxis.
