Jaffna is a city on the northern tip of Sri Lanka. Nallur Kandaswamy is a huge Hindu temple with golden arches and an ornate gopuram tower.
Jaffna is a city located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, situated on the Jaffna Peninsula and approximately 400 km North of Colombo. Jaffna can be accessed by car (approximately 7 hours from Colombo) train ( daily service which takes approximately 8 hours) by bus ( daily services ) and by air ( Cinnamon Air).
It’s historically and culturally significant, serving as the administrative center of the Northern Province. The city has a rich heritage, with influences from various civilizations, including the Tamil, Sinhalese, Portuguese (colonized in 1619) , Dutch (colonized in 1658) , and British ( colonized in 1796)
The Jaffna Peninsula is the heartland of the Tamil-speaking people in Sri Lanka and is often considered the cultural capital of the Sri Lankan Tamils. The unique culture is influenced by South Indian Traditions which reflects in the language, religion (Hinduism) and even the spices used in curries. The region has faced significant challenges due to the civil war that ravaged Sri Lanka for decades, with Jaffna being at the center of much of the conflict.
Jaffna is known for its unique architecture and cuisine. The city has several notable landmarks, including spectacular Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, which is one of the most significant Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, and Jaffna Fort, a historic fort built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. The months of April – May and August – September are extremely hot and should be avoided by travelers.
Despite the challenges it has faced, Jaffna is slowly rebuilding and revitalizing its economy and infrastructure. Tourism is also gradually picking up in the region, with visitors coming to explore its cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and unique cuisine.
Explore the historic Jaffna Fort, an intriguing piece of architecture, which was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later expanded by the Dutch and British. Based on the extensive work carried out by the Dutch it as considered one of the best Dutch Forts in Asia.
It offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area including the lagoon. During the Portuguese occupation, the fort was called ‘Fortress of Our Lady of Miracles of Jafanapatão’, a name derived from the neighboring church dedicated to Virgin Mary.
When the British occupied Ceylon the Fort remined a British garrison until the country received independence in 1948.
Situated approximately 3km from Jaffna, this iconic Hindu temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Murugan. This temple known for its impressive architecture, intricate carvings, vibrant colours and religious ceremonies is one of the most significant Hindu Temples in Sri Lanka. Several Hindu temples built across the world carry the same name in honour of the temple in Sri Lanka.
The temple hosts a religious festival each year during the month of August which goes on for around 25 days. A significant feature of this festival is the devotees who have their bodies pierced with hooks with no signs of pain which is contributed to the immense faith in the Hindu god.
Visitors are requested to respect the customs and beliefs of the devotees and dress appropriately when visiting the temple.
Located approximately 2 km from Jaffna town, visitors can discover the rich literary heritage of Jaffna at the Jaffna Public Library. Built in 1933, it was once one of the largest libraries in Asia with a vast collection of books and manuscripts totaling almost 100,000.
The library has been rebuilt since its destruction in 1981 due to a fire which occurred during the civil war. The library was renovated in 2001 and several new books and manuscripts were added. However, some of the old books and manuscripts could not be replaced.
Today the library remains an architectural structure of significance standing tall in the city of Jaffna with dignity and pride.
Located in the Northern coast of Jaffna, close to Palaly , the Keerimalail hot Springs is a natural spring believed to have curative properties. The water which flows through the fissures of the carbonated rocks acquires chemical components which are considered to have therapeutic benefits. The area has been converted into a bathing tank, which is separated from the springs only by a wall and manages to have fresh water despite the close proximity to the sea.
It is believed that this underground source of water is connected to the Nilavarai bottomless well which is located approximately 10 km away. Apart from the hot springs Keeramalai is also known for its cultural significance. Nearby, you can find the Keeramalai Naguleswaram Kovil, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the area.
If you are visiting Jaffna, Keeramalai hot springs are definitely worth adding to your itinerary for a unique and therapeutic experience amidst nature’s beauty.
The northernmost point of Sri Lanka is referred to as Point Pedro or Sakkotai Cape It is located approximately 33 km form Jaffna and faces the Bay of Bengal. The name is derived from the Portuguese name Punta das Pedras which means Stony or Rocky Point
Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and visit the iconic Point Pedro Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the India’s southern coastline in the distance on a clear day.
Located around 30 k towards Kytes island from Jaffna town, visitors need to take a boat ride to Nagadeepa or Nainativu Island to reach the Nagadeepa Vihara.
The Nagadeepa Temple or Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya, is a prominent Buddhist temple which holds great significant historical and religious importance for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world.
According to the Buddhist manuscripts, Nagadeepa Viharaya is believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha during his third and final visit to Sri Lanka, approximately 2,500 years ago. It is said that during this visit, the Buddha resolved a dispute between two Naga kings, Chulodara and Mahodara, who were fighting over a gem-studded throne.
The temple complex includes several structures, such as the main shrine, stupa, and various ancillary buildings. Pilgrims visit Nagadeepa Viharaya throughout the year, especially during religious festivals and full moon days.
Apart from its religious significance, Nagadeepa Viharaya also attracts visitors for its serene surroundings and picturesque location.
The temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Sri Lanka and serves as an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists seeking spiritual solace and enlightenment.
Located 15 km form Jaffna, Charty Beach, is known for its picturesque, and pristine white sands and calm waters, serene atmosphere and beautiful coastline dotted with coconut and palmyra tress. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying picturesque sunsets.
If those wishing to get a tan need to cool off ,you can take shelter in one of the palm huts located on the beach
If you travel to Jaffna the cuisine known for its unique flavors and spice blends have to be sampled. Try dishes such as crab curry, Jaffna-style dosa, and seafood specialties prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Seafood – Given its coastal location, seafood plays a significant role in Jaffna cuisine. Fish, crab, prawns, and cuttlefish are commonly used in various dishes.
Vegetarian food – Jaffna cuisine also features a wide array of vegetarian dishes, often made with locally grown vegetables such as brinjal (eggplant), drumstick, okra, and various leafy greens.
Spices- Similar to many South Indian cuisines, Jaffna cuisine is characterized by its use of spices. Common spices include coriander, cumin, fenugreek, curry leaves, and dried red chilies.
Rice and Curry – Rice is a staple food in Jaffna cuisine, and it’s usually served with an array of curries, chutneys, and pickles. Rice-based dishes like idiyappam (string hoppers), dosai, and vadai are also popular.
Palmyrah – The Palmyrah palm tree is abundant in the Jaffna region, and various parts of the tree are used in cooking. Palmyrah flour is used to make traditional dishes such as steamed rice cake, while the sap is used to make sweet treats like palm jaggery.
Signature dishes – Jaffna curry is a signature dish of the region, known for its rich, spicy flavor. It’s often made with a combination of meat, seafood, or vegetables, cooked in a fragrant blend of spices and coconut milk.
Chutneys – Jaffna cuisine includes a variety of chutneys and pickles made from ingredients like mango, lime, and garlic. These condiments add a burst of flavor to meals.
Jaffna has its own selection of sweets and desserts, such as thalagam (a sweet made from rice flour, jaggery, and coconut milk), paniyaram (rice flour dumplings), and kesari (a semolina-based sweet).
Overall, Jaffna cuisine offers a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and aromas, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the region.
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