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Explore Jaffna – Culture, Cuisine & Northern Sri Lanka

The Citadel Defending the North

The untouched citadel in the northernmost region of the country, Jaffna, is unlike any other location in Sri Lanka, being the heartland of the Sri Lankan Tamil community. While the journey there might be long, you are in for an experience like no other—one steeped in culture, heritage, and history. Once caught in the crossfire of a civil war, Jaffna has emerged with its unyielding spirit. Possessing the charm and nostalgia of a bygone era, it is a deeply cultural place that continues to uphold age-old traditions, with a strong Hindu influence evident in its customs, music, and architecture. Indeed, some of its most iconic attractions are its majestic Hindu temples, such as the revered Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, and the seasonal Hindu festivals that are a spectacular display of energy, colours, and sounds. The climate is generally sunny and dry with its signature palmyrah trees dotting the flat terrain and buildings distinctively adorned with intricate designs and carvings. The residents are a tough and hardy bunch, being incredibly self-reliant, growing their own produce, and selling it in bustling local markets. For those looking for destinations aside from the usual tourist spots, Jaffna will reward you with an inimitable experience.

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Points of Interest

Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, this kovil is one of the most famous landmarks in Jaffna.
Jaffna Fort: A Dutch-era fort, this majestic, colonial structure offers a glimpse into Jaffna’s past and panoramic views.
Nagadeepa Viharaya: One of the 16 sacred Buddhist spots in Sri Lanka, it is a Buddhist temple on an island, believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha himself.
Jaffna Public Library: Once the largest and most significant library in Asia, it was burnt down in 1981 and has been restored since.

FAQs

What language is spoken in Jaffna?

Tamil is the primary language spoken in Jaffna, but most of the locals can understand basic Sinhala and English.

What is the weather like in Jaffna?

Jaffna has warm temperatures year-round, with the monsoon season being October to December.

Is Jaffna safe for tourists?

Jaffna is generally very safe, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Can you visit the islands near Jaffna?

Yes, islands like Delft Island and Nagadeepa can be visited by boat.

Are there good hotels in Jaffna?

Jaffna has a range of newly built accommodations, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels.

What is the Nallur Festival?

This is an annual religious festival to honour Lord Murugan and the Goddesses Valli and Deivanai, which takes place at the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple in Jaffna sometimes during the third quarter of the year depending on the Tamil Calendar. This festival is an explosion of colour, incorporating ornate chariots, drumming, dancing, and even self-mortification.

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