Map of Jaffna, Sri Lanka

🏞️ What to do in Jaffna

Immerse yourself in the cultural and natural wonders of Jaffna with a myriad of exciting activities. From exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on pristine beaches, Jaffna offers something for every traveler.

• Best Budget Activity in Jaffna:

  Jaffna Fort: Wander through the historic Jaffna Fort, a symbol of the city's resilience and heritage.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Jaffna:

  Nagadeepa Island: Take a boat ride to Nagadeepa Island, home to ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples, offering a tranquil escape.

• Best Luxury Activity in Jaffna:

  Delft Island: Indulge in a private tour to Delft Island, known for its wild ponies and unique landscapes, for an exclusive experience.

🍽️ Where to eat in Jaffna

Indulge in Jaffna's rich culinary scene and savor a fusion of traditional Tamil cuisine and global flavors. Don't miss out on trying local delicacies like Jaffna crab curry, Jaffna-style dosai, and seafood dishes.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Jaffna:

  Mangos•Affordable:

  Cuisine specialty: Authentic Jaffna cuisine with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Jaffna:

  The Palmyrah Restaurant•Moderate:

  Cuisine specialty: Fresh seafood and traditional Jaffna dishes

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Jaffna:

  Jetwing Jaffna•High-end:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining with a focus on regional flavors

• Best Budget Bar in Jaffna:

  Cozy Corner•Pocket-friendly:

  Chilled Jaffna-style Palmyrah drink

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Jaffna:

  The Garlic Restaurant & Bar•Reasonable:

  Spicy Jaffna Mutton Curry

• Best Luxury Bar in Jaffna:

  The Margosa Bar•Upscale:

  Signature cocktail with a twist of Jaffna flavors

🏰 What to see in Jaffna

Discover the historical and cultural beauty of Jaffna through its iconic landmarks that stand as testaments to its rich heritage. From ancient temples to architectural marvels, Jaffna's landmarks offer a glimpse into its storied past.

• Nallur Kandaswamy Temple

  A sacred Hindu temple renowned for its ornate Dravidian architecture and vibrant religious festivals.

• Jaffna Fort

  An imposing fortification dating back to the 17th century, showcasing Dutch and Portuguese architectural influences.

• Keerimalai Naguleswaram Temple

  A picturesque temple located by natural springs, attracting pilgrims seeking healing and spiritual solace.

• Point Pedro Lighthouse

  An iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the Jaffna Peninsula and the surrounding coastline.

• Casuarina Beach

  A pristine stretch of sandy shores lined with casuarina trees, ideal for sunbathing and relaxing by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Jaffna

Discover the vibrant shopping scene of Jaffna, where bustling markets and unique boutiques offer a treasure trove of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the city's culture through its diverse shopping destinations.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Jaffna:

  Jaffna Market: Explore the lively Jaffna Market, brimming with stalls selling fresh produce, spices, traditional fabrics, and handicrafts at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Jaffna:

  Rio Ice Cream: Indulge in delicious homemade ice cream flavors at Rio Ice Cream, a popular local spot known for its unique offerings and refreshing treats.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Jaffna:

  Chunnakam Handicrafts Emporium: Browse exquisite handcrafted items at Chunnakam Handicrafts Emporium, where you can find intricate woodwork, pottery, and traditional jewelry of superior quality.

🚍 Getting Around Jaffna

• Public Transport

  In Jaffna, public transport plays a vital role in helping both locals and tourists navigate the city. The primary mode of public transportation includes buses, which are affordable and widely available throughout the city. Buses in Jaffna operate on specific routes, with prices ranging from LKR 10 to LKR 30 depending on the distance. They usually run from early morning till late evening, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city. Additionally, there are no metro or train services in Jaffna at present.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Jaffna is well-connected through various transportation hubs. The main bus terminal in Jaffna is the Jaffna Central Bus Stand, located in the heart of the city. From here, travelers can easily access buses to different parts of Jaffna and neighboring areas. While there is no airport in Jaffna, the nearest airport is the Jaffna International Airport, which connects the city to other parts of Sri Lanka.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: For those looking for more flexibility in their transportation, car rental services are available in Jaffna. Companies like Jaffna Car Rentals and Avis offer a range of vehicles at around LKR 3000 per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Exploring Jaffna on a bicycle can be a fun and eco-friendly way to see the sights. Rental services like Jaffna Bicycle Rentals provide bicycles for around LKR 200 per day, allowing you to pedal your way around the city at your own pace.