Built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, Jaffna Fort is a historical attraction in Jaffna. The fort offers a glimpse into the island's colonial past and has served as a military base over the centuries. Visitors can explore the ramparts and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Temple is a popular Hindu shrine located on the island of Nainativu. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Parvati and is believed to be one of the 64 Shakthi Peethams. Visitors can explore the temple complex, take in the ornate architecture, and witness the daily rituals and prayers.
The Jaffna Public Library is a symbol of the city's rich culture and history. The library was established in 1933 and housed a vast collection of ancient manuscripts and texts. Unfortunately, the library was burnt down in 1981 during the Sri Lankan Civil War. The library has since been rebuilt and today serves as a cultural center for the Tamil community.
To get around Jaffna, visitors can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi. Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way to get around but visitors should negotiate the fare beforehand. Taxis are more expensive but offer more comfort and privacy. The average cost for a tuk-tuk ride is $2-3 while a taxi ride can cost between $10-20. Visitors can also take public buses to get around but they can be crowded and may not always be reliable.
If visitors have more time, they can explore other attractions in Jaffna such as the Keerimalai Hot Springs, the Casuarina Beach, and the Jaffna Market. They can also try local delicacies such as crab curry, string hoppers, and mango curry. If visitors have less time, they can skip the Jaffna Public Library and spend more time exploring Jaffna Fort and Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Temple.
Jaffna Airport (JAF) is located in the city center and is the main airport serving Jaffna. The airport is small and serves a limited number of domestic flights. Visitors can take a taxi or tuk-tuk from the airport to the city center which takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo which is the main gateway to Sri Lanka. From there, visitors can take a domestic flight or a train to Jaffna.