The Jaffna Fort is a 17th-century fortress built by the Portuguese and later occupied by the Dutch and British. It's a fascinating historical site that offers beautiful views of the city and the Indian Ocean. You can walk around the ramparts, see the oldest lighthouse in Sri Lanka and visit the small museum inside.
The Jaffna Market is a bustling local market with fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. You can try some street food, buy souvenirs, and interact with the friendly vendors. After visiting the market, head to the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and has a colorful and intricate architecture.
Casuarina Beach is a lovely spot for a family day out. You can swim, sunbathe, or rent a bike and explore the surroundings. After the beach, head to the Kadurugoda Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple that houses dozens of small stupas dating back to the 2nd century BC. It's a serene and spiritual place that offers a glimpse of Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
Most of the attractions in Jaffna are within walking or biking distance from the city center. For longer distances, you can rent a tuk-tuk or a car. Tuk-tuks are inexpensive and convenient, but make sure to agree on the price before getting in. A car rental can cost around $30 per day, plus gas. Jaffna also has a good public bus system, but it can be crowded and slow.
Here are some estimated costs and travel times:
If you have more time, you can visit other interesting places in Jaffna, like the Keerimalai Hot Springs, the Dambakola Patuna Sangamitta Temple, and the Jaffna Public Library. If you have less time, you can skip the beach or the temple and focus on the other attractions. Make sure to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a hat, as Jaffna can get quite hot and sunny. Also, try the local cuisine, especially the seafood and the Jaffna mangoes.
Jaffna International Airport (JAF) is a small airport located 16 km north of the city center. It mostly serves domestic flights from Colombo and other Sri Lankan cities, but it also has some international connections to India and Malaysia. The airport has basic facilities like ATMs, cafes, and duty-free shops. The best way to get to the city center is by taxi, which costs around $5.