Sri Lanka is a multicultural paradise that prides itself in the rich history, natural wonders and the vast range of places that bear religious value. Jaffna ticks all these boxes. Located in the northern province of the island, the uncharted region of Jaffna has a plethora of underrated attractions that will elevate your trip to the island to another level.
Delft Island:
The mysterious island of Delft is located 30km away from the mainland. The boat ride will give you a chance to explore the marine life of the Indian Ocean, but what is even more fascinating than that is the island itself. The remnants of the Dutch and Portuguese colonial eras, in addition to the local Tamil lifestyle, exhibit cultural harmony. Moreover, there is a Baobab Tree and a single banyan tree that are clear evidence of wide-stretched trade back in the day. If you are lucky, the locals in the island would even share horror stories and myths associated with the land!
Chundikulam Bird Sanctuary:
The fact that Jaffna is uncharted territory is probably seen the best at the Chundikulam Bird Sanctuary. The richness of the biodiversity is exhibited through the wide range of endemic and migratory species that can be witnessed at the reservation. One of the most popular attractions for bird enthusiasts over the years has been the flamingo population that visits the area regularly. Other species that can be seen in the sanctuary include crocodiles, deer, sloth bears and more.
Nagadeepa:
Nagadeepa, also known as the Nainathivu Island is home to one of the holiest places mentioned in the study of Buddhism: The Nagadeepa Rajamaha Viharaya. It is believed that Lord Buddha himself visited the island to settle a dispute between two kings of the ancient Naga inhabitants. The islet is significant to Hindus because it is also where the famous Nagapooshani Amman Kovil is located.
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil:
The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil hosts the biggest religious festival in the country, which attracts religious devotees of the Hindu community, as well as visitors belonging to other faiths. The kovil is devoted to Lord Murugan, but it boasts artwork and statues of many other religious deities and gods of Hinduism. The building was first built in 948, but was demolished by the Portuguese in 1621. The reconstruction plans for the kovil made sure that the original structure would remain as a symbol of freedom and a token of the past.
Jaffna Fort:
Jaffna Fort remains to be one of the finest colonial ramparts of the country. It was originally built by the Portuguese and like most forts, was strengthened by the Dutch and the English during their respective rule of Sri Lanka. The fort was also one of the few citadels that were fully functional until Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948. Today, it is one of the most picturesque attractions in the northern capital. Visit the Jaffna Fort to get a panoramic view of the city that you won’t be able to get anywhere else.
