Jaffna

Located in Northern Sri Lanka, Jaffna is a vibrant city known for its history, culture, and natural beauty. Despite being isolated from the rest of the country for many years due to the civil war, Jaffna has emerged as a popular tourist destination in recent years, attracting visitors from around the world. In this article, we'll explore more about this amazing city, where to stay, the best times to visit, and some tips and advice for making the most of your trip.

About Jaffna

Jaffna is the capital city of the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. It is situated on a peninsula of the same name. The city has a long history and is known for its numerous Hindu temples, cultural festivals, and delicious cuisine. It was a thriving trading port from the 17th century, connecting the island with India and other parts of Southeast Asia. The civil war that lasted for about three decades heavily affected the city, but it has since recovered and is now a bustling hub of activity.

Things to Do in Jaffna

Jaffna is home to many cultural and historical sites.

One of its most famous tourist attractions is the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, built in the 18th century. It is especially beautiful during the annual Nallur Festival, which takes place in August and September.

We recommend you also visit the Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese back in the 17th century and now a popular tourist attraction with stunning views of the city and the Indian Ocean.

The Casuarina Beach, located about 20km from the Jaffna city, is a famous beach considered to be the best in the Jaffna peninsula. It get's its name from the Casuarina trees along its coast. Known for it's pristine white sand, this magnificent beach is must-visit if you are travelling in Jaffna.

Also among its prominent attractions is the historical Jaffna Library, which was once among Asia's largest libraries.

Jaffna is surrounded by several small islands that are home to fishing villages, temples, and pristine beaches. Taking a boat ride to these islands is an ideal way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Jaffna and experience local culture.

Remember to indulge in the delicious local cuisine as well, as the food here differs from most other areas of the country.

Culture

The city is known for its vibrant music, dance, and arts, as well as its numerous cultural festivals that showcase the region's rich traditions.

Festivals play a significant role in Jaffna's culture, and visitors can witness several colorful events throughout the year. Some notable festivals include the Nallur Festival, Thai Pongal, and Deepavali.

Jaffna also has unique traditional music and dance styles, such as the Bharatanatyam dance and Karnatak music, which have been passed down through generations and are a crucial part of the city's cultural identity.

Food and Cuisine

One of the highlights of visiting Jaffna is experiencing its unique cuisine, which is distinct from most other parts of Sri Lanka. The city's cuisine is heavily influenced by its Tamil heritage and has a resemblance to South Indian recipes. Some must-try dishes while in Jaffna include:

1. Jaffna Crab Curry: This spicy and flavorful dish is made with fresh crab cooked in a delicious gravy made from coconut milk, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.
2. Dosai: A thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and urad dal (black lentil) batter, dosai is a popular breakfast or snack item. It is usually served with coconut chutney and sambar, a spicy lentil soup.
3. Odiyal Kool: A traditional Jaffna dish, Odiyal Kool is a wholesome seafood soup made with a variety of seafood, vegetables, and a unique ingredient called odiyal flour, which is derived from the root of the palmyra tree.
4. Pittu: Made from a mixture of rice flour and grated coconut, pittu is a steamed, cylindrical-shaped dish that is often served with curry or coconut milk.
5. Jaffna-style Biryani: Jaffna's version of the popular South Asian rice dish, this biryani is characterized by its use of seeraga samba rice and an array of aromatic spices that give it a distinct flavor profile.

Accommodation

Jaffna has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels to guesthouses and homestays, you have plenty of choices. If you would like a luxury stay, Jaffna has several upscale hotels. If you're looking for a more authentic experience, consider staying at a homestay or guesthouse, where you can interact with locals and learn more about Jaffna's culture and traditions.

Shopping in Jaffna

Jaffna offers a variety of shopping experiences for visitors, from bustling local markets to small boutique stores. The Jaffna Market is a must-visit for those interested in experiencing the local shopping scene, as it is a hub for fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. For souvenirs and traditional crafts, consider visiting shops near popular tourist attractions like Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil or the Jaffna Fort. Here, you can find handloom textiles, brassware, jewelry, and other unique items that showcase the region's craftsmanship.

Best Times to Visit

Any time between January to September is suitable for a visit to Jaffna, as the weather is warm and rainfall is low. But the time from May to September is ideal. This is also the time when many festivals take place, including the Nallur Festival in August and September. If you're planning to visit Jaffna during this time, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance as it can get quite crowded.

Tips and Advice for Visiting Jaffna

• Dress appropriately - Jaffna is a conservative city, and visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. It's best to avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing.
• Respect local customs - Sri Lanka is a culturally diverse country, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, when visiting temples, removing your shoes and hats is customary.
• Use public transport - Jaffna has a good network of buses and trains, which are the most affordable and convenient ways to get around the city. Tuk-tuks and taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive.
• Learn some Tamil phrases - Tamil is the primary language spoken in Jaffna, and it's a good idea to learn some basic terms before your trip. Locals will appreciate the effort, and it can also help you to communicate more effectively.
• Be cautious when visiting the islands - While the islands around Jaffna are beautiful, they can be dangerous during monsoon season. Check the weather forecast and ask locals for advice before planning a trip.

Jaffna is a city that has managed to preserve its unique cultural identity and charm, despite facing many challenges in its past. Today, it is a destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers looking to delve deeper into Sri Lanka's history and culture. With its stunning festivals, delicious cuisine, historical sites, and breathtaking scenery, Jaffna is a destination that will surely leave you mesmerized.