A Couple’sHoliday in Jaffna

The tranquil nature of Jaffna, combined with its unique culture and illustrious history, makes it an ideal city to visit with your loved one. Experience Hindu rituals at the iconic temples and kovils, admire monuments of European origin, explore sun kissed beaches and sample some of the peninsula’s delectable cuisine.

Cultural Splendour

The Jaffna region’s rich and illustrious history goes back many centuries, with one significant event taking place during the lifetime of the Lord Buddha. The cultural and religious significance of the city and its surroundings can still be seen in the form of many temples and kovils, namely the Nagapushani Amman Kovil, Nagadipa Purana Viharaya and the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil to name but three of the major religious places of worship. The intricately designed gopurams (ornate entrances) and stupas demonstrate how Buddhist and Hindu faiths intertwine with the everyday life of Jaffna folk.

Colonial Structures

Lying at the edge of the Jaffna city, right next to the Pannai Bridge that connects the island of Velanai, is the Portuguese built Jaffna Fort. Commissioned in the 17^th century, the fort is an everlasting piece of European architecture that allows you to reimagine the lives of the colonial garrisons that occupied the fortified complex. The 17^th century Portuguese Fort Hammenhiel, located between the islands of Velanai and Karaitivu, was once the first point of defence against invaders coming in from the north. Now functioning as a resort, its colonial facade still remains.

Islands of the Peninsula

While mainland Jaffna is a kaleidoscope of culture, history and diverse landscapes, its neighbouring islands are also well worth visiting. The islands of Velanai, Delft and Nagadipa are a stark contrast to their mainland counterpart, as they are relatively calmer and quieter. Moreover, these islands are historically significant as they contain remnants that date back to the era of the Jaffna Kingdom, as well as the period of European colonisation.

Sun & Sand

Scattered around the city, suburbs and islands are some of the best resorts and hotels that allow you to bask in the peaceful tranquillity of Jaffna. The Casuarina beach, and the beaches in Point Pedro are perfect places to visit with your partner for some fun in the sun.

A Culinary Journey Awaits

Jaffna is famed for producing some of the best crab and prawn curries in the country. Moreover, the Jaffna Market is known for selling some unique snacks, sweets and fruits that are definitely different to what you get in other parts of the country. The Rio Ice Cream Parlour is one of the most famous establishments in Jaffna. Choose from a wide variety of flavours and sundaes that are bound to help you beat the heat. You should also try out their popular fried vegetable rolls (vegetable filling wrapped in a crepe, coated in breadcrumbs and deep fried) which fly off the shelf!