Jaffna City Tour: Explore Historic Forts, Temples, and the Famous Library

Embark on a captivating Jaffna City Tour and discover historic forts, temples, and the renowned Jaffna Library. Immerse yourself in Jaffna’s rich cultural heritage and explore its royal history. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs in the bustling market.

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Jaffna Fort - The Fort was created in the early 1600s by the Portuguese but later captured by the Dutch in the mid-1600. They strengthened and expanded it. The Fort fell into the hands of the British in the late 1700s; and they held it until 1948. You will be able to see the strong stone walls; shored up in some places where they were crumbling; along with the many arched doorways and glimpses of the other buildings within it; such as the Governor’s residence, Queen’s House, the Garrison Parade Ground, and Police quarters.
  • Jaffna Public Library - The library was built in the early 1900s by those who wished to house the many historic Tamil texts in one place. The library soon became the biggest in the South East Asian region and was very famous. However, it was burnt down by Sinhalese extremists during the civil war; along with the destruction of many valuable literary treasures. The library was recently renovated and reopened; and you will find it a very peaceful place to visit. The lobby area also has a display containing many historical antiques from Jaffna which are worth having a look at.
  • Sri Nagavihara International Buddhist Centre - Naga Vihara, This Buddhist temple is the location where the priestess Sangamitta, who brought Buddhism to the island, planted the sacred bo tree branch temporarily after disembarking in Sri Lanka
  • Nallur Kovil - This giant temple is many centuries old and used to be even bigger earlier when it formed the center of a temple city. Created following the ancient temple cities of India, such as Madurai; the temple has a beautiful annual festival that is attended by devotees from around the world.
What's Included
  • English-speaking guide service
  • Water bottle provided per person
What's Not Included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • Entrance tickets to visiting sites.
  • Food and drinks.
  • Gratuities (optional).
Additional Information

Explore the historic Fort of Jaffna. Spend some time at the renowned Jaffna Library. Visit the site where Sangamitta temporarily planted the Bo tree at Naga Vihara. Discover the stunning Nallur Kandaswamy Temple. Delve into Jaffna’s royal heritage by visiting Sangilian Thopu and Manthri Manai. Conclude your visit with some souvenir shopping for friends and family at the Jaffna market.

Location
The Thinnai
Palali Road
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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Rajith
Feb 27, 2024
About my jaffna toure - It's very funny toure we visit jaffna Fort. Dabakola patuna.nagadeepaya temple.and also we see point of pedro. And also climate is hot.but we had fun.and also we take dinner jetting hotel jaffna .its good deener.
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September 2024
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