Islands of Jaffna

One of the joys of visiting Jaffna Sri Lanka is exploring the islands – driving across the long straight causeways, enjoying the dry, flat and otherworldly scenery and generally feeling at the ends of the world.

The day tour of Jaffna’s islands can take in Kayts, and though there is nothing in particular to see, the Tamil and Dutch architecture is interesting and the remains of the Portuguese Fort at Urundi and St James’ Church are worth a stop.

From Kayts, the next island – connected by causeway to Kayts, is Punkudutivu, the launching off point for ferries to Nagadipa and Delft Island. Visiting both in one day is possible, though hectic, so it might be best to choose one or the other. Delft is over an hours ride away, whilst Nagadeepa is just 20 minutes and the ferries are very frequent.

Nagadeepa has two temples, one sacred to Hindus and the other, Buddhists.  The short stretch of road between the two has a string of stalls, forming a bazaar, servicing the many pilgrims who come to worship at these holy sites.  

Delft is an altogether more barren and remote feeling island of Jaffna Sri Lanka, with an eclectic array of local sites and curiosities: the enormous baobab tree, the large coral Dutch fort, the coral walls protecting the villagers smallholdings and houses, The Quindah Tower, the wild ponies and some excellent palmyrah toddy (gently fermented traditional (mildly) alcoholic drink). There are almost no vehicles and the real joy of Delft is the other-worldly feel and the barren remoteness of the landscape. A trip to Jaffna Sri Lanka is for those who really want to get off the beaten track.