Jaffna is home to the principal city of Jaffna. Jaffna is located near the sub-continent of India. It can be separated by Palk Strait and the Bay of Bengal. This city was subject to 30 years’ worth of war. This city has evolved in a new direction. Many tourists visit Jaffna today to experience the Jaffna culture and have new experiences.

History of Jaffna

Nagadeepa, or Naka-diva, was allegedly the original name for the Jaffna peninsula. In the Pali chronicles, Nagadeepa first appears in connection to the story of the Buddha’s second visit on the island in 6th century B.C. Mahavamsa (ch.1.vv44-70) tells us that the Buddha made peace during this visit between two Naga Kings of Nagadeepa, who were about to wage war on a jewel-set throne.

According to the Portuguese records, Prince Sapumal (Sinhalese term for Jaffna), repopulated the barren Yapanaya with the Sinhalese from Kotte Kingdom. The Dutch era saw Jaffna populated by south Indians who were brought to the peninsula to cultivate Tobacco. The Tamils are the predominant inhabitants of the Jaffna peninsula today.

Things to do in Jaffna

• Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil
• Fort Jaffna
• Jaffna Market
• Jaffna Public Library
• Nagadeepa Buddhist Temple
• Dambakola Patuna Sangamitta
• Casuarina Beach
• Jaffna Archeological Museum
• Chundikulam Bird Sanctuary
• Kadurugoda Temple and Ruins
• Keerimalai Naguleswaram Kovil
• Neduntivu (Delft Island)
• Point Pedro (Sakkotai Cape)