Sport and Adventure in Jaffna

The adventurous will find plenty on offer in and around Jaffna, an area which at least for now remains away from the main tourist trail. Situated in the north of Sri Lanka, Jaffna is poised close to the scattering of small islands which lie just beyond the island’s northern coastline, many of which are fascinating to explore, and the town itself has many spots to be explored.

The most famous of Sri Lanka’s northern islands is Delft Island, a small island best known for its startling population of wild horses, living relics of the Portuguese colonisers who once claimed this part of Sri Lanka. They are an iconic feature of the rural life on Delft Island, as is the Delft Fort and ancient Baobab tree. Sail a short way out to see from the mainland and explore: our guided tour of the island includes a toddy-making class and looks into the crafts produced by the farmers who live here.

Sail Lanka, a reputable Sri Lanka water-sports company, launched Jade 52 in 2015, a catamaran designed for 1-7 day cruises round Sri Lanka. One of their itineraries is an exciting new 7-day trip along the north-west coast that takes travellers on a round trip from Mannar to Jaffna, stopping at the small, remote islands dotted between them along the way. This cruise is a unique opportunity to explore these little-visited islands, and also gives guests the opportunity to see Jaffna town and indulge in plenty of water-sports.

For an active experience in Jaffna itself, why not try our hosted cycling tour? Discover the city’s most interesting sites, including the Fort, the library and Jaffna market, before attending a Pooja ceremony at the iconic Nallur kovil at dusk.