Northern Province Travel Guide
Discover the hidden gems of Sri Lanka's Northern Province with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and traditional dishes, we cover it all.
- Introduction to Northern Province
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Province
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Province
- Best Things to Do in Northern Province: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Province
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Province
- Where to Stay in Northern Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Province
- Best Time to Visit Northern Province
- Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Province
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Province: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Province
- Where to Go Next from Northern Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Northern Province
The Northern Province is one of the nine provinces of Sri Lanka, located in the north of the country. It is a diverse region that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The province was largely affected by the civil war that lasted for over two decades, but now it’s rapidly developing and is fast becoming a must-visit destination for travelers. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, when to visit, and more.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Province
Here are some of the must-visit destinations in the Northern Province:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Jaffna Fort
- Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil
- Jaffna Library
- Jaffna Archaeological Museum
- Point Pedro Lighthouse
- Keerimalai Hot Springs
Natural Attractions of Northern Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Delft Island
- Nagadeepa Island
- Casuarina Beach
- Mannar Island
- Adam’s Bridge
- Palk Strait
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Province
Northern Province offers a wide range of hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the landscape. Some of the most popular routes include:
- Jaffna to Delft Island
- Jaffna to Keerimalai
- Point Pedro to Kankesanthurai
- Mannar to Talaimannar
- Chundikulam National Park
Best Things to Do in Northern Province: Activities and Tours
Apart from exploring the cultural and natural attractions, here are some other things you can do in the Northern Province:
- Take a tuk-tuk ride around Jaffna town
- Go on a boat ride to Nagadeepa Island
- Try your hand at fishing with the locals
- Participate in a traditional Hindu puja
- Watch a cultural dance performance
- Go on a scenic train ride along the coast
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Province
If you’re planning a week-long trip to the Northern Province, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Jaffna and explore the town. Visit Jaffna Fort, Jaffna Library, and Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil. |
| 2 | Go on a day trip to Delft Island and Nagadeepa Island. |
| 3 | Explore the natural attractions of Mannar Island and Adam’s Bridge. |
| 4 | Visit the Keerimalai Hot Springs and take a dip in the natural pools. |
| 5 | Go on a bike ride to Chundikulam National Park and do some bird watching. |
| 6 | Take a train ride along the coast to Kankesanthurai and visit the Point Pedro Lighthouse. |
| 7 | Shop for souvenirs and try some traditional dishes before departing from Jaffna. |
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Province
No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without exploring its diverse cuisine, and the Northern Province is no exception. Here are some dishes and beverages you must try:
Must-Try Dishes
- Crab curry
- Jaffna prawn curry
- Mutton curry
- Chicken curry
- String hoppers with spicy coconut sambol
Local Beverages
- Palmyrah Toddy - fermented sap from Palmyrah trees
- Ceylon tea
- Jaffna Mango Juice
Where to Stay in Northern Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Northern Province offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some popular options:
- Jetwing Jaffna
- The Thinnai
- Tilko Jaffna City Hotel
- The Valampuri Resort
- Jaffna Heritage Hotel
What to Buy in Northern Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
The Northern Province is known for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Some of the popular souvenirs to bring back home include:
- Palmyrah handicrafts
- Jaffna saris
- Spices and condiments
- Carved wooden artifacts
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Province
The Northern Province has a unique blend of Hindu and Christian cultures, and the locals are friendly and hospitable. Here are some customs to keep in mind:
- Remove your shoes before entering Hindu temples
- Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious places
- Do not touch or vandalize any cultural or historical attraction
Best Time to Visit Northern Province
The best time to visit the Northern Province is from May to September, when the weather is dry and the temperature is pleasant. However, if you want to experience the local culture and traditions, it’s best to plan your trip around one of the annual Hindu festivals.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Province
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when traveling to the Northern Province:
Do:
- Respect the local customs and culture
- Learn a few words of Tamil before visiting
- Try the local cuisine and beverages
Don’t:
- Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious places
- Take photographs without the permission of the locals
- Litter or vandalize any cultural or historical attraction
Safety and Health
The Northern Province is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always best to take precautions. Here are some safety and health tips:
Safety in Northern Province
- Avoid traveling alone at night
- Keep your valuables in a safe place
- Follow the instructions of the local authorities in case of emergency
Health in Northern Province
- Drink bottled water and avoid tap water
- Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
- Consult a doctor before traveling if you have any pre-existing medical conditions
Getting to Northern Province: Transportation Options and Logistics
The Northern Province is well-connected to the rest of Sri Lanka via various transportation modes. Here are some options to consider:
Airports Near Northern Province
- Jaffna International Airport
- Anuradhapura International Airport
Bus Stations Near Northern Province
- Jaffna Central Bus Stand
- Vavuniya Bus Stand
Other Options
- Hire a taxi or a tuk-tuk
- Take a train to Jaffna from Colombo
How to Get Around in Northern Province
The most popular modes of transportation in the Northern Province are taxis, tuk-tuks, and bicycles. Local bus services are also available, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.
Where to Go Next from Northern Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have more time, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after exploring the Northern Province:
- Trincomalee
- Anuradhapura
- Mannar Island
- Wilpattu National Park
Conclusion
The Northern Province of Sri Lanka is a hidden gem that offers a unique travel experience. With its rich culture, history, natural attractions, and delicious cuisine, the province has something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and allows you to make the most of your visit to the Northern Province.