Mannar Travel Guide (Northern Province/Sri Lanka/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Mannar

Located in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, Mannar is a small fishing town situated on the shores of the Gulf of Mannar. Mannar is an upcoming tourist destination as it offers unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences. From scenic beaches, ancient ruins to a distinct mixed culture, Mannar is an exciting destination for travelers who seek solace and adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Mannar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Thiruketheeswaram Kovil: A historic Hindu temple that dates back thousands of years, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is said that Lord Rama paid a visit to this temple while searching for his wife, Sita.
Mannar Fort: Built by the Portuguese in 1560, this fort was later captured by the Dutch and the British, making it a historic landmark. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Baobab Tree: This is a 750-year-old tree that is said to be the only one of its kind in Sri Lanka. Famed for its unique structure and size, the tree is believed to have been brought here by Arab traders.

Natural Attractions of Mannar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Adam’s Bridge: Also known as Rama Sethu, Adam’s Bridge is a chain of limestone shoals that connects Sri Lanka to India. This is an excellent spot for scenic walks and to witness sunset.
Mannar Island: Surrounded by picturesque beaches, Mannar Island is not only famous for bird watching during the migratory season but also for its pink flamingos.
Talaimannar Beach: Known for its crystal clear waters and white sands, Talaimannar Beach is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mannar

Kokkupadayan Reserve: This is a 700-acre protected sustainable forest with numerous trails accessible for hiking and biking. A popular route is the 3 km jungle trek to the hidden caves surrounded by serene greenery.
Mannar Causeway: This is a 3.5 km long bridge that connects Mannar Island to the mainland of Sri Lanka. A popular route for cycling with picturesque views of clear blue waters and the Baobab tree.

Best Things to Do in Mannar: Activities and Tours

Go on a Dolphin Watching Tour: Head to the Dolphin Point on the Mannar Island to watch dolphins swim alongside the boats.
Visit Rice paddies: Take a walk through the thriving rice paddies of Mannar and enjoy the picturesque sunset view.
Try Kitesurfing: An excellent place to learn and enjoy this water sport is the Kite-Surfing School in Mannar.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mannar

Day 1	Morning: Thiruketheeswaram Kovil, Afternoon: Vankalai Sanctuary
Day 2	Morning: Mannar Fort, Afternoon: Talaimannar Beach
Day 3	Morning: Adam’s Bridge, Afternoon: Kayaking
Day 4	Morning: Baobab Tree, Afternoon: Rice Paddy Walk
Day 5	Morning: Mannar Causeway, Afternoon: Pichchamalai
Day 6	Morning: Dolphin Watching Tour, Afternoon: Kitesurfing
Day 7	Morning: Mannar Island, Afternoon: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Mannar

Must-Try Dishes

Crab Curry: A delicacy in Mannar, crab curry is prepared with freshly caught crab and homemade spices.
Mannar Noodles: Made from scratch with handmade noodles and a blend of spices, this dish is a local favorite.
Kadalai: A popular snack made with roasted chickpeas and a blend of spices.

Local Beverages

Thal Pakodi: Made from the nectar of palm trees, it is a sweet and refreshing drink served chilled.
Karupatti: A sweet and mild drink made from palm jaggery.

Where to Stay in Mannar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mannar Island Beach Guesthouse: Located on Mannar Island, this budget-friendly guesthouse offers clean rooms and friendly service.
Four Tees Mannar: A mid-range option that offers a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar with sea views.
Talaimannar Rest House: A government-owned guesthouse that offers simple yet clean rooms with fantastic sunset views.

What to Buy in Mannar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Palmyrah Products: Made from the leaves of the palmyrah tree, you can buy items such as baskets, mats, and traditional handicrafts made from this unique material.
Cultural Artifacts: You can find traditional woven and beaded items crafted by the locals that represent the mixed culture of Mannar.

Local Culture and Customs of Mannar

Mannar is a mixed cultural melting pot with significant Tamil, Sinhalese, and Muslim influence. The locals celebrate a variety of Hindu and Christian festivals while observing customs and traditions specific to their respective communities.

Best Time to Visit Mannar

The best time to visit Mannar is between November and February, when the climate is cooler with lower humidity. However, migratory season starts in August and ends in March, making it an excellent opportunity for bird watching.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mannar

Do:

Be respectful of the locals’ customs and traditions.
Try the local cuisine.
Dress appropriately, especially when visiting places of religious significance.

Don’t:

Use drugs, as it is illegal in Sri Lanka.
Take pictures without permission, especially at religious sites.
Disrespect the wildlife or the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mannar

Mannar is overall a relatively safe place to travel, but it is important to be vigilant, especially when traveling alone or at night. It is best to avoid isolated areas and dark streets.

Health in Mannar

It is recommended to get vaccinated against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya before traveling to Mannar. Drink bottled water and practice standard hygiene practices to avoid getting ill.

Getting to Mannar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mannar

Jaffna International Airport: Located approximately two hours from Mannar, offering flights to Colombo and India.
Anuradhapura Airport: Located approximately three hours from Mannar, offering domestic flights to Colombo.

Bus Stations Near Mannar

Mannar Bus Station: Connected to major cities in Sri Lanka including Colombo, Jaffna, and Trincomalee.

Other Options

You can also hire a private car or use ride-sharing apps like Uber to reach Mannar from cities like Colombo, Jaffna, or Trincomalee.

How to Get Around in Mannar

The best way to get around in Mannar is by hiring a tuk-tuk or a bicycle. You can also rent a car or a motorcycle as an alternative.

Where to Go Next from Mannar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jaffna: Approximately three hours away, Jaffna is a cultural hub famous for its temples and traditional cuisine.
Wilpattu National Park: Approximately four hours away, Wilpattu is one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most diverse national parks that hosts a wide range of wildlife including leopards and elephants.

Conclusion

Mannar is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka that boasts of an abundance of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor adventures. This guide provides the necessary information for travelers to make the most of their trip and experience this unique destination.