Jaffna Fort Tourism

Type of destination: Historical Landmark

Ideal visit duration: 2-3 hours

Jaffna Fort, located in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, is a historic fortification that has stood as a witness to the colonial past of the country. Built by the Portuguese in 1618, it was later expanded by the Dutch during their rule. This fort is one of the most archaeological and architectural landmarks in the region, reflecting a mix of European military architecture of the 16th and 17th centuries. Despite the damages it has suffered throughout various conflicts, particularly during the Sri Lankan Civil War, the fort is an emblem of resilience. Restoration efforts have revived much of the fort's former glory, allowing visitors to explore its ramparts, bastions, moat, bell tower, and the remnants of its colonial past. The fort's strategic location by the coast made it a crucial point for control and defense during its operational years. Today, Jaffna Fort attracts historians, archaeologists, and tourists who are interested in Sri Lanka's colonial history, its local Tamil culture, and the visible scars of the country's contemporary history.

Top 5 Reviews on Jaffna Fort

shir0mi0

Wrote on 27th May, 2024

Sad to see

Jaffna Fort we were happy to visit there. But after came to Jaffna Fort, premises was full of trash. It seems that whole Jaffna town need good cleanning. In jaffna they have very nice lagoon but unfor..

nigelm737

Wrote on 9th Apr, 2024

Limited interest.

There is little to see in Jaffna so you have to visit the fort as it is there and an historic site. The fort is basically just the walls. Marginally interesting to walk around inside but nothing rea..

hassanaA7542VA

Wrote on 7th Oct, 2023

Superb for history geeks and families

A comprehensive location if you love history. The Fort built by the Portuguese, and then Dutch, and used by the following governments that ruled Jaffna. They have set up a small museum at the entry ca..

Odyssey27286697394

Wrote on 26th Jun, 2023

Interesting historic stop in Jaffna - do visit!

We were pleasantly surprised about the Size of the fort. You can walk along the ramparts and see the ruins of an old Dutch church, the ‘queens’ palace, and the site of the prison. Approx 30 mins to vi..

985joosth

Wrote on 2nd Jun, 2023

Local government shows its real ‘hospitality’

Local government, why do you rip off tourists??? Locals pay 20 SLR and tourists pay 4 USD! Your local people need tourists so you better make Jaffna more attractive for visitors!!! Shame on you!!!

Jaffna Fort Tourism

Jaffna Fort Tourism

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