Perched right at Sri Lanka’s northern tip, laid-back Jaffna feels a million miles from the chaotic bustle of the island’s commercial capital, Colombo. Largely closed to visitors until the end of the 26-year civil war in 2009, a small hospitality industry has emerged in recent years. There is a range of accommodation for all budgets, from simple hostels and family-run B&Bs to luxury hotels. Finding the best places to stay in Jaffna remains an art — there are anonymous modern offerings aplenty — but scratch below the surface and you can find hidden gems in charming heritage houses.

Foodies will be pleased to hear that the region is famous for several seafood specialities, sourced from the nearby saltwater lagoon — most notably the ever-popular Jaffna Crab Curry. There’s heaps of history here, too, from the remains of a star-shaped Portuguese and Dutch-era Fort, to the beautifully rebuilt Jaffna Public Library, the red-and-white Nallur Kandaswamy temple to striking St Mary’s Cathedral. For a real sense of Jaffna's turbulent recent history, guided tours come highly recommended. Keerimalai Hot Springs or Kankesanthurai Beach are also a short drive away.

Trundle along the causeway connecting nearby islands to the mainland, with fishermen wading in the shallows and birds circling overhead. The sacred sites of Nagadipa and the former Dutch settlement on Delft Island, where wild ponies roam, are both accessible by ferry. There are limited options when it comes to bars and restaurants, but this does mean that Jaffna’s balmy evenings are quiet and calm. Book a spot at one of the best places to stay in Jaffna, and soak up some culture without the crowds. Visited by relatively few travellers, this northern city makes for seriously special off-the-beaten-track exploring.

The Best Places to Stay in Jaffna

For City Style

• Jetwing Jaffna is easily the smartest place to stay in town. A slick, super-central modern structure, the hotel boasts contemporary rooms with traditional touches and impressive city views. Sample local delicacies at the hotel restaurant and admire the sunset from the panoramic rooftop bar.

For Boutique Charm

• Thambu Illam, a recently renovated heritage home in a leafy residential area, has just four ensuite bedrooms, ensuring a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of privacy. Friendly staff are on-hand to help and this secret spot feels like a real retreat.
• Fox Jaffna, a historic family residence turned boutique hotel, has 28 simple guest rooms with dark wooden furnishings and views towards a big swimming pool. The civil war-era bunker has been transformed into an art gallery, which boasts an impressive collection of pieces by Sri Lankan artists. Affordable, characterful and known for its excellent regional cuisine.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering stay, we'd suggest visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Bandaranaike International Airport, and travel by road or rail to Jaffna in around seven hours. Trains from Colombo or Anuradhapura run regularly, and tickets are best booked at the train station a few days in advance, or online. Reserved seats do sell out! The latest information about train times can be found here.
• We'd recommend driving only if you have previous experience navigating bustling Asian roads. If you would like to hire a car, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Jaffna is a year-round destination, with temperatures hovering around 30°C. The heat reaches its peak in March and April, and the rains are expected in October and November. Travel between June and September or December to early March for cooler, drier weather.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Trincomalee.
• Alternatively check out our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.