Delft Island is a unique island built entirely on an ancient coral reef, located about 35 kilometers from Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka.

Covering approximately 50 square kilometers, the island can only be accessed by ferry services operated by the Sri Lankan Government.

The island’s beaches are covered with coral fragments and sand, while the climate is semi-arid and extremely dry, receiving only around 750 millimeters of rainfall annually.

Delft is home to a population of about 5,000 people, and its vegetation mainly consists of shrubs, grasslands, and palmyra trees.

Tourist Attractions on Delft Island

 

1. Delft Island Fort

The Delft Fort was originally built by the Portuguese and later occupied by the Dutch.

Constructed entirely using coral stones and limestone, the fort was once a two-storey structure.

Today, only the ruins remain, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.

2. Baobab Tree and Banyan Tree

One of the island’s most famous attractions is the ancient Baobab tree, believed to have been planted in the 16th century by Arab traders.

Another notable landmark is the 250-year-old Banyan tree, which provides shade and adds to the island’s natural beauty.

3. The Giant Footprint

A giant footprint-shaped mark on a rock, measuring nearly one meter in length, is surrounded by myths and legends.

 Local residents believe it to be the footprint of Lord Hanuman from the Hindu epic Ramayana.

4. Queen’s Tower

The Queen’s Tower is one of the island’s major attractions.

Standing about 55 feet tall, it once served as a navigation guide for sailors.

A fire lit at the bottom of the tower was used as a guiding light for ships approaching the island.

5. The Growing Stone

The “Growing Stone,” located near a Hindu temple, is another fascinating attraction.

Scientifically, the gradual increase in size is believed to result from living coral formations and seismic activity over many years.

6. Pigeon Cote

During Dutch rule, pigeons were used as a means of communication.

The Pigeon Cote was built to house messenger pigeons.

The structure contains around 70 pigeonholes and remains remarkably well preserved even today.

7. Feral Horses and Stables

One of Delft Island’s most remarkable living attractions is its population of wild horses.

These horses are believed to have been introduced by the Portuguese during the 17th century, while the British later continued to maintain them.

Today, around 400 to 500 feral horses still roam freely across the island.

Due to government regulations, they cannot be transported to the mainland.

The island also features an 800-meter-long stable that was once used by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British administrations.

8. Cholan Ruins

Ancient ruins believed to belong to the Chola period can still be found on the island.

Inscriptions written in Tamil and Brahmi script have also been discovered here, highlighting Delft’s historical significance.

 

Things to Know Before Visiting Delft Island

 

Accommodation

There are only five organized accommodation facilities on the island, all offering very basic amenities.

Visitors should not expect luxury services such as attached bathrooms or modern facilities.

 However, the accommodations are economical and suitable for short stays.

Ferry Departures to Delft Island

• 8:30 AM
• 2:30 PM

Ferry Departures to the Mainland

• 6:45 AM
• 11:30 AM
• 3:00 PM

The ferry service is operated by government authorities, and the journey takes approximately one hour each way.

Food

Food options on the island are limited mainly to local dishes served at guesthouses and a few small eateries.

Seafood is highly recommended, especially for dinner.

The local alcoholic beverage is Palmyra Toddy, which costs around Rs. 300 per litre.

Visitors should also try the island specialties, such as Cactus Juice and Wild Dates, as they are considered ‘Delft Specials.’

These are considered unique Delft delicacies.

Internal Transportation

Transportation within the island is available through Tuk Tuks, Mini lorries or tractors.

A tuk-tuk can be hired for approximately Rs. 7,000 to visit all major attractions on the island.

Mini lorries, suitable for larger groups, cost around Rs. 12,000 for a full island tour.

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