How Jaffna became an “Amazing Destination” to travel in 2026?

Jaffna, the capital of Sri Lanka’s northernmost district, has been named one of the Amazing Destinations to Travel in 2026 by Lonely Planet.

Starting its review, the global travel magazine describes Jaffna as “Best for Culture, Cuisine, and Island Adventure.”

According to Lonely Planet, family-run homestays have played a vital role in reviving Jaffna as a cultural travel destination since the end of the civil conflict in 2009.

Visitors can explore iconic landmarks during their visit to the district.

Jaffna Public Library, the historic Jaffna Fort built by the Portuguese in 1619, and the numerous resorts and in some cases, where bunkers have been transformed into fascinating museums.

Just an hour’s ferry ride from Jaffna lies the tranquil Delft Island.

This mini-island ishome to welcoming stays like many home stays helping bring sustainable tourism to this sleepy yet enchanting island.

Getting around Jaffna is easy — by bicycle, tuk-tuk, bus, or ferry.

Regular train and bus services connect the city with Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, located several hundred miles to the south.

Adding in direct flights from Chennai to Palaly International Airport, the gateway to the Northern Province.

Visitors can expect warm smiles, frothy cups of tea, and spicy crab curry — staples of Jaffna’s famous hospitality.

Cultural highlights include sacred sites such as Nagadeepa, which marks the second visit of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka.

The revered Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, which hosts the grand annual Nallur Festival.

With its vast coastline, rich agricultural heritage, industrious people, and vibrant cultural diversity, Jaffna stands out as one of Sri Lanka’s most captivating destinations.

The region which was closed from the rest of the world most of the times during the last five decade or so is slowly opening to the world and there is lot of ‘newness’ for the travelers to enjoy.

A must-visit for travelers in 2026.

Read the Lonely Planet Brief on Jaffna

Book Your Seat on Train Jaffna