Full Day Tour Delft and Nainativu Island Adventure from Jaffna

As we leave Jaffna town, we cross the scenic Pannai Causeway—a bridge that connects the mainland to the surrounding islands. Enjoy views of calm lagoons, fishing boats, and local birdlife as we drive across this peaceful stretch. It's a beautiful introduction to the coastal charm of northern Sri Lanka.

Kannakai Puram Welcome Curve (Pass By Only)
As we journey toward the islands, we pass the Kannakai Puram Welcome Curve—a graceful bend in the road that offers a warm visual greeting. This spot marks the transition from the mainland to the island regions, providing a glimpse of the serene landscapes ahead.

Kurikadduwan Jetty, affectionately known as "KKD," serves as the primary departure point for ferries heading to Sri Lanka's northern islands, including Delft (Neduntheevu) and Nainativu. Situated approximately an hour's drive from Jaffna, the journey to the jetty offers scenic views of rural landscapes and causeways

Delft Island (Neduntheevu) – A Remote Island of Wild Beauty
Delft Island, locally known as Neduntheevu, is a serene and remote island located approximately 35 km off the coast of Jaffna in the Palk Strait. Accessible via a one-hour ferry ride from Kurikadduwan Jetty, the island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

01. Delft Wild Horse Sanctuary
Delft Island is famous for its wild ponies, descendants of horses brought by the Portuguese in the 16th century. These beautiful animals roam freely across the island’s open plains, surviving in a tough, dry environment. Visitors can enjoy seeing these unique horses in their natural habitat—a living reminder of the island’s colonial past.

02. Perukamaram (Baobab Tree) – Delft’s Ancient Giant
On Delft Island, you'll find the remarkable Perukamaram, a massive Baobab tree believed to be over 400 years old. Introduced by Arab traders centuries ago, this rare tree stands out with its thick trunk and sprawling branches, offering a glimpse into the island's diverse history and natural beauty.

03. Growing Stone – A Natural Wonder of Delft
The Growing Stone on Delft Island is a mysterious coral rock that locals believe slowly increases in size over time. This fascinating natural formation adds to the island’s charm and has inspired many legends among the villagers. It’s a simple yet curious sight that invites wonder and imagination.

04. Large Banyan Tree – Nature’s Own Forest
In the northeastern part of Delft Island, you'll find the impressive Large Banyan Tree, locally called "Aalamavanam." This massive tree has grown and spread over the years, with its hanging roots reaching down into the ground to form new trunks. Together, they create a wide, shady canopy that stretches around 60 meters in length and 30 meters in width, looking almost like a small forest born from just one tree. It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot that shows the magic of nature.

05. Queen’s Tower – A Beacon from the Colonial Era
The Queen’s Tower, also known as Quindah Tower, is a historic structure located on the southeastern coast of Delft Island. Built during the colonial era, the tower served as a trigonometric point and a navigation aid for ships during the day. it also worked like a lighthouse, where a fire lit at the base would create a vacuum to push light upward through a chimney-like tube, guiding sailors from afar.

Today, Queen’s Tower stands as a symbol of Delft’s colonial heritage and a unique piece of island history.

06. Pigeon Nest – Delft’s Ancient Message Tower
The Pigeon Nest on Delft Island is a small stone tower built during the Dutch colonial era. It was used to house messenger pigeons that carried important messages between the island, ships, and the mainland. Today, it stands as a simple but fascinating reminder of early communication methods.

07. Old Dutch Hospital – Echoes of Colonial Care
Our next stop is the Old Dutch Hospital, a historic building from the Dutch colonial period. Built with coral stones and limestone, this structure once served as a small medical center for soldiers and settlers on the island. Though now in ruins, it still offers a glimpse into the early healthcare system and the colonial influence that shaped Delft’s history.

08. Old Dutch Courts – Remains of Colonial Justice
Next, we visit the Old Dutch Courts, where legal matters were once handled during the Dutch colonial era. Built using coral and limestone, this modest structure served as a courthouse for the island’s settlers. Today, the ruins stand as a silent reminder of the colonial administration and the justice system that once operated on Delft Island.

09. Dutch Fort – A Silent Guardian of Delft
The Dutch Fort on Delft Island was built during the colonial era using limestone and coral. Though now mostly in ruins, it once served as a stronghold to protect the island. Walking through its remains offers a glimpse into Delft’s historic past and the influence of Dutch architecture.

10. Delft Beach Swim, Fresh Seafood Lunch, and Return to the Jetty
Taking a dip at Delft Beach is a truly refreshing experience!
The shallow, calm waters and soft sandy bottom make it a perfect spot for a safe and enjoyable swim, especially in sheltered areas protected from strong currents. ‍♂️

Surrounded by peace and untouched beauty, this beach offers the perfect setting to relax, unwind, and soak up the island vibes. ✨

After your swim, continue your adventure by visiting a local village house for a freshly prepared seafood lunch — straight from the ocean to your plate! ️ Taste the authentic flavors of Delft Island, where meals are made with love and local traditions.

Once your heart (and stomach!) are full, head back to the jetty to catch your ferry and journey back to the mainland — carrying memories of a perfect island day.

Nainativu Island – A Sacred Crossroads of Faith
Nainativu Island, also known as Nagadeepa, is a small yet spiritually significant island located off the coast of the Jaffna Peninsula in northern Sri Lanka. Accessible by ferry from Kurikadduwan Jetty, it is renowned for its dual religious heritage, featuring both Hindu and Buddhist sacred sites.

11. Nagapooshani Amman Temple – A Sacred Site
The Nagapooshani Amman Temple, located on Nainativu Island, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, known as Nagapooshani. The temple is famous for its stunning tamil-style architecture, including a tall gopuram (gateway tower) adorned with intricate sculptures.

It’s a peaceful and spiritual site, especially during major Hindu festivals when it attracts thousands of devotees. A visit to this temple offers a glimpse into the island's rich cultural and religious heritage.

12. Nagadeepa Rajamaha Viharaya – Buddhist Site
Located on Nainativu Island, the Nagadeepa Rajamaha Viharaya is one of Sri Lanka’s sixteen holiest Buddhist sites. According to tradition, the Buddha visited this island to mediate a dispute between two Naga kings, Mahodara and Chulodara. The temple complex features a silver-painted stupa, a Bodhi tree, and a traditional Jaffna-style shrine room. It’s a peaceful place for reflection and spiritual connection