Delft Island, Jaffna: How To Visit And The Places To Visit On This Coastal Island

I traveled extensively across Jaffna, the Tamil heartland of Sri Lanka. The Delft Island, a boat ride away, offered the most historically and culturally enriching experience during my entire Jaffna trip.

Yes, the day trip to Delft Island was a bit rushed, as you have to catch the 8 AM boat from Kurikadduwan Jetty. Otherwise, your entire day will be ruined.

However, after traveling 30 kms off the coast of Jaffna, Delft Island unfolded its mystery before my eyes. Overall, it is a limestone and coral island that has all the drama.

At the same time, there is something very authentic about this island. Local history and culture exude through every corner. That is what won me over as a follower of the TravelDownUnder principles.

Here is more in this travel guide. I will begin with where Delft Island is located and the modes of travel to and around Delft Island. Then, I will talk about its history, significance, and things to see.

Where Is Delft Island?

Delft Island is in the Palk Strait, and it separates Southern India from Sri Lanka. It is a small island with a maximum width of 6 km and a length of 8 km.

With such a tiny landscape, it is surprising to find out how much the island has to offer to the visitors. 

How To Visit Delft Island From Jaffna?

As I have mentioned, if you include a visit to Delft Island in your Jaffna travel itinerary, you have to be very particular about your timings.

You have to reach Kurikadduwan Harbour at least by 7:30 AM to catch the ferry at 8 AM. To reach the harbour, you will have to take bus 776 from the Jaffna Bus Station, or you can take a tuk-tuk. 

The bus ticket costs LKR 90, and the tuk-tuk ride costs LKR 2000.

Furthermore, the return ferry from Delft Island starts at 2:30 PM. Once you reach the Kurikadduwan Jetty, you will get the bus to Jaffna.

The return bus was very crowded, and you must not expect the best infrastructure during the jetty ride. Still, the hassle is worth it.

How To Move Around Delft Island?

Once you arrive on Delft Island, you can take a tuk-tuk ride to explore the main attractions. Many tuk-tuk drivers wait for the tourists aligned with the arrival time of the ferries.

You can book a tuk-tuk ride for 4-5 hours, and the cost will be around LKR 2000-2500.

Why Visit Delft Island, Jaffna?

The history of Delft Island goes back to the time of the Chola Dynasty. Since then, the island has gone through various reigns, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and finally the British colonial periods.

As you walk through the roads graced by palm trees and the sea breeze touches your cheeks, you will find how history speaks here, through the ruins, dirt roads, coral walls, and quaint villages.

You suddenly start missing your home, especially the afternoons of summer vacations, when time was simpler. There is a rustic charm here that you cannot miss.

The locals here are very hospitable. However, the only thing I missed was that there were no restaurants.

So, if you are planning a food tour in Jaffna, Delft Island can be a disappointment. Still, here are more reasons to visit this beautiful coral island.

Delft Island: A True Hidden Gem And In Close Encounter With Nature

After Lonely Planet named Sri Lanka the best travel destination in the world in 2019, Colombo and Kandy became overcrowded.

That’s a big turn-off for backpackers like me. So, it’s important to find a break in the north of the country and visit Jaffna temples and other attractions, where you can experience the spirituality, understand the local people, and most importantly, experience the story of human resilience.

This is because this part of the country is still rebuilding after the civil war ended in 2009.

Delft Island. Jaffna takes these humane aspects and the rawness of Northern Sri Lanka to a new level.

In this age of 5G, Delft Island still has 3G connections. Also, the rise in sea levels still impacts the crops, ancient sites, homes, and the entire livelihood of the island.

So, when I started exploring the island, I had to walk through the ankle-deep water in the fields. I had no problems in cherishing the experience as everything reminded me of my home. 

Stories That Make Delf Island Fascinating

Ancient Tamil legends and forgotten colonial ambitions have intertwined in the landscape and livelihood of Delf Island.

Moreover, you have to listen to the inside stories here if you enjoy a good mix of history and local folklore.

1. The Growing Stone 

There is a limestone outcrop on the island that keeps growing physically. Now, scientifically, it is the calcite and coral deposits that are to be blamed for the growth.

However, for local devotees and the followers of Lord Mahadeva like me, it is a Swayambhu Lingam.

This self-manifested form of Lord Shiva resembles Nakathampiran, or a multi-headed cobra. I made some offerings there, following the local customs, and had my moments.

2. The Giant’s Footprint Nobody Remembers

The indentation close to the Sarapiddi area grabbed my attention. It was around 40 inches in length.

There is a local belief that this is the left footprint of Lord Hanuman. Some even say that it is the footprint of Lord Shiva.

Nevertheless, a similar indentation, resembling the right foot of the same identity, can be found on the Neduntheevu island.

3. The Wild Ponies And Their Secret Lives

The Portuguese and the Dutch brought the wild ponies here. These feral ponies are the descendants of the European mares and Arabian stallions.

They grew in numbers and were celebrated during the time of Lieutenant Nolan. He conducted a huge horse-breeding program.

By the end of the British Era, most of these ponies were abandoned, and today they are a protected species of the island.

So, you cannot take them outside the island.

4. The King Vedi Arasan

Vedi Arasan, or the King of Firecrackers, was a celebrated Mukkuvar king here. He was the helm of the pearl trade in the Palk Strait.

Furthermore, local stories suggest that the Dutch Fort was built on the foundation of the king’s ancient palace.

5. The Pigeon Cote Or The Dove Cote 

The Pigeon Cote or the Dove Cote near the ruins of the Dutch Hospital is a witness to the colonial past of the island.

It is 2 meters in length, and it shows how pigeons used to function as the physical internet connection.

They were trained, and they used to fly between the Jaffna Mainland and the Delft Island.

Though the pigeons were used to carry military dispatches, they were also used for the dissemination of personal letters.

6. The Massive Baobab Tree 

The Baobab Tree is a telltale of how Arab traders enjoyed supremacy in this region. The hollow in the trunk of this ancient tree is large enough to accommodate two people. 

Furthermore, prisoners were often kept inside the big hollow during transition. 

What Are The Things To See In Delft Island, Jaffna?

Delft Island may be small in size. However, its diverse cultural and historical attractions will keep you busy.

However, these are the attractions you must not miss.

The Portuguese And Dutch Fort 

This fort is one of the most prominent attractions on Delft Island. It is a free place to visit.

The Portuguese built this fort, and then the Dutch occupied it.

Moreover, this fort has a coral and limestone structure. So, it stands out because of its unique architecture.

The Baobab Tree 

The Arab merchants brought the giant baobab tree in the 16th century. You suddenly feel that you are in Africa.

The Old Dutch Hospital And Pigeon Nest 

The Dutch built this hospital, and in the early 1900s, it became an administrative center.

You can still see an inscription of the British Emblem on the Courts.

Furthermore, the Pigeon cote or pigeon nest near the hospital shows how pigeons used to function as messengers between Jaffna Mainland and Delft Island.

Where To Eat And Drink On The Delft Island?

You can eat at the Delft Hotel near the jetty. You can eat parathas, rice, wade, and dosai. Also, you will find many local vendors selling snacks.

However, you will not find a hotel on Delft Island. So, carry adequate snacks and water when traveling to Delft Island.

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Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

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BY  Arnab Jul 25, 2023

Churches, Venetian castles, olive groves, and forests of pine right up to the water's edge set the iconic Ionian islands of Greece apart. Having lived for centuries under Venetian rule, it is aptly reflected in their age-old buildings. Choosing the right operators, like www.ionianislandholidays.com can be a deciding factor in making or breaking your holiday to these stunning Greek islands. The sapphire-blue Ionian Sea welcomes visitors to the breathtaking destinations. There’s so much more to witness, from Kefalonia to Lefkada, Corfu, Zakynthos, Paxos, and Ithaki. They are all wonderful island hot spots that you will adore exploring. So, if you are still not considering moving to Greece, which is easier than you could imagine, you aren’t living life completely. Below are a few reasons that will prove the point! Why visit the Ionian islands? 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The Best Great Barrier Island Camping Tips: Ultimate Guide To The Best Camping Spots On Great Barrier Island, New Zealand 

BY  Sibashree Nov 17, 2025

Spotting the burrows of the black petrels at Glenfern Sanctuary and the hillside was like magic! The burrows had eggs in a cream shade with tan freckles. They almost looked like the eggs of a hen, though slightly larger. Also, some chicks were chirping their hearts out inside the burrows. They looked like those squishy dog toys. Now, spotting birds is one of the most fulfilling activities when you are camping on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Furthermore, if days were about hiking and spotting the birds, the nights were about indulging in the surreal beauty of the celestial bodies at this designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. Moreover, camping in Great Barrier Island is a true off-grid and remote experience. No Streetlight!  No Public Rubbish Bins!  And, No Powered Camping Sites!  It’s just you, the camping tent, and the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf. Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Great Barrier Island camping tips. 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With a capacity of accommodating only 30 campers, this campsite has a rich history associated with whaling, kauri logging, and timber milling. The waters of the Whangaparapara Harbour make it an idyllic retreat, and it is also the base of the Aotea Track. 6. Whangapoua Campsite  The Whangapoua Campsite is a surfer’s paradise, and it is located on the edge of the Whangapoua estuary. It is also a favorite camping site for fishing. With an accommodation capacity of 150 people, this campsite remains open from Christmas to the end of February. However, the biggest highlight of this camping site is the views of Rakitu Island and Mount Hirakimata. A Comparison Summary Table Of The DoC Camping Sites On The Great Barrier Island, New Zealand  DoC Campsite Access Landscape Facilities Activities Dog Access Fees Akapoua Bay Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Boating, Fishing, Walking, and Tramping No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Harataonga Beach Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Swimming, Snorkeling, Fishing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Awana Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Kayaking and Canoeing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Medlands Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Fishing, Surfing, Swimming No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free The Green Campsite Boat, Foot Coastal Cooking Shelter, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenHiking, Boating No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Whangapoua campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenFishing, Surfing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free  Insider Tips For Camping At DoC Campsites On The Great Barrier Island If you are camping in a caravan or campervan, remember that the gravel roads leading to the camping sites, especially the Harataonga Campsite, are steep and winding. 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Stray Possum  Stary Possum in Tryphena is an ideal camping site for backpackers. If you are camping here, you will have access to the kitchen, toilets, and showers of the adjacent Stray Possum Lodge. This camping site has 14 tents, and you can call 09 4290 109 for booking details. 21 Essential Great Barrier Island Camping Tips  I promised you tips, and here they are. Do not go to Great Barrier Island without reading this checklist.  • Packing And Food  1. Bringing a Gas Cooker  Open fires are banned in the Camping sites of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to bring a gas burner for preparing your food. 2. Packing Your Food  Groceries are not available everywhere, and they are even very expensive. So, it is better to collect and pack the groceries you will need before leaving Auckland. 3. Bringing a Good Chilly Bin  You will need this insulated chest for storing warm and cold food items. 4. Bringing a Red-Light Torch  The island is a Dark Sky Sanctuary. A red torch lets you stargaze without ruining your night vision.  5. Bringing Cash  EFTPOS (debit) is unreliable, and many camping sites only accept cash. 6. Packing Warm Clothes  The weather can suddenly become cold, even on summer days. So, you will have to pack layered clothes.  7. Carrying Mosquito and Insect Repellent  Sandflies and mosquitoes are notorious on Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry an insect repellent.  • On-Site & Facilities  8. Cold Showers  Most shower stations on the Great Barrier Island are cold water shower stations. This is great as the dash of cold water in the morning, literally works as the eye opener. 9. Long-Drop Toilets  The long-drop toilets are basic and waterless. Using these pit toilets can be challenging for some campers. 10. Drinking Water  The tap water available at these sites is not ideal for drinking unless it is purified or boiled. 11. Pet-Friendly  The DoC camping grounds are not accessible to dogs. This is crucial for the protection of wildlife, the safety of the pets, and soil movement, causing the resurrection of pets and parasites affecting the local flora and fauna. 12. Booking  The slots for camping sites such as Medlands, Akapoua get sold more than 6 months in advance for the Christmas and New Year periods. So, it is indeed a year-long planning. 13. Alcohol Rules  The consumption of alcohol can be banned in various camping sites, especially during the peak seasons. So, check with the camping site authority. • Transport & Logistics  14. Having a Vehicle  Having a vehicle is a must for moving around the rugged and large Great Barrier Island. You cannot walk between the sites.  15. Renting a 4WD (or 4WD-Capable)  The roads to various campsites are challenging. The road to Harataonga, especially, is very difficult. So, you will have to rent a 4WD-capable vehicle. 16. The Motorhome/Campervan Reality  The gravel roads are narrow, steep, and winding, and if you are planning to camp in a large RV, you will definitely struggle. 17. The Dump Station Nightmare  There is only one dump station in Claris, and it is only for black water or toilet waste. You will have to carry your grey water or sink with you. 18. Freedom Camping  Freedom camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a fascinating idea. However, the reality is quite different. It is heavily restricted, and sticking to the DoC sites is the best option.  • Safety & Etiquette  19. Using a Paper Map  Mobile network and GPS will not function in various parts of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry a paper map. 20. Tell Someone Your Plans  If you are hiking on the Great Barrier Island, you have to keep someone informed. The wilderness and remote locations of the hiking trails can throw many challenges, despite having an easy to moderately difficult level.  21. Being a Good Neighbour  You must respect the quiet, off-grid, and nature-first vibe of the Great Barrier Island. So, you have to keep the noise level down. How To Reach The Aotea Great Barrier Island With Your Camping Gear? For campers, especially the ones with campervans, traveling by the ferry from SeaLink is the best option. It is the only mode of transportation in which passengers and cars are both transported. It is a 4.5-hour picturesque journey from Auckland. Your Great Barrier Island Camping Adventure Is Calling Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the right mix of adventure, soaking in nature, and cherishing the off-the-grid living of the island. However, it’s not going to be easy with the amenities at the campsites being basic, and even the gravel roads posing challenges for the big RVs and campervans. 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THIS Is When You Should Visit Maldives!

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

The best time to visit the Maldives is between December and March. This small group of islands in the Arabian Sea is probably one of the most beautiful holiday destinations for both honeymooners as well as families. These tropical islands are hot and full of sunny weather. The heat stays between 23 degrees to 31 degrees, however, given the year-round sunny weather and the absence of winters in the Maldives, the best time to visit Maldives is anytime. Maldives In Dry Season The dry seasons in Maldives have a temperature of 31 degrees Celsius in the day and 24 degrees Celsius in the night. It is probably the best time suited to visit the islands of Maldives. You can enjoy cultural activities, sightseeing, try the local cuisine, and water sports. You can swim in the blue expanse where the average temperature of the water is 30 degrees. During these months, you can witness the Maldives at its best. The overall vibe of the islands is festive, and the crowd is thicker than usual. The weather and the beauty all around make the dry seasons ideal for visiting. Little to no rain and warm temperatures allow the seaside experience to become even more top-notch. With no precipitation, the visibility is crystal clear, making the picturesque island become even more vibrant. There are beautiful beaches, gorgeous lagoons, and colorful coral reefs to enjoy while you are here, which you won't get bored of. The country does get crowded during the peak season, but an individual resort inhabits each island, so it does not get too crowded. It will be reasonable for you to check before you plan a trip about the crowd and availability of a more personal experience. Some of the most popular locations in the Maldives are Nalaguraidhoo Island, Banana Reef, South Ari Atoll, and North Mal-Atoll. Another well-rated tourist spot is the HP Reef. This is a protected marine ecosystem that harbors rich marine life. Maldives: A Cultural Hub The major festival celebrated in November is the birth of Prophet Muhammad or Mawlid. It is the most well-known festival celebrated in a grand carnival style for two days. Street processions and elaborate mosque decorations dot the island. During peak season, the cost of staying at a hotel rises manifold, so if you are looking for more budget-friendly options, you can choose to visit in April. This marks the end of the peak times, and the tourism industry here enters the lean months. Maldives has become one of the top hotspots for Indian tourists not only because of its beauty but also its food options all around the world. The traditional cuisine of the Maldives is a plethora of fish, coconuts, and starches. Some of the common foods that come under seafood are local cuisine which includes yellowfin tuna, wahoo, skipjack tuna, and frigate tuna. With its geographical proximity to India, there is a lot of culinary influence that is evident in its spices, flavors, and curries. The laws here are very strict, so you must beware of carrying alcohol, pork, religious books, and tobacco products. And don’t forget to check the seasonal price hikes when booking water activities. Why Visit The Maldives? Now that you know when is the best time to visit the Maldives and you are still not sure what you could do there, we have all the answers for you. Keep reading to know what you can expect from a visit to the Maldives. Bioluminescent Water Under The Stars Visit the Vaadhoo Island in Raa Atoll, where the stars float in the water– the phytoplankton dinoflagellates that emit luminescent toxins. The small starry lights are emitted as a defense mechanism to keep other predatory fish and creatures away. You can walk through the planktons and create more stars that will be etched in your memory for the rest of your life. Maldivian Culture Along with all the natural beauty, Maldives also boasts a vibrant culture. If you want to become more aware of the culture, you must witness the Bodu Beru dance that takes place on the beach in the evenings. You can tape the moments on your camera or try dancing to the tune along with the dancers. The Maldivian boat Dhoni can also be another way you can get to know the local people and their stories. Swim With The Sharks The enormous whale sharks glide along the coral atolls, followed by smaller-sized reef sharks. They also swim around in the nearby lagoons around the resorts. This is not a matter of high alarm, as people can easily swim with these sharks, albeit with supervision. Maaya Thila, Baa, and Ari Tolls are known for shark spotting. You can encounter them at an up-close level or enjoy watching them come by daily at their feeding time near some resorts where they are given food. Best Places To Visit Here are a couple of the best places you can consider when planning to visit the Maldives. There are too many to enlist, we have brought two of the best you cannot remove from your to-do list. Alimatha Island If you are attracted by those pictures, you saw of small, single-residence villas standing in the sea and want to visit the Maldives, this is the name of the place. Instagram-worthy and absolutely breathtaking, this island is a must-visit. Tripadvisor Review “The island is wonderful. If you love peace, beauty, nature, snorkeling, diving, fishing, it's simply the place to go. Villaggio Bravo is perfect for families with kids, the miniclub organizes plenty of activities for them. The food is delicious: the buffet ha many choices. I was surprised to find mainly italians (it's an italian village) and so few foreigners. Maybe it should be better advertised abroad.” - Lushangyin Banana Reef Considered to be the home of the best reef in the Maldives, this beach makes your sunny dreams come alive. Tripadvisor Review “This is by far the best snorkeling I have ever experienced. The amount of marine life, the colors, the coral, the temperature of the water was amazing. I saw Moray Eels, Blowfish, Giant Clams and so much more. On the way out I dozens of dolphins escorted us and jumped out of the water...amazing. There is a very strong current and it is in the middles of the ocean. An absolute must tough if you can get there.” - Avery D Wrapping Up Are you planning a trip to the Maldives and want to know when is the best time to visit Maldives we hope you now know that it really is always a good idea to visit this heaven on earth. The peak season, though, is the dry months. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! 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