Full Day Tour Delft and Nainativu Island Adventure from Jaffna

4.8 (37 reviews) 9 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

37 reviews

4.8

pony ride in delft — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Full Day Tour Delft and Nainativu Island Adventure from Jaffna, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

What sets my tour apart is the unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty that you won’t find anywhere else. From the wild horses of Delft Island to the sacred temples of Nainativu, this tour offers an immersive experience that connects you to the heart of Sri Lanka's rich heritage. With a professional, licensed guide and personalized service, you’ll explore historical sites, ancient temples, and breathtaking landscapes in comfort. Whether it's the scenic ferry ride(Raw Local experience with locals), the traditional Delft-style seafood lunch, or the tranquil moments at untouched beaches, every detail is designed to provide an authentic and unforgettable experience. Plus, transportation is tailored to your group size, ensuring convenience and comfort from Jaffna to Delft Island. Don’t miss the chance to discover these hidden gems, away from the crowds, with a tour that offers both adventure and relaxation. Book now for an unforgettable journey!

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At a glance

Duration: 9 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English, Tamil
Operated by: Explore YARL Tours

Ages: Children (3–11 years) · Youth (12–17 years) · Adults (18–65 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Experienced tour guide
Included: Private transportation: From Jaffna to the jetty, transportation by bike, tuk-tuk, car, or van, depending on the number of guests. On Delft Island, you will travel by tuk-tuk or safari vehicle to explore the island.
Included: Admission fees: Admission fee
Included: Bottled water
Included: Entrance fees: Entrance fee
Included: Enjoy a traditional Delft-style seafood lunch served in a village house, where the meal will be presented on banana leaves for an authentic local dining experience.
Included: Public or Private Ferry/Boat to Reach Delft Island
Included: Tea and coffee: Coffee and/or Tea
Included: Unique fresh juice

Itinerary

Pannai Causeway

5 min

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.
Stop 2

5 min

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.
Stop 3

15 min

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

4 hours

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.
Stop 5

45 min

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.
Stop 6

20 min

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.
Stop 7

10 min

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.
Stop 8

15 min

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.
Stop 9

30 min

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.
Stop 10

10 min

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.
Stop 11

5 min

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.
Stop 12

5 min

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.
Stop 13

10 min

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.
Stop 14

one hour

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,jaffna

Passing by

Nainativu Island – A Sacred Crossroads of Faith

Nainativu Island, also known as Nagadeepam, is a small yet spiritually significant island with a deep connection to the indigenous Naga people, located off the coast of the Jaffna Peninsula in northern Sri Lanka. Accessible by ferry from Kurikadduwan Jetty, the island is renowned for its unique religious heritage, featuring both Hindu and Buddhist sacred sites.
Nagapoosani Amman Kovil

20 min

Here is the corrected version including the connection with the indigenous Naga people:

**11. Nagapooshani Amman Temple – A Sacred Site**

**The Nagapooshani Amman Temple, located on Nainativu Island, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, worshipped here as Nagapooshani Amman. The temple has deep historical and cultural connections with the indigenous Naga people, who have revered this sacred island for centuries.**

**The temple is famous for its stunning Tamil-style architecture, including a tall gopuram (gateway tower) adorned with intricate sculptures. It is 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, religious, and ancient heritage.**

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

You can wait for the guide at Cargills Square, next to the Cargills Bank ATM. He will come, ask for your name, check your ticket, and pick you up.

End point

You can wait for the guide at Cargills Square, next to the Cargills Bank ATM. He will come, ask for your name, check your ticket, and pick you up.

Pickup points

OYO 410 Cedar
Tony's Garden House inn
Cedar
Nithusha Holiday House Jaffna
Nothern Residence
The Valampuri
OYO 322 Park View Hotel
Jetwing Jaffna
Gatetrees Resort
North Gate Jaffna
Station Garden Motel

and 8 more pickup points

Pickup available from hotels in Jaffna town. Be ready 10–15 minutes before pickup. Meeting point can be arranged if outside town Let us know in advance.