Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1618 after their invasion of Jaffna, is a remarkable historical site in Sri Lanka. To enter the fort, tickets are required, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its architectural splendor and historical significance. Conveniently, parking facilities are available nearby, making it easily accessible. Exploring the fort's well-preserved structures and taking in the panoramic views is a memorable experience that highlights the region's rich past. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about Jaffna's heritage, Jaffna Fort is a must-see attraction.

Close to the coastal village of Gurunagar, Jaffna, is where you’ll find Jaffna Fort, an intriguing piece of architecture built by the Portuguese between 1618 and 1625. While under Portuguese occupation, the fort was called ‘Fortress of Our Lady of Miracles of Jafanapatão’, a name derived from the neighbouring church dedicated to Virgin Mary. In 1658, the Dutch took hold of the fort, and the Portuguese lost their last stronghold in Sri Lanka. The Dutch went on to expand the fort, but again, the fort swapped hands in 1795, when the British invaded and drove out the Dutch. The fort remained a British garrison up until 1948. Today, the 400-year-old fort is a visceral reminder of Sri Lanka’s colonial past, as well as a maritime heritage. The massive fort complex overlooks the Jaffna lagoon, and while much of it remains intact, a certain part of the fort had to undergo extensive restoration efforts. The fort is known as one of the greatest Dutch forts in Asia, owing to the extensive alterations they made to the original Portuguese design, including adding defensive triangles to mirror something similar to a snowflake (which is especially visible from an aerial vantage point). The gorgeous fort is settled within the borders of a pentagon, which is, in turn, surrounded by a moat. The fort’s walls were constructed with a combination of mortar, brick, stone and coral, and to this day, are mostly hidden underneath grassy slopes. If you’re into history and the exciting architectural wonders it has gifted us with, a visit to Jaffna Fort would be ideal for you!

It's very beautiful historical place. To visit the place to the fullest at least you have to spend more than two hours in the location. According to my opinion the best time to visit the place is evening because it's less heat and sunset also create amazing scenes over the walls. So many ruins to explore.

The Jaffna Dutch Fort Sri Lanka The Jaffna Dutch Fort, also known as Jaffna Fort, is a historical fort located in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. It was built by the Dutch during their colonial rule of Sri Lanka in the 17th century. The design of the Jaffna Dutch Fort is a unique combination of Dutch architectural elements with local Tamil influences. The fort is characterized by its star-shaped design, which was a common architectural feature in Dutch forts of that era. The fort originally had three layers of walls and a moat, making it a formidable defensive structure. The thick walls were made of coral and limestone, and the entire fort was built to withstand attacks. Inside the fort, there are several buildings and structures, including a church, barracks, and a commander's residence. The fort also had a system of canals to supply fresh water to its inhabitants. The Jaffna Dutch Fort stands as a testament to the colonial history of Sri Lanka and is a significant historical and architectural site in the region. Today, it has been partially restored and is a popular tourist attraction.

This fort was originally built during the Portuguese invasion era in 1618. But, it was captured by Dutch in 1658. Later it was taken under controlled by British in 1795. When Sri Lanka got independence from the British invasion in 1948, the fort was taken by Sri Lankan government. Sri Lankan government is holding the current administration of this fort and the Department of Archaeology, Sri Lanka is currently controlling the premises. Also it has fully functional military base inside of it. But, the tourists and local explorers can visit the fort without any problem. Photographes are not prohibited. There is a little in-built museum by Department of Archaeology, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Here you can enjoy the cool environment, skyviews of the Jaffna city, and most importantly stunning sunrises and sunsets over Jaffna lagoon. If you visit Jaffna, put this place into your bucketlist, you will never regreat.

The Jaffna Dutch Fort is a captivating historical treasure that transports visitors back in time. Its imposing walls and intricate architecture stand as a testament to the region's rich history and the influence of Dutch colonialism. As you explore the fort's grounds, you'll be enthralled by the blend of European and South Asian architectural elements, showcasing the cultural fusion that has defined the area for centuries. The serene surroundings and picturesque views provide an enchanting backdrop for those seeking to immerse themselves in a bygone era. The Jaffna Dutch Fort is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike, offering a glimpse into the past while leaving an indelible mark on the present.

Ancient Dutch fort with a small museum situated at the Jaffna city. Can reach there by foot. You need to buy tickets to enter the fort. Has remaining ruins of the old fort including walls, storage rooms, wells, cannons. The inside of the fort is a ground. It's quite warm due to the direct sunlight but can enjoy a perfect evening. Don't miss the Dutch fort if you are visiting Jaffna.

Ancient and historical fort is located in jaffna city center. A very beautiful view can be seen in the evening time. This is maintained well by force. You must visit the place if you travel to jaffna. Jaffna library is located near by the fort and can go on foot.

One of the must place to visit on your Jaffna trip. This historical fort located walking distance to Jaffna town and recommend to visit morning or evening beacuse of direct sun hit. Once you enter in to this fort you can see magnificent artifacts placed all over the ground. It would cost 20 rupees to enter in to Dutch Fort and there is a mini museum located inside of this place.

It’s a bigger tourist place in north part of SriLanka. Jaffna Fort is a fort built by the Portuguese at Jaffna, Sri Lanka in 1618 under Phillippe de Oliveira following the Portuguese invasion of Jaffna. The fort is located near the coastal village of Gurunagar

Scam for foreigners! The thing is you can enjoy the fort from exterior view as you can have a great idea from the picture, very sad they overcharge for tourist scam- never expect price in reasonable Definitely worth it. Especially as you have aleady seen other parts of the country. A visit there will give you another perspective on the country not only because it is a very different landscape but also because of very recent history.

1 A must visit place in Jaffna 2 Built by Portuguese in 1618 and later used by Dutch and British 3 Entrance ticket is prices at 20/- Rs for Locals. 4 Publications are available for nominal price and for those who are interested books you could purchase at a very attractive prices. 5 The Museum is opened for public and many historical items are displayed with a summary of information. 6 To cover the entire fort it will take at least 90 minutes.

It's a unique experience and a well preserved example of a star fort. Only the ramparts are in a good shape. Would be good if you have someone who knows interesting facts about it. Sun can be hot, so... - Visit the Jaffna Library in the morning - Make it to the fort by around 03:30pm when the sun is low. - Keep a couple of hours to explore.

Well maintained and attractive place. A museum is located inside. Somewhat crowdy on holidays. Parking available.

Originally built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, the Jaffna Fort is one of Sri Lanka's last well-preserved colonial ramparts. the 400-year-old fort is a visceral reminder of Sri Lanka’s colonial past, as well as a maritime heritage. The massive fort complex overlooks the Jaffna lagoon, and while much of it remains intact, a certain part of the fort had to undergo extensive restoration efforts.

It's one of the cultural heritage which was constructed in 1619 by Portuguese as a 4 sided garrison and then expanded it to a Pentagon shape by Dutch during 1658. Beautiful and well maintained place. They are collecting a very small amount as entrance ticket. Since it's located near the ocean, you can witness a beautiful sunset from this location.

One of the most beautiful forts in Sri Lanka. Situated at the heart of the Jaffna city next to the ocean. Kept clean and opened from8 to 5.

Rated as the second largest Dutch fort in Sri Lanka built by Portuguese in 1618. It is still under renovation after the destruction of military war governed by LTTE terrorists. Better to have a walk around morning or evening. Less crowded.

Very extensive and understandably a bit deteriorated but still well preserved. The Jaffna Fort was originally known as the Jaffna Dutch Fort, built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century and later captured by the Dutch in 1658. Leave a lot of time to explore as it is an extensive site with lots of history.

One of the must do tourist things in Jaffna and northern Sri Lanka to do. The fort is the largest of all the Dutch outposts and is quite spectacular. It's slowly being rebuilt after being damaged during the civil war in Sri Lanka. The Tamil forces used the fort as a base but were surrounded by the Sri Lanka's army and shelled heavily.

The Dutch Fort in Jaffna stands as an enduring testament to the region’s colonial history and architectural grandeur. This imposing structure, with its distinct blend of Dutch and Portuguese influences, offers visitors a captivating journey into the past. Constructed in the 17th century during the Dutch colonial period, the fort served strategic purposes, showcasing the Dutch East India Company’s dominance in the region. Today, it remains a significant historical landmark, drawing both history enthusiasts and casual visitors. The fort’s entrance, flanked by large coral walls, sets the stage for an immersive experience. The massive gates, complete with the emblem of the Dutch East India Company, transport visitors to an era of maritime trade and colonial rule. The architectural precision is evident in the well-preserved structures and the layout of the fort, designed for both defense and administrative functions. Walking through the fort, visitors encounter a maze of alleys, ramparts, and buildings, each with its own historical significance. The Governor’s Residence, with its colonial charm, stands as a poignant reminder of the colonial administrators who once occupied these halls. The Queen’s House, used as a residence for the Dutch commanders, showcases architectural elements that reflect the period’s European influence. The elevated vantage points along the fort’s walls provide panoramic views of Jaffna’s surroundings, creating a sense of awe and appreciation for the fort’s strategic location. From these vantage points, visitors can admire the vast expanse of the Jaffna Peninsula and the Indian Ocean beyond. Beyond its historical significance, the Dutch Fort serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. The open spaces within the fort often host cultural events, adding a contemporary vibrancy to the ancient walls. The fort has become a symbol of resilience, having withstood the tests of time and the impact of conflicts in the region. The Dutch Fort’s surroundings contribute to its allure. The lush greenery and the serene ambiance create an oasis within the bustling city, inviting visitors to stroll along the fort’s walls and reflect on the layers of history embedded in its stones. A visit to the Dutch Fort in Jaffna is not just a step into the past; it’s an exploration of cultural heritage and a testament to the endurance of architectural marvels. The fort’s rich history, combined with its scenic beauty, makes it a must-visit destination for those eager to unravel the layers of Jaffna’s colonial legacy. Tickets available in the entrance : Local : 50/= Non local : 4USD

After the Portuguese invaded Jaffna in 1618, Phillippe de Oliveira led the Portuguese to build the Jaffna Fort in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The seaside settlement of Gurunagar lies next to the fort. Fortress of Our Lady of Miracles of Jafanapatão is the name given to the fort because of the many miracles that have been credited to the Virgin Mary statue in the surrounding church. In 1658, the Dutch, led by Rijcklof van Goens, took control of it and made structural expansions. The British occupied it in 1795, and they maintained command of a British force there until 1948. Being the only sizable military fort in the nation, it was garrisoned because its ramparts included only military and administrative structures.

Good place to visit, most of the walls are made of using corals, it is a wonderful architecture by dutch, but it is not properly maintained, most of the walls are modified with cement. Still there are other remains which are worth of seeing.

Interesting Fort located in Jaffna. Very well maintained with information about significant events which took place. Signage a bit old and damaged. I would recommend replacing with new ones.

As we visited is November 2023 many areas had been restored, but the ground area in the fort. It seemed central cultural fund has done a great work in restoration. Big thanks. Vehicle parking area could be improved and guided tours could also add value greatly to tourists bithnlocal and international, as this is recommended as a must visit in jaffna

Jaffna Dutch fort is one of the well preserved and maintained archaeological sites in Sri Lanka. This fort would have played a vital role during the Dutch government. Fort is closed to at 6pm everyday and charge Rs. 50/= entrance fees per local adult. Very calm, peaceful place to visit. And the nicest scenery with the sun set.

It’s a beautiful place! I mean so serene and peaceful! Apparently 1st built by the Portuguese and then reconstructed by the Dutch in 1600s. You won’t waste your time if you visit this place..

Amazing well spent weekend at Jaffna fort was surprisingly relaxing environment with friends and familly. Great landscaping and and architecture was found here and the brick-blocks were made out of correl based mixture. It can be seen the correl texture on the brick surfaces and this was a historical fort built by the Portuguese in 1618. Tickets can be bought at the entrance at a low cost and even clean toilet facilities are provided for the visitor inside if need 😁.

Very interesting history, price was a bit steep. There is a small museum which was informative. Good picture location. However it would be good if there were more signs to tell visitors what they were looking at, or even provide a guide book. Otherwise it's an important historical site to visit.

Jaffna Fort is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. With its rich history, stunning colonial architecture, and breathtaking views of the Jaffna lagoon, this well-preserved fort is a true gem. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply want to take in the beauty of this unique destination, Jaffna Fort is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.

Jaffna Fort is an ancient fortress located in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Originally built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, it stands as a historical landmark. The fort's walls and structures reflect a blend of European and local influences. Today, it is a popular tourist spot, offering a glimpse into the region's colonial past and providing visitors with picturesque views of the surrounding area.

You have to purchase the tickets at the entrance, it's not that expensive. The view from the top of the fort is nice. They have a small museum sort of a thing inside showcasing the artifacts. The place was not crowded at all. Plenty of spaces to walk and explore. There are some bullet holes in the walls, I'm assuming they came from the civil war back in the 90's.

The Dutch Fort in Jaffna is a fascinating historical site that takes you back in time. It has impressive architecture and offers beautiful views. Exploring the fort's passages and hidden rooms is really interesting. With its interesting history and peaceful atmosphere, the Dutch Fort in Jaffna is a captivating place that should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

Good place for people who love history. Nothing much to see inside, other than huge walls and good view of the lagoon. Specially you will see a magnificent view of the lagoon if you visit there in the evening.

One of the best places you must visit. Good photo location if you need to take attactive photos. Best to visite at the evening or morning.

This fort was built by Portuguese. During the invasion era in 1618. But, it was captured by Dutch in 1658. Later it was taken under controlled by British in 1795. You have to take ticket before entering to the fort, ticket price was 20rs. Recommending to visit evening to see the sun set.

One of the most beautiful fort in srilanka. Located near to jaffna lagoon.

Very attractive fort in sri lanka. Still it's really beautiful and has very ancient value. Better to go there at evening or early morning. We went at 11am and very hot at thet time. So we couldn't cover the all fort. There is a well and it's water didn't taste any salty. If you visit jaffna you should have to visit there

Must visit place in Jaffna. You need to buy a ticket visit the place. This was built by Dutch.