What to Pack for Jaffna. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Air Travel

Airlines & Routes

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the main international airport for Sri Lanka, handling most international flights. Many international airlines fly to CMB. These include SriLankan Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, and various Asian carriers. They connect Colombo to major cities worldwide.

Flight Information

Direct flights are available from major cities in Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and some cities in East Asia. North America typically requires connections through the Middle East or Europe.
Peak season (December-March) generally sees higher flight prices. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often offer better deals on airfare. Book in advance during peak times.
For flight deals, explore Dollar Flight Club or compare fares on Skyscanner.

Transfers from CMB to Jaffna

You have several options for reaching Jaffna from Colombo's international airport.

Transfer Methods

Domestic Flight: The quickest way. Fly from Colombo's Ratmalana Airport (RML) or Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to Jaffna International Airport (JAF). Airlines like Cinnamon Air and FitsAir operate these routes. The flight takes approximately 1 hour. It offers convenience but costs more than land travel.
Train: A direct train service connects Colombo Fort Station to Jaffna Railway Station. The "Yal Devi" express train is popular. Travel time ranges from 6-8 hours. Booking in advance, especially for 1st class or the observation car, is highly recommended as seats sell out quickly.
Bus: Long-distance air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses operate from Colombo to Jaffna. Travel time is 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Buses depart from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal. Buses are generally cheaper than trains but less comfortable for long journeys.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Jaffna connects well by train to Colombo via the Northern Line. The "Yal Devi Express" and "Uththara Devi" are popular services, offering various classes from 1st Class Observation Saloon to 3rd Class seating.

Long-Distance Buses

Many private and public bus services connect Jaffna to major cities like Colombo, Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Trincomalee. Air-conditioned (AC) buses offer more comfort and faster travel, while non-AC buses are cheaper and more frequent.

Self-Driving & Roads

Driving in Sri Lanka can be challenging. An International Driving Permit (IDP), endorsed by the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC), is legally necessary for foreigners. Hiring a car with a driver is highly recommended for safety and relaxation. For car rentals, consider DiscoverCars.com.

Train & Bus Comparison

Class/Type	Comfort	Price Range (LKR)
1st Class Observation (Train)	High (panoramic views, reclining seats)	2,500 - 3,500
1st Class AC (Train)	High (reclining seats, air conditioning)	1,800 - 2,800
AC Private (Bus)	High (reclining seats, air conditioning)	1,500 - 2,500

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Ferry from India:A ferry service connecting Kankesanthurai (KKS) port near Jaffna to Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, India, started in late 2023.
Route Details:This provides a new sea route. Schedules and operational regularity may vary. Check current status if planning this route.
Cruise Ports:No major cruise ports directly serve Jaffna.
River Transportation:River transportation is not applicable to Jaffna, as it is a coastal city on a peninsula.

Immigration & Connections

Immigration at Seaports:If you arrive by ferry from India, expect standard immigration and customs procedures at Kankesanthurai Port. Have all your required documents ready.
Connections to Land:Kankesanthurai (KKS) is easily accessible from Jaffna city by local bus, tuk-tuk, or taxi. These options provide quick transfers from the port to your accommodation.
Airport Facilities (CMB):CMB offers duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange services, and SIM card vendors. Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is highly recommended.
Airport/Station Facilities (JAF):Jaffna International Airport (JAF) is a small airport with basic facilities. Jaffna Railway Station and the Main Bus Terminal have basic amenities like waiting areas and small shops for snacks.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Exit Fees:No specific departure tax is typically levied at Sri Lankan airports. This fee is usually included in your airfare.
International Flights (CMB):Arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. Check-in, security, and immigration processes can take time, especially during peak travel periods.

Timing Recommendations

Domestic Flights (JAF/RML):Arrive 1 to 1.5 hours before departure. These airports are smaller, so check-in is quicker.
Train/Bus from Jaffna:Arrive at the railway station or bus terminal 30-45 minutes before departure. This allows time to find your platform or bus and settle in.
Airport/Station Facilities:Jaffna International Airport (JAF) is a small airport with basic facilities. Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) offers a wider range of facilities, including lounges, restaurants, and shops.

Departure Checklist

Confirm flight/train/bus schedules.

Check passport validity.

Keep all documents accessible.

Allocate ample time for travel to departure point.

Ensure enough local currency for immediate needs.

Verify luggage limits.

Smooth Departure

Keeping digital copies of documents accessible offers convenience.
Enjoy the final moments of your Jaffna journey.

What to Pack for Jaffna