The remotest of Sri Lanka’s inhabited islands is Delft Island – located bang in the middle of the Palk Strait, separating Northern Sri Lanka from Southern India. Delft Island Sri Lanka, locally known as Neduntheevu is a small and remote island, located 30km off the coast of Jaffna. It offers one of the most unique remote experiences in the country, comprising of unique landscapes, Dutch colonial history, and distinct cultural heritage.
History and Landscape
Delft Island boasts a rich history dating back to the ancient Chola Dynasty, continuing through Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods. Remnants of this past are scattered throughout the island, from colonial ruins and winding dirt roads to coral walls and small, rustic villages.
Despite its historical significance, Delft has yet to fully embrace modernity or tourism. Some may see this as a lack of development, while others find that it enhances the island’s rustic charm. The island offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life, with friendly locals welcoming visitors to explore its unique environment.
Getting to Delft Island from Jaffna
The journey begins at Kurikadduwan Harbour, about an hour’s drive southwest of Jaffna. From there, travelers board a ferry for an enclosed, bumpy ride lasting approximately one hour. The ferry service is controlled by the Navy department and has fixed timings.
Visitors must first reach Kurikadduwan Harbour, which is accessible via:
- Bus (Route 776): Departs from Jaffna bus station at 6:30 AM
- Tuk-tuk: Costs approximately LKR 3,000.
The ferry departs at 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM from Kurikadduwan Harbour. There is no fee for this service, but only 100 passengers are allowed per trip. Thus it is advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Priority for the ferry service is given to employees and residents of the island. Once they are aboard, the tourists get their turn on the ferry. The return ferry from Delft leaves at 2:30 PM.
There is also an option of renting your own boat to get to Delft Island and back at your convenient timings. This service is priced at approximately 35,000 LKR per boat for both ways. So if you have a large group, it may be worth availing this service.
Upon returning to Kurikadduwan Jetty, a bus is available for transportation back to Jaffna. You should try to secure a seat quickly as this bus service tends to get overcrowded.
Location and Geography
Delft Island is situated in the middle of the Palk Strait, separating northern Sri Lanka from southern India. It lies about 30 km west of Jaffna, stretching 8 km in length and 6 km at its widest point. Upon arrival, Delft’s isolated and mysterious landscape, composed of coral and limestone, immediately sets it apart from other destinations in Sri Lanka.
Getting Around Delft Island
Once you get off the ferry at Delft Harbour, tuk-tuk drivers and open truck drivers will offer island tours covering all major sights. The cost ranges between LKR 1,500 – 2,500 for a four-to-five-hour excursion via tuk tuk and about 8,000 to 12,000 LKR via open trucks (ideal for a group of 6-8).
Why Visit Delft Island Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka’s recent tourism boom has led to more popularity in the southern and central regions. For the discerned traveler, the north remains largely untouched. Delft Island provides an unparalleled off-the-beaten-path experience, where modern conveniences are scarce, and the natural surroundings feel almost otherworldly. Thus the island qualifies on the list of must-visit destinations on the Beyond Wild Places blog – calling all travelers to the wilder side of life.
Top Attractions on Delft Island
Despite its remote location, Delft Island is rich in history and natural beauty. Apart from the stunning beach, Some key attractions include:
- Delft Beach: Delft Beach, located along the island’s northern coast between the jetty and the western edge of the main town, offers a picturesque setting with white sand and clear, tranquil waters. As the most easily accessible beach near town, it is an ideal spot for a leisurely sunset stroll.
- Portuguese & Dutch Fort: Nestled beneath towering Palmyra palms, this ancient fort, originally built by the Portuguese using limestone and coral, was later repurposed by the Dutch.
- Baobab Tree: A massive baobab tree, believed to have been planted by Arab traders in the 16th century.
- Old Dutch Hospital: A former hospital later converted into an administrative center, featuring British colonial inscriptions.
- Pigeon Nest: A structure once used to house messenger pigeons during Dutch rule.
- Dutch Horse Stables: Delft Island once served as a breeding ground for Dutch horses, leaving behind several ancient stables scattered across the landscape. Today, these structures are in a state of decay, with 64 visible pillars that once secured the horses.
- Hanuman’s Footprint: A large footprint-like indentation in rock, which local legends attribute to the Hindu deity Hanuman.
Important Travel Considerations
- Food Availability: While Delft Island is home to approximately 6,000 residents, it has minimal food options. Restaurants are virtually non-existent, making it essential for visitors to bring their own food and sufficient water.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal period to visit is between December and April when the seas are calm. The monsoon season (October-November) can make travel difficult.
Where to Eat and Drink on Delft Island
Food options on Delft Island are limited. The only available restaurant, Delft Hotel, serves basic meals like vegetable roti and wade. Another eatery, Island Hut, offers fresh seafood and curries. We recommend you carry sufficient water and snacks for your day on Delft Island Sri Lanka. If you plan to have any meals on the island, it is advisable to place your order at the restaurant at least a couple of hours in advance. This gives them enough time to prepare and have the food ready for you once you’ve finished your tour.
Final Thoughts
Delft Island may not fit the conventional image of a tropical paradise, but its raw beauty and historical depth make it one of the most intriguing destinations in Jaffna. Whether exploring colonial ruins, witnessing wild horses roam freely, or experiencing the local way of life, a visit to Delft Island offers an unforgettable glimpse into a lesser-known part of Sri Lanka. Get in touch with our team at Travel Treasures Sri Lanka to plan your holiday in Delft Island Sri Lanka as well as many other parts of the country.