Jaffna International Airport with a private driver
Jaffna International Airport (IATA: JAF) at Palaly reopened to civilian traffic in 2017 after decades of restricted use during the civil war, and domestic flights from Colombo (Bandaranaike) now make the Jaffna peninsula accessible in 55 minutes by air rather than 8 hours by road. The airport is about 15 kilometres north of Jaffna city centre — a 20-minute drive by private car through the flat palmyra-palm landscape that defines the northern peninsula. Arrival by air allows a 2 or 3-night Jaffna extension to be added to any Sri Lanka itinerary without consuming the best part of two days in transit. The domestic carriers operating the route change periodically; confirm with your driver or tour operator before booking. From Jaffna, private-car day trips to Casuarina Beach, the island causeways to Kayts and Karaitivu, and the Nagadeepa temple boat trip are all within 45 minutes of the airport.
What your driver shows you in Jaffna International Airport
- 55-minute flight from Colombo — vs. 8-hour drive to reach Jaffna by road
- 20-minute private transfer to Jaffna Fort, Nallur temple and city centre
- Gateway to Casuarina Beach, island causeways and Nagadeepa temple
Arriving at Jaffna International Airport
Arriving at Jaffna International Airport? Book a private transfer and your driver meets you on arrival with a name board, then takes you door to door for a fixed, all-inclusive fare — no timetables, taxi queues or luggage hassle. The rate is charged per vehicle rather than per person, so it's the best value for couples, families and small groups.
Nearby places
1 place nearby, nearest first.
- Jaffna — 15 km
Related reading
See Jaffna International Airport at your own pace
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