Kayts

Kayts (Tamil: ஊர்காவற்றுறை, Urkavaturi) is a town on Kayts Island in the Jaffna District of Northern Province. It is one of the islands of the Jaffna archipelago, connected to the mainland by causeways. Kayts has a rich colonial history, with a Dutch fort built in the 17th century that played an important role in controlling access to the Jaffna Peninsula.

The island is known for its Hindu temples, fishing industry, and palmyrah cultivation. The Dutch fort at Kayts is one of the best-preserved colonial forts in northern Sri Lanka. The town has a relaxed, rural island atmosphere. The climate is hot and dry, best visited December–March.

By Plane

Jaffna Airport (JAF IATA) is 25 km east. Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB IATA) is 400 km south.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Jaffna (25 km east). Buses connect to Kayts.

By Car / Road

Kayts is 25 km west of Jaffna via causeways and islands. Buses from Jaffna take 40 minutes.

Tuk-tuks. Bicycles are ideal for exploring the small island.

Kayts Dutch Fort — A 17th-century Dutch fort with thick ramparts and a moat, offering views of the surrounding lagoon. Hindu temples — Several colourful Tamil temples. Fishing villages — Traditional fishing communities along the coast.

Explore the Dutch fort. Walk or cycle around the island. Photograph the local fishing boats.

Local Tamil restaurants serve seafood, rice and curry, and dosa.

King coconut water. Palmyrah toddy. Tap water not safe.

Basic guesthouses. Most visitors stay in Jaffna and visit as a day trip.

Dried fish, palmyrah products, and local crafts.

• Jaffna (25 km east, 35 min) — Cultural capital with Jaffna Fort and temples.
• Karainagar (10 km west, 15 min) — Island with beaches.
• Velanai (5 km south, 10 min) — Adjacent island.
• Delft Island (15 km northwest, 45 min by ferry) — Unique island with wild ponies.
• Point Pedro (45 km northeast, 1.5 hr) — Northernmost point of Sri Lanka.