The civil war in Sri Lanka has much in common with late-20th century conflicts in Cyprus and Ireland. Colonial rule based on divide and conquer had sown deep seeds of distrust and resentment. Yet divide and rule has become a modus operandus for swaying voters in democratic elections around the world.
At the moment Jaffna seems very peaceful. In the evening locals enjoy the sunset from the promenade by the fort (2nd and 3rd below).
There are a number of Hindu temples in Jaffna. The huge Nallur Kandaswamy Temple (1st below, no photos allowed on the grounds) was fascinating. Besides the usual no shoes rule, all men must take their shirts off.
We have rather liked going around to Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. They are very welcoming. We could go wherever other people go, unlike many Hindu temples in India which are rather restrictive. There, either we weren't allowed in, or there were too many people around, I couldn't see what's going on.
However, at the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple (in the course of two hours) we got to see all sorts of rituals, such as arti (waving of fire lamp around deities), bathing or dousing deities with buckets of water, chanting, music (drumming and wind instruments), processions, bonfires, prostrations, and more.
There are more Hindus in the north of Sri Lanka than in the south; thus more cows roam the streets as seen below on our bus ride from Trinco to Jaffna.
Jaffna Railway Station has been restored from almost total ruin.
Giant fruit-eating bats are common in Sri Lanka. We spotted this colony roosting while sitting in a park. Yikes! Cool!
Folks in Jaffna were friendly.
St. Mary's Cathedral is huge with three perpendicular naves and a bell tower.
A Tasty South Indian lunch at Vijitha Cafe
Jaffna's Clock Tower (1882) may be the most pleasing ever.
And how about the Public Library?
Hindu Temple at Night. Near our hotel.
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