A layover in Jaffna is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Kankesanturai Airport sits just 80 minutes from the city center by Taxis / Tuk-tuks, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at JAF:
First, verify that you can enter Sri Lanka — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxis / Tuk-tuks takes about 80 minutes into Jaffna, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — LKR is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Jaffna:
Start with Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Jaffna Fort. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
If you’d rather stay inside JAF — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Kankesanturai Airport Terminal Relaxation
- Airfield Observation at JAF
Transport from Kankesanturai Airport to Downtown
From JAF, the Taxis / Tuk-tuks gets you to Jaffna in around 80 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 100 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxis / Tuk-tuks offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Eating Well on a Jaffna Layover
In Jaffna
If you make it into town, Mangos is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Rio Ice Cream.
Inside JAF
If you’re staying in the terminal, JAF Airport Canteen is your main option. Airport Quick Bites & Juices works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Jaffna might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JAF, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Jaffna itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Sri Lanka that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at JAF may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Jaffna’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Need a Nap? Options at JAF
Long overnight layover? Your options at JAF include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Sri Lanka also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Jaffna exploring the streets or relaxing at JAF, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.