Asian city with palm-lined beaches named as 'most underrated destination'
Sri Lanka is known for its palm-lined beaches (Image: Getty) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more Holidaymakers looking for a “culturally rich” experience should consider adding one specific destination to their bucket lists for 2026. Christian Locke, travel expert at cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel, highlighted the beauty of Sri Lanka, located in South Asia, noting the island’s abundance of palm-lined beaches, ancient rock fortresses, and national parks brimming with unique wildlife.However, when it comes to visiting the scenic country, there’s one specific area that seems to remain practically untouched by visitors, and deserves much more recognition.Jaffna, in the north, had a longstanding association with conflict, making people wary of considering the area safe, let alone a holiday spot. However, the travel expert reveals that today, “it stands as one of the most rewarding places to visit”.Mr Locke said: “Culturally, Jaffna feels distinct from the rest of the country. Tamil heritage is deeply woven into everyday life, from language and food to religious traditions and architecture. Visiting the region offers a powerful insight into Sri Lanka’s layered history and the resilience of its communities, all while experiencing a quieter, more reflective pace of travel.”While the vibrant city might not be one widely considered amongst holidaymakers, it certainly is making a name for itself within the travel industry, as Jaffna was also named as one of the top 25 destinations to visit this year by Lonely Planet.Jaffna is also a home to stunning beaches, including Casuarina Beach, which is considered one of the most beautiful and popular within the region, thanks to its long stretch of white sand. But what separates the city to the rest of the island? Jaffna offers a calmer and authentic experience compared to the likes of busier cities in the south.Jaffna was named as one of the top destinations for 2026 (Image: Getty)The Jaffna Public Library, is a key landmark in the city, marking a “powerful symbol of cultural preservation” having been rebuilt after it was destroyed during the country’s civil war in 1981.One impressed visitor, wrote on Tripadvisor: “The Jaffna Public Library is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of the historic city of Jaffna. Founded in 1933, this grand building is a testament to the city's love of knowledge and learning. “With its stately columns, intricate carvings, and beautiful arched windows, the Jaffna Public Library is a true architectural marvel.”Jaffna also stands out for its “distinctive culinary identity that differs from the rest of the island,” according to Mr Locke.The cuisine is known for its bold flavours and using fresh produce (Image: Getty) Get More of Our News on GoogleSet Daily Express as a 'Preferred Source' to get quicker access to the news you value. He said: “Northern Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold flavours, local spices and emphasis on fresh produce and seafood. Farm-to-table dining experiences highlight how closely food, land and tradition are linked, offering travellers a taste of regional dishes rarely found elsewhere in Sri Lanka.”Improvements in infrastructure across the north of Sri Lanka, such as restored rail services, enhanced road links, and regional flights through Jaffna International Airport, have made the underrated city easier for travellers to visit.
