Mannar Island
Mannar Island in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka is an island off the coast of Mannar, linked to the mainland via a causeway and that is also said to have once been connected to India through a chain of limestone shoals called Adam’s Bridge. The island consists of approximately 125 square kilometers of land, the majority of which features large expanses of white sand and palm trees. There are also forests of palmyra palm trees that house several tribes of monkeys near the beach; visitors should therefore take caution not to leave food lying around.
Why Visit?
Mannar Island is known for its sunny weather and ancient baobab trees, which are said to have been planted by Arab merchants visiting the island centuries ago. It was once at the center of the island’s prosperous pearling industry. The island contains the main town of Mannar, and visitors can also head to Keeri Beach, the Talaimannar Lighthouse, the 700-year-old Baobab Tree, and Mannar Fort. There’s plenty to visit, and Mannar Island is a must-see for those wishing to explore Sri Lanka’s northern shores.
When to Visit
Mannar Island and all that it has to offer is best enjoyed between July and September, and between the months of December and February. The weather in the northern parts of Sri Lanka can get extremely hot, so it is best avoided during the summer period between April and June.
