Jaffna Archaeological Museum

Jaffna Archaeological Museum is an important historical and cultural attraction located on Navalar Road in Nallur, Jaffna. It is also known as the Regional Museum of Jaffna. The museum preserves valuable archaeological objects that provide information about the history, culture, religious traditions and lifestyle of people in the Northern Province.

The museum was established on land donated by the Arumuga Navalar Foundation in 1975. The museum building was constructed under the supervision of Dr. Roland Silva, the former Commissioner of Archaeology, and was established in 1978. It is managed by the Department of Archaeology of Sri Lanka.

Visitors can explore collections of ancient Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, stone carvings, metal objects, wooden artefacts, pottery, historical coins and colonial-era items. Some of the exhibits were discovered at important archaeological locations such as Kantharodai (Kadurugoda), Nilavarai and other places in the Jaffna region. The outdoor display area also contains historical objects, including old gravestones and whale bones.

The museum is a valuable place for students, researchers, history lovers and tourists who want to understand the archaeological heritage of Jaffna. It offers an opportunity to discover the different religious and cultural influences that shaped the Northern Province over many centuries.