Temples & religious sites
Navaly church bombing
St. Peter and St. Paul's Paul's Church, Navaly
This church serves as a memorial site documenting a significant event from the Sri Lankan Civil War. In July 1995, a bombing occurred here while civilians were taking shelter, resulting in numerous casualties. Visitors go to this site to learn about the region's conflict history and to pay respects at the memorial.
Getting There
The church is located on the Jaffna Peninsula. From Jaffna city centre, it is accessible via local transport or hired vehicle. The journey typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Visit Duration
Allow roughly 1 hour to walk through the grounds, view the memorial markers, and reflect on the historical context of the site.
When to Visit
The site is generally quiet, though it may see more visitors during religious holidays or anniversaries of the event. It is advisable to visit during daylight hours. The dry season is generally preferred for travel in the Jaffna region to avoid heavy monsoon rains.
Nearby Attractions
The location can be combined with other religious and historical sites in the area:
- St. Thomas' Cathedral, Vaddukoddai (4.7km)
- Vannarpannai Vaitheeswaran Temple (5km)
- Kadurugoda Vihara (5.4km)
- Kruys Church (5.9km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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