Point Pedro: The Northern-most Point of Sri Lanka

Point Pedro - The northern-most geographical point of Sri Lanka has been one of the main destinations of the itinerary of a traveler in the Jaffna peninsula since ages. With the conclusion of the victorious offensive against the LTTE terrorists in 2009, Point Pedro is right back on the Sri Lankan travel map.

It is believed that a Dutch sailor called Pedro found this to be the northern-most point of the island and named thus during the Dutch colonial era. However, the history of this area as a commercial hub stretches way back.

The monument marking the point.

At present the point consists of a barren coral-strewn beach next to small-scale fisheries harbour. To enter the beach, one needs to enter through a Navy Camp. Normally, you do not have to request permission in-advance, and once you let the guards know about your requirement, they will allow you to visit the beach. A small monument depicting the Sri Lankan flag has been erected closer to the edge of the shore, to mark the importance of the place.

Getting There…

Finding the way to the Point Pedro beach is not that difficult. You just have to continue along the Jaffna - Ponnalai - Point Pedro (AB021) Road which stretches along the northern coast of the Jaffna Peninsula.

When travelling from the Point Pedro town west-bound along AB021, continue for 2.7 km along the coast until you see a Navy camp to your right. Get permission from the guards to enter the camp premises and it is around 150 m walk to the beach.

Coral-strewn beach to the east of the point.

Fishing boats to the west of the point.

The total distance from Jaffna town center to the Point Pedro (point) is around 32.5 km.

Places to Stay

• Blue Haven, Chundikuli, Jaffna. (30.9 km)
• Theresa Inn, Chundikuli, Jaffna. (30.9 km)

Attractions Nearby

• Point Pedro Lighthouse (4.3 km)
• Manalkadu Beach (14.5 km)
• Nilaavarai Bottomless Well, Puttur. (19.1 km)

Travel Notes

Following are based on the visit to Point Pedro on 2012-03-30.

• The beach is quite polluted with garbage, specially due to the fishing industry.
• Since this is in a restricted area, always visit during day time and be prepared to present a valid identity if needed.