Mannar Island

Mannar Island is a dry landmass covering around 130 square kilometers in northwestern Sri Lanka, connected to the mainland by a causeway. The land is marked by stretches of sand and vegetation scattered across a flat landscape.

From 1914 to 1964, the island operated a rail and ferry connection that linked India with Colombo via Talaimannar and Dhanushkodi. This route served as a major transport link for people and goods across the region.

The Tamil name of this island means 'the raised place of sand', reflecting how the terrain was naturally formed over time. You can still see this sandy, flat character today as you walk across the land.

The island is easily reached by road via the causeway, and the flat landscape makes it straightforward to explore. Visitors should prepare for hot, dry weather and bring sun protection for their visit.

The island is home to the largest wind power facility in Sri Lanka, producing 100 megawatts of electricity for the national grid. This modern installation stands out dramatically against the windswept terrain and is a striking feature of the landscape.

Location: Mannar District

Capital city: Mannar

GPS coordinates: 9.05000,79.83333

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02