Neduntheevu, Coral island in Jaffna District, Sri Lanka.
Neduntheevu is a coral island in Jaffna District with an oval shape spanning roughly 47 square kilometers. The landscape features shallow coastal areas, low vegetation, and dry scrubland that support diverse native plants and wildlife.
During Dutch colonial rule, administrator Rijckloff van Goens named the island after the Dutch city of Delft and established it as a strategic maritime point. This European influence shaped the island's early development.
Tamil-speaking residents practice traditional fishing and farming, growing papayas and bananas that define much of daily life here. These livelihoods are deeply tied to the surrounding waters and land.
Ferries regularly connect the island to mainland Jaffna, though schedules shift with weather and sea conditions. Plan ahead since travel availability depends on water and climate factors beyond fixed timetables.
Free-roaming herds of horses descended from colonial times wander across the island's open spaces. Structures built from local coral stone sit alongside these animals in an unusual coexistence.
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