Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
and entry point to India, just 30km away, and continues to host many refugees. Thousands
of Muslims were driven out by the LTTE in 1990.
In many ways the island still feels like it's in recovery mode, with dusty streets, a
slightly forlorn appearance and more than its share of trash and mosquitoes. That said, the
people are welcoming and there's a good choice of budget accommodation.
Mannar Town
Reached via a 3km-long causeway from the mainland, Mannar Town is a somewhat
scruffy transport hub. There's not that much for tourists, but as virtually all accommoda-
tion is based here, this is where most travellers gather.
Star Fortress
FORT
An imposing Portuguese-Dutch construction, this star-shaped fortress is situated right by
the causeway to the island and ringed by a moat. It's desperately in need of renovation, but
the ruins are atmospheric and contain the roofless remains of a chapel, dungeon and Dutch
belltower. Climb the ramparts for an impressive perspective of the town and Gulf of Man-
nar.
The Fort was built in a quadrangular layout by the Portuguese in 1560, but captured in
1658 by the Dutch, who rebuilt it in 1695, adding four bastions. A century later, the colo-
nial merry-go-round turned again as the British, drawn to Mannar by the pearl banks off-
shore occupied the structure.
Baobab Tree
LANDMARK
(Palimunai Rd)
An offbeat attraction, this ancient baobab tree was allegedly planted by Arab traders. It has
a circumference of 19.5m and is believed to be over 700 years old. In Africa the baobab is
sometimes called the upside-down tree (because its branches look like roots); locals in
Mannar refer to it as the
ali gaha
(elephant tree) since its tough, gnarled bark resembles
the skin of an elephant. It's 1.2km northeast of the town centre.
