By systematically developing the tourism sector, the people of the Northern Province can be enabled to stand firmly on their own feet economically. The Northern Provincial Administration will provide full cooperation for this. At the same time, the contribution of the private sector is also indispensable for the growth of this sector, stressed Hon. Governor of Northern of Province N.Vethanayahan.
The launch ceremony of two books prepared by the Northern Province Tourism Bureau — Goddess Shakthi Trail and Tourism Itineraries — was held this evening, – on Thursday, 20 November 2025, at the auditorium of the Office of the Chief Secretary of the Northern Province. While participating as the chief guest, officially releasing the books and delivering the keynote address, the Governor made the above remarks.
In his speech, he further stated: “The Northern Province shines as one of Sri Lanka’s most important tourist destinations. Our geographical location, culture, natural resources, and religious values greatly strengthen this position. After the challenges of the past, our province is now travelling on a firm path of growth in the tourism sector.
The fact that Lonely Planet magazine has identified Jaffna as one of the top global destinations worth visiting in 2026 is a great honour for us. This is an international recognition of the uniqueness of the Northern Province and the efforts we have been carrying forward.
Visitors to the Northern Province have frequently asked where they should go and what they should see. These books have been created precisely as an answer to those questions. The book Northern Tourism Itineraries, released today, will serve as a systematic and informative guide for both local and foreign tourists. Similarly, Goddess Shakthi Trail is an important publication that documents the history, spiritual significance, and cultural traditions of the Shakthi temples in the province.
When we consider the importance given to the Ramayana in India, particularly in North India, we take pride in the fact that the North has 12 major sites connected with the Ramayana. Details about these sites will soon be published as a separate book. In the context where air and sea connectivity with India has been eased, this will help increase the arrival of Indian tourists.
The Northern Province is a key point in the cultural linkage of the Indian subcontinent. Therefore, on this occasion, I request the Indian Consulate to extend its cooperation to further increase the arrival of Indian tourists.
The development of the tourism sector will directly improve people’s livelihoods. Employment opportunities will be created, small and medium-scale enterprises will be revitalised, and the rural economy will improve. This is what will pave the way for the self-reliance of the North,” he said.
The event was attended by Ms. Ramya, Head of the Indian Consulate, Jaffna; Mrs. Thanuja Murugesan, Chief Secretary of the Northern Province; Mr. A. Pathinathan, Chairman of the Northern Province Tourism Bureau; Mr. A. Sothinathan, Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government – Northern Province; Mr. S. Muralitharan, District Secretary of Kilinochchi; Mr. K. Kanageswaran, District Secretary of Mannar; and many others.
