The Delft Baobab Tree (sometimes called “Baobab Tree of Delft”) is one of the most fascinating and unusual trees in Sri Lanka. Located on Neduntivu Island (commonly called Delft Island) in the Northern Province, this ancient tree is a popular stop for travelers exploring the island’s otherworldly landscape.
This baobab is believed to have been planted by Arabian traders centuries ago. It’s a living monument, showcasing the island’s rich cultural history and biodiversity.
Key Features
Unique to Sri Lanka: Very few baobabs exist on the island, and Delft Island is the best place to see them up close.
Massive Trunk: The tree’s trunk is huge — wide enough for 4–5 adults to stand inside if hollowed out.
Age: Estimated to be around 400–500 years old.
Species: Believed to be Adansonia digitata, the African baobab species.
History
- Arab Traders: Historians believe Arab merchants brought baobab seeds to Sri Lanka while trading goods like pearls and spices.
- Colonial Interest: During the Portuguese, Dutch, and British periods, Delft Island was a strategic location, and the baobab trees became part of its unique ecosystem.
- Cultural Symbol: The tree today symbolizes the island’s deep historical ties with Africa and the Middle East.
The Delft Baobab Tree is one of the most iconic and mysterious landmarks on Neduntivu (Delft Island), Sri Lanka. Here’s what you can expect to see and experience at this unique attraction:
1. The Ancient Baobab Tree
- Believed to be over 400 years old, this massive baobab tree is a botanical wonder, with a hollow trunk that can reportedly fit several people inside.
- Its unusual shape and wide girth (more than 7 meters in circumference) make it a fascinating subject for photography and local folklore.
2. Historical Significance
- The baobab is not native to Sri Lanka; it’s thought to have been brought by Arab traders centuries ago, possibly as early as the 16th century.
- Locals believe the tree was used as a shelter or prison cell, adding to its mystique.
3. Instagram-Worthy Backdrop
- With its thick, gnarled trunk and strange silhouette against the open skies of Delft, it’s a photographer’s dream, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- The isolation of the site adds to its appeal, with minimal modern distractions.
4. Natural Surroundings
- The tree sits in a sparse, dry landscape unique to Delft Island, surrounded by low-lying shrubs and wild ponies that roam freely.
- Nearby, you can spot traditional coral walls, remnants of colonial structures, and native flora adapted to Delft’s arid conditions.
What What You Can Expect at the Delft Baobab Tree
The Delft Baobab Tree, located on Neduntivu Island (commonly called Delft Island), is one of the oldest and most fascinating trees in Sri Lanka. Believed to be over 400 years old, this African-origin baobab is truly a marvel—brought by ancient Arab traders centuries ago.
Quick Visit:
Most visitors spend about 15–20 minutes at the tree while exploring other sights around Delft.
Majestic Size:
The trunk is enormous, with a circumference of over 7 meters (23 feet). It’s so wide that about 5 to 6 adults can join hands around it!
Unique Appearance:
Its swollen, bottle-like trunk and short, stubby branches give it a strange, almost mythical look, making it seem like something out of a fantasy story.
Historical Curiosity:
Local stories say the hollow inside the trunk was once used to house animals during colonial times, making it a natural “barn”!
Peaceful Setting:
Surrounded by the rustic beauty of Delft Island—dusty roads, wild ponies, and ancient ruins—the baobab sits in a serene, almost untouched environment.
Photographer’s Dream:
Its massive structure against the open island skies makes it a perfect Instagram spot for dramatic shots.
Location
- Island: Neduntivu (Delft Island), Jaffna District, Northern Province, Sri Lanka.
- Landmarks Nearby: Delft Fort, Queen’s Tower, wild ponies roaming the island.
How to Get There
- First Step: Travel to Jaffna.
- From Jaffna: Take a bus or tuk-tuk to Kurikkaduwan (KKD) Jetty.
- Ferry Ride: Board the public ferry to Delft Island (about 45 minutes).
- On the Island: You’ll need a tuk-tuk, tractor, or jeep tour to get around — Delft is a big island with no public transport.
Step 1: Travel from Jaffna to Kurikadduwan Jetty
- By Bus: Take Bus No. 776 from the Jaffna Central Bus Stand to Kurikadduwan Jetty. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around LKR 90–200. Buses typically depart early in the morning, with the first one leaving around 6:30 AM.
- By Tuk-Tuk: For a more direct route, hire a tuk-tuk from Jaffna to Kurikadduwan Jetty. This option costs approximately LKR 2,000 and offers flexibility in departure times.
Step 2: Ferry from Kurikadduwan to Delft Island
- Ferry Schedule:
- Departing Kurikadduwan: Ferries to Delft Island typically depart at 8:15 AM, 2:30 PM, and 4:15 PM.
- Returning from Delft: Return ferries usually leave at 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM.
- Duration: The ferry ride takes about 1 hour.
- Cost: Ferry rides are often free of charge, but it’s advisable to carry some cash in case of changes.
- Capacity & Priority: Ferries can accommodate up to 100 passengers, with priority given to local residents. During peak times or festivals, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.
- Ferry Types: The Sri Lanka Navy operates sturdier ferries, especially for the 8:15 AM departure, offering a smoother ride. Later ferries might be smaller wooden boats, which can be rougher, especially in windy conditions.
Step 3: Exploring Delft Island
- Local Transport: Upon arrival, local tuk-tuk drivers are available to offer island tours, including a visit to the Baobab Tree. A 4–5 hour tour typically costs between LKR 1,500–2,500.
- Attractions: Besides the Baobab Tree, Delft Island boasts wild ponies, Dutch colonial ruins, and pristine beaches.
Facilities & Tips
Seasickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, especially for the afternoon ferries, which can be rougher.
Parking: Limited parking is available at Kurikadduwan Jetty.
Amenities: Facilities on Delft Island are basic. It’s advisable to bring essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (May to September) offers calmer seas and more comfortable travel conditions.
The Delft Baobab Tree, a remarkable natural landmark on Delft Island (Neduntheevu) in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, is accessible to visitors free of charge. There are no entrance fees, permits, or tickets required to visit this ancient tree.
Recommended Time to Spend
You’ll need about 20 to 30 minutes to fully explore the Delft Baobab Tree. It’s a quick but memorable stop where you can admire the tree’s enormous trunk, step inside its hollow base, and snap some great photos. If you’re combining it with a full Delft Island tour, plan to spend a few hours on the island overall to truly enjoy all its unique sights.
Restrictions & Dress Code
There are no strict restrictions or special dress codes for visiting the Delft Baobab Tree. However, since it’s located on a culturally rich and traditional island, it’s recommended to dress modestly — lightweight, comfortable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is ideal.
Also, wear comfortable shoes, as the ground around the tree and the island can be sandy and uneven. Respect the natural site by not carving on or damaging the tree — it’s a living piece of history!
Events & Activities
There are no annual festivals or special events specifically held at the Delft Baobab Tree itself. However, visiting the tree is usually included in guided Delft Island tours, which offer a full day of activities such as:
- Island jeep or tractor tours: Explore the island’s key landmarks, including the Baobab Tree, Delft Fort, the Queen’s Tower, and the famous wild ponies.
- Storytelling by locals: Some guides share fascinating stories about the Baobab’s origins and the island’s colonial past.
- Wildlife spotting: Look out for the island’s unique wild horses and rare bird species during your tour.
Most visitors experience the Baobab as part of a half-day or full-day Delft Island excursion — it’s a simple but memorable stop during the journey.
Who Should Visit the Delft Baobab Tree?
The Delft Baobab Tree is a must-visit for a variety of travelers, especially:
- History Buffs – Those fascinated by ancient trade routes, colonial history, and rare species will appreciate the story behind this 400-year-old tree.
- Nature Lovers – If you love unique trees and unusual landscapes, the giant, bottle-shaped Baobab will amaze you.
- Photographers – The tree’s massive trunk and surreal surroundings make for striking, dramatic photos.
- Families with Curious Kids – Kids will find the tree’s size and shape absolutely fascinating, making it a fun educational stop.
- Adventure Seekers – Since getting to Delft Island involves a ferry ride and island exploration, it’s perfect for those who love off-the-beaten-path adventures.
- Cultural Explorers – Visiting the Baobab Tree along with other Delft landmarks offers deep insight into the island’s multi-layered history and unique way of life.
What You’ll Benefit From Visiting the Delft Baobab Tree
A visit to the Delft Baobab Tree offers much more than just admiring a unique tree — it’s an enriching experience that connects you with nature, history, and local culture:
- Cultural Immersion: Delft Island is home to a unique community with deep ties to Tamil traditions. Visiting the Baobab Tree offers insight into their lifestyle and the island’s heritage.
- Historical Insights: The Baobab’s arrival on the island and its significance provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s colonial past and trade routes.
- Peaceful Escape: The serene, untouched atmosphere of the island lets you disconnect from the busyness of modern life. It’s a perfect place for relaxation and quiet contemplation.
- Natural Beauty: The Baobab’s towering presence and the surrounding landscapes make for a calming and awe-inspiring experience.
- Photography Opportunities: The Baobab Tree, with its giant trunk and surreal surroundings, is a dream for photographers, providing countless stunning shots.
Instagrammable Spots at the Delft Baobab Tree
The Delft Baobab Tree and its surrounding areas offer plenty of photo-worthy moments that will light up your Instagram feed:
- The Baobab’s Majestic Trunk: The towering trunk of the Baobab is the focal point of your visit, with its gnarled, wide base making for dramatic shots.
- The Baobab Tree with the Sunset: Capture the silhouette of the tree against the vibrant orange hues of the setting sun for a stunning shot.
- The Surrounding Landscape: The rugged island terrain, with sparse vegetation and distant hills, provides a stark contrast to the giant Baobab, making for a mesmerizing backdrop.
- The Coastal Views: If you venture towards the island’s shore, you can photograph the Baobab with the sparkling Indian Ocean in the background.
- Close-Up of the Baobab’s Unique Features: Zoom in on the tree’s thick, bottle-shaped trunk or its sparse branches to capture its unique texture and structure.
- Wild Horses with the Baobab: If you’re lucky, you may capture some of the wild horses of Delft Island grazing near the tree — a rare and special photo op.
Food Availability Near the Delft Baobab Tree
Although Delft Island is quite remote, you’ll still find a few welcoming spots to enjoy a meal, grab a drink, or simply relax:
- Cafés and Cool Bars:
- Delft kathir cafe
- Vijitha Café & Cool Bar
- Eleven to Eleven Pizza
- Green Grass Hotel & Restaurant
- Restaurants:
- Delft Tourist Resort
- Toilets:
- Public toilets are available at larger establishments like Delft Tourist Resort and Green Grass Hotel & Restaurant for visitor convenience.
Hotels Near Delft Baobab Tree
While Delft Island itself has very limited accommodation options, visitors typically stay in Jaffna and take a ferry to Delft. Here are some comfortable hotels you can choose from:
- Jetwing Jaffna
- Valampuri Hotel
- Green Grass Hotel
- Tilko Jaffna City Hotel
- Jaffna Heritage Hotel
- Jetwing Mahesa Bhawan
- Thambu Illam
- Fox Jaffna
- Nallur Holidays Inn
- Yarl Mercury Inn
- Flamingo Villa
- The Thinnai
What Was My Experience at the Delft Baobab Tree?
Visiting the Delft Baobab Tree was a surreal and humbling experience. As soon as I approached it, I was struck by its immense size and ancient presence—this tree is believed to be over 400 years old, possibly planted during the Portuguese era. It stands like a natural monument in the flat, arid landscape of Delft Island, unlike anything else I’ve seen in Sri Lanka.
Pros:
- Unique historical value – It’s one of the very few baobab trees in Sri Lanka, making it extremely rare.
- Great photo opportunity – The sheer size and unusual shape make it perfect for photography.
- Quiet and peaceful surroundings – The area around the tree is calm, with very few tourists, so you can take your time and really soak it in.
- Free access – There’s no entrance fee, and you can visit it at any time of day.
Cons:
- Remote location – Delft Island is a bit challenging to reach and requires careful planning.
- Lack of facilities – There are no information boards, restrooms, or shelters at the site.
- Can get hot and dry – Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, especially during midday visits.
Final Thought:
If you’re a fan of natural wonders, unique trees, or hidden historical gems, the Delft Baobab Tree is a must-visit. It offers not just a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s ecological diversity, but also into its colonial past. Just be prepared for a rustic adventure getting there.