Global travel publication Lonely Planet has named Jaffna as one of the Top 25 Best Places to Visit in the World for 2026.

The selection of Jaffna underscores Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and historical heritage and highlights the country’s ongoing efforts to promote regional diversity as a part of its tourism development strategy.

The inclusion of Jaffna alongside other iconic destinations marks a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s international tourism profile.

Founded in 1970, Lonely Planet is one of the world’s most trusted travel media brands, with more than 150 million guidebooks sold globally and an extensive digital reach.

These are the 25 best places to travel in 2026, according to Lonely Planet

1. Peru, South America
2. Jaffna, Sri Lanka
3. Maine, USA
4. Cádiz, Spain
5. Réunion, Africa
6. Botswana, Africa
7. Cartagena, Colombia
8. Finland, Europe
9. Tipperary, Ireland
10. Mexico City
11. Quetzaltenango, Guatemala
12. British Colombia, Canada
13. Sardinia, Italy
14. Liberdade, São Paulo
15. Utrecht, Netherlands
16. Barbados, Caribbean
17. Jeju-Do, South Korea
18. North Island, New Zealand
19. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
20. Quy Nhon, Vietnam
21. Siem Reap, Cambodia
22. Phuket, Thailand
23. Ikra-Flinders Ranges and Outback, South Australia
24. Tunisia, Africa
25. Solomon Islands, Oceania