Kalmunai Old Surveyor Tower

Kalmunai Point, an immensely strategically significant location, also played a pivotal role in the mapping of Sri Lanka. Although it lies relatively close to Jaffna city in terms of geographical distance, reaching Kalmunai Point by land requires several hours of travel.

In 1957, the Surveying Department established by the British erected surveying towers across the islands, including Kalmunai Point, now referred to as the Old Surveyor Tower, one among hundreds.

To reach this site, one must embark on a lengthy journey from the Mannar-Jaffna main road, navigating a challenging path. The route involves turning at the Paramankirai area and proceeding until the end of the Poonagari Kawattarimunai road. Along this picturesque route, travelers are treated to breathtaking views of lagoons, mangroves, saltwater, and freshwater ponds.

The Kalmunai surveying tower, constructed from black stone and limestone, stands at a height of approximately 10 meters. In close proximity, a naval base operates, and there is also a Christian pilgrimage site.

During the war, this location served as a base for launching artillery attacks on Jaffna city by terrorist groups due to its remote and inaccessible land route. Despite the conflict, this tower remained unharmed and is now a protected site under the Archaeology Act.