Where the wild horses roam

An affirmation of our commitment to conserving Sri Lanka’s diverse natural and cultural heritage.

The second largest island of the Palk Strait in Northern Sri Lanka, Delft is home to a captivating population of wild horses, a legacy left behind by the Portuguese.

The history of Delft has been shaped by British, Portuguese and Dutch colonists who left enduring impressions of their stunning lime and coral architecture and famed wild horses.

The second largest among Sri Lanka’s northern islands, Delft is home to nearly 5,000 residents and is renowned for its unique wild horse population. Located in the Palk Strait southwest of Jaffna, Delft was named in honour of the Dutch City of ‘Delft’ by a colonial Dutch Governor of Ceylon, Rijckloff van Goens. Both the natural and cultural history of Delft has been shaped by Sri Lanka’s colonial relationships with British, Portuguese and Dutch colonists who left enduring impressions of their presence on the island ranging from its stunning lime and coral architecture to its famed horses.

Dilmah Conservation is in the process of establishing a programme in Delft in an effort to preserve its distinctive natural and cultural heritage. Alleviating concerns relating to the scarcity of drinking water which is detrimentally affecting both the island’s residents and its diminishing wild horse population, has been identified as a priority. As such, measures towards installing a solar-powered pump at a well with water suitable for the horses’ consumption are underway. An equine census, mapping of underground water sources and a natural resource profile will also be undertaken in order to enhance environmental conservation efforts. It is expected that the programme will be further expanded to support the livelihood development of local communities while promoting the preservation of Delft’s natural wonder and cultural heritage in a manner that ensures greater sustainability.

The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.

- Charles Darwin

The islanders of Delft, like the wild horses, depend on the fresh water supply at ‘Devil’s Well’; one of the only fresh water sources on the island. They too are faced with the hardship of finding fresh and clean drinking water for everyday necessities. Today, a largely fishing based community, the inhabitants of Delft also produce unique Palmyrah handicrafts. Although the island was isolated from the rest of the country during the three decade long armed conflict, it is now easily accessible from the Sri Lankan mainland.