North Coast

The east coast of Sri Lanka is a region on the eastern coast of the island nation of Sri Lanka, facing the Bay of Bengal.

Climate

Average temperature remains at 30 degrees Celsius with a humidity level of 70%.

 

Getting There

Accessible via the Cultural Triangle along the A6 route the commute will last around 2 ½ hours, Batticaloa is accessible via the A 11 route.

Accommodation

Many up market resorts have come up in the recent years among many of the mid range guest houses. Maalu Mallu resort and Chaaya Blue are among the highly recommended out here.

 

Food & Drink

Extensive menus which feature fresh seafood dishes are a common find in these parts; many of the hotels serve international Cuisine and delicious local cuisine. Beach BBQ’s are also popular on these beaches.

 

Shopping

Fresh seafood is the best buy in these towns, the novelty being, the opportunity to purchase the same straight from the boats.

 

The East Coast

Beautiful turquoise hued crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches are the undeniable trademarks of the east and is undisputedly the most picturesque of all coastal lines. The trio Nilaveli, Arugambay and Passikudha are the most popular beaches in these parts and its main city Trincomalee is home to one of the best natural harbors and is the main city in the vicinity. The calm clear waters of the east and the beautiful coral reefs make this beach destination perfect for snorkeling.

Trincomalee

Home to the finest natural harbor in the world, this city has remained a busy port city since the days of ancient kingdoms.

 

Fort Fredricks

Fort Fredricks has remained the biggest showpiece of Trincomalee and was originally built by the Portuguese only to be captured by the Dutch followed by the British.

 

Swami Rock

A steep cliff from where a spectacular view if offered of the coastline and of the town, at it’s peak is a shrine dedicated to God Shiva named Thirukoneswaram Kovil .

 

Lovers Leap

A tragic spot where a fair Dutch maiden leapt to her death in undeniable pain at the departure of her beau. Yet another love story gone wrong.

 

Dutch Bay

A popular spot where locals congregate for a leisurely stroll in the evenings, many colonial period buildings are also visible from this point

 

Velgama Vehera Temple

An ancient temple with ancient Buddhist artifacts.

 

Nilavelie

To the north of Trincomalee is the most popular beach in these parts; the water is crystal clear and shallow allowing visitors to walk hundreds of meters into the sea and making it popular for snorkeling and the white sandy beaches making it a wonderful spot for sun lovers.

 

Kanniyai Hot Springs

Sacred to the Hindu community as it is believed that these hot springs are a creation of the most revered God Vishnu.

 

Pigeon Island– Situated around 2km off the coast of Nilaveli is this island ideal for snorkeling, diving and a dip in the sea.

Coral Island-Home to well preserved live reef also shelters abundant colorful tropical fish. The best spot on the island for snorkeling.

 

Batticaloa- To the South of Trincomalee lies this former Dutch stronghold which is popular for the nearby pristine beach Passekudha, which is a good destination for swimming as the waters are calm.

 

Passekudha / Kalkudha-Beautiful beaches with clear calm waters make these ideal spots for sea bathing and swimming. Pasikudha bay is a popular destination for windsurfing and water skiing.

 

The Fort– The Dutch built Fort is well preserved and offers a spectacular view of the Batticaloa lagoon.

 

Maduru oya National Park-At its center lies the Maduru oya reservoir, various fauna along with big game such as Elephants, deer, sloth bears are seen here among a variety of avian species and several species of monkeys.

 

Gal Oya National Park– Situated in the regional capital Ampara, this park is mainly toured by boat and is home to the man built Lake Senanayake Samudra. Elephants being the main attraction here apart from the lake itself.

 

Maligawila– Situated in the rural village of Monaragala (Peacock Rock) are the remains of a monastery and two ancient Buddha statues carved from Limestone which have been restored in the recent years, the surrounding area adds  a mysterious appeal to this former monastery complex.

 

Detamal Vihara– Showcases a red brick stupa along; the stonework resembles work of the Polonnaruwa era.

 

Arugambay

A surfing hotspot, ranked 3rd among the best beaches in the world is now an international venue for prestigious surfing competitions held annually.

 

Lahugala National Park

Popular for spotting elephants and abundant aquatic avian species.

 

Magul Maha Vihara

To the east of the park in the midst of the jungle is this temple complex which is often misunderstood to be the location where King Kavan Tissa and Queen Viharamaahdevi tied the knot.

 

Yala East National Park

Boasts of Big game such as Elephants, Deer, water buffalo, Leopard, many varieties of bird life are also a common site.

 

Kumana Bird Sanctuary

A haven for aquatic bird species as at its center is the Kumana tank.

 

Okanda

Another surfing hotspot situated around 30km from Arugambay, it is also home to a Hindu shrine dedicated to God Kataragama as it is believed to be the spot where Lord Kataragama set foot on the island initially.

 

Kudimbigala Forest Hermitage

The many caves which are found here were occupied by monks in the ancient days.