trincomalee trip plan

Exploring the Best Things to Do in Trincomalee: A Complete Guide

Planning your next adventure to Trincomalee, the enchanting port city on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast? Finding a definitive guide to all of its wonders can be pretty overwhelming.

Having navigated through its vibrant landscapes myself and collated essential information about the top attractions there, I offer you this tailored guide. Dive in, as an unforgettable journey through Trincomalee’s rich histories, panoramic views and local flavors awaits you!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Snorkeling at Pigeon Island is a must – do activity in Trincomalee. With colorful fish, coral reefs, and even blacktip reef sharks, it offers an amazing underwater experience.
• Whale watching in Trincomalee allows you to witness majestic blue whales and other marine life up close. Don’t forget your camera for this unforgettable adventure!
• Fort Frederick and the Koneshwaram Temple are historic sites that should not be missed. They provide stunning views, rich history, and a glimpse into Trincomalee’s cultural heritage.
• When exploring Trincomalee, don’t forget to relax at Dutch Bay Beach and try delicious local cuisine at restaurants like Rice and Curry Hut or Crab Fusion.

Top Must-Do Activities in Trincomalee

Snorkel at Pigeon Island, spot majestic blue whales while whale watching, explore the historic Fort Frederick, visit the ancient Koneshwaram Temple on Swami Rock, relax and soak up the sun at Dutch Bay Beach, and take a fascinating tour through the Maritime Museum.

Snorkel at Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island is a must-see spot. I had the best time snorkeling there! It’s full of colorful fish and bright coral reefs. The water is crystal clear, making it perfect for seeing underwater life.

There are two parts to Pigeon Island – one has sandy shores, while the other boasts rocky edges. Both parts offer amazing views under the sea. You can even see blacktip reef sharks if you’re lucky! Be sure to wear good water shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks and corals though.

Go Whale Watching

If you’re an adventure traveler visiting Trincomalee, one of the top must-do activities is going whale watching. Trincomalee is known for its breathtaking coastline and abundant marine life, making it a perfect spot to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Hop on a boat and set sail into the deep blue sea, where you can witness the awe-inspiring sight of massive blue whales swimming gracefully through the water. As you glide across the waves, keep your eyes peeled for other species like dolphins and sperm whales too.

It’s an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with nature and marvel at these magnificent animals up close. Don’t forget your camera to capture this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Explore Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick is a historical site in Trincomalee that you shouldn’t miss. It was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later captured by the Dutch. As you explore this fort, you’ll see old cannons, a chapel, and other remnants of its past.

Be sure to climb up to the ramparts for stunning views of the coastline. It’s a great place to learn about Trincomalee’s history and take some memorable photos.

Visit the Koneshwaram Temple

When you visit Trincomalee, one of the must-visit places is the Koneshwaram Temple. This ancient Hindu temple sits on top of Swami Rock, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.

As you explore this sacred site, you’ll come across shrines dedicated to various deities and a magnificent statue of Shiva. The temple has a rich history dating back to the 3rd century BC and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the spiritual ambiance and admire the intricate architecture of this cultural gem in Trincomalee.

Relax at Dutch Bay Beach

One of the best things to do in Trincomalee is to relax at Dutch Bay Beach. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere.

You can soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or simply unwind with a good book. The beach is also great for swimming and snorkeling, so don’t forget your gear! With its picturesque surroundings and calm waters, Dutch Bay Beach is the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation during your trip to Trincomalee.

Take a tour through the Maritime Museum

At the Maritime Museum in Trincomalee , you can learn all about the city’s rich maritime history. This museum is a must-visit for adventure travelers who are interested in ships and naval artifacts.

Inside, you’ll find exhibits that showcase ancient ship models, navigational instruments, and historical artifacts from different eras. As you explore the museum, don’t miss the chance to see the impressive collection of old cannons and anchors outside.

It’s a fascinating glimpse into Trincomalee’s seafaring past.

Where to Stay in Trincomalee

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Trincomalee, you have plenty of options. There are hotels, guesthouses, and even beach resorts that cater to different budgets and preferences.

If you’re looking for luxury accommodations, there are several high-end resorts located along the coastline that offer stunning views and top-notch amenities. For those on a tighter budget, you can find affordable guesthouses and small hotels in the city center or near the popular attractions.

No matter where you choose to stay, make sure to book in advance during peak tourist seasons as Trincomalee tends to get crowded.

Getting Around Trincomalee

There are various options for getting around Trincomalee, such as renting a tuk-tuk, hiring a driver, or taking public transport. Whether you want to explore the city independently or have someone guide you through its streets, there’s a convenient mode of transportation for everyone.

Keep reading to find out more about the best ways to navigate Trincomalee and make the most of your trip.

Rent a Tuk-tuk

To explore Trincomalee at your own pace, renting a tuk-tuk is a great option. These three-wheeled vehicles are easy to maneuver and allow you to go wherever you want. With a tuk-tuk, you can drive along the coastline, visit historical sites like Fort Frederick and the Koneshwaram Temple, or simply discover hidden gems around the city.

It’s an exciting way to immerse yourself in the local culture and have the freedom to stop whenever something catches your eye. Just remember to bring your driver’s license and negotiate the rental price before hopping on your own little adventure!

Hire a Driver

If you prefer not to drive yourself, hiring a driver is a convenient way to get around Trincomalee. A driver can take you to all the must-see attractions without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with parking.

They can provide local insights and recommendations, making your trip more enjoyable and informative. Whether you want to explore the historical sites, visit the temples, or simply relax at the beaches, a driver can tailor your itinerary according to your preferences.

Sit back, relax, and let someone else do the driving while you soak in the sights and sounds of Trincomalee.

Take Public Transport

To explore Trincomalee, you can use public transport. It’s an affordable option and a great way to experience the local culture. Buses are available throughout the city, making it easy to get around.

Just keep in mind that they can be crowded at times. You can also take a tuk-tuk, which is a fun and popular mode of transportation in Sri Lanka. These three-wheeled vehicles are easy to find and will take you wherever you need to go.

So if you’re looking for an authentic adventure while getting around Trincomalee, consider taking public transport.

Best Local Restaurants in Trincomalee

Trincomalee has some amazing local restaurants where you can try delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. Here are my top picks:

• Rice and Curry Hut: This cozy restaurant serves authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry dishes. The flavors are bold and the portions are generous.
• Crab Fusion: If you love seafood, this is the place to go. They serve mouthwatering crab dishes cooked with a fusion of flavors.
• That’s So Waffly: Craving something sweet? Head to this popular dessert spot for delicious waffles topped with fresh fruits, ice cream, and drizzled with syrup.
• Dutch Bank Café: Located near the beach, this café offers a range of international dishes as well as Sri Lankan favorites. Try their seafood platter for a tasty treat.
• Mangrove Escapes Restaurant: Situated on an island in Trincomalee harbor, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience surrounded by mangroves. Their menu features a mix of Sri Lankan and Western dishes.

Tips and Recommendations for a Memorable Trip to Trincomalee

When planning your trip to Trincomalee, there are a few tips and recommendations that can help ensure you have a memorable experience. First, make sure to pack sunscreen and insect repellent, as the sun can be strong and there may be mosquitos in certain areas.

Secondly, it’s a good idea to bring comfortable shoes for exploring the attractions and beaches. Thirdly, consider hiring a local guide who can provide valuable insights into the history and culture of Trincomalee.

Additionally, try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season to enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. Lastly, don’t forget to sample the delicious local cuisine while you’re in Trincomalee – it’s definitely worth trying!

In conclusion, Trincomalee is a port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for adventure travelers. From snorkeling at Pigeon Island to whale watching and exploring historical sites like Fort Frederick and the Koneshwaram Temple, there’s something for everyone.

With beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine, and friendly locals, Trincomalee is definitely a destination worth visiting. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this hidden gem of Sri Lanka!

1. What are some of the best things to do in Trincomalee?

Some of the best things to do in Trincomalee include visiting the famous Koneswaram Temple, exploring the beautiful beaches like Nilaveli and Uppuveli, going on a whale watching tour, and snorkeling or diving in Pigeon Island National Park.

2. Is it safe to visit Trincomalee?

Yes, it is generally safe to visit Trincomalee. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take normal precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and following local laws and customs.

3. When is the best time to visit Trincomalee?

The best time to visit Trincomalee is during its dry season from May to October when you can enjoy sunny weather and calm seas for snorkeling or diving activities.

4. Are there any cultural sites worth visiting in Trincomalee?

Yes, besides the Koneswaram Temple, there are other cultural sites worth visiting in Trincomalee such as Fort Frederick, Swami Rock viewpoint for panoramic views of the city and bay area, and hot springs at Kanniyai Amman Kovil temple complex.

Melanie Cho is a passionate traveler, storyteller, and cultural enthusiast with a heart that bridges the landscapes of Korea and Sri Lanka. As a 28-year-old Korean woman who spent her formative years splitting time between these two captivating worlds, Melanie’s unique upbringing ignited her love for exploration and connection. Her intimate knowledge of both cultures enables her to share authentic insights, captivating stories, and practical tips that inspire fellow adventurers to embark on unforgettable journeys.

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Explore Trincomalee

Plan Your Trip to Trincomalee: Best of Trincomalee Tourism

Essential trincomalee.

Trending in the forums

Trincomalee Is Great For

Scuba diving.

Whale Watching

• Amaranthé Bay Resort
• Sober Island Resort
• Trinco Blu By Cinnamon
• Marble Beach Air Force Resort
• Margosa Bay
• Ubay Seafood Restaurant
• Be Cool Juice Bar & Sea Food Restaurant
• Cafe On The 18th
• Rice 'n' Curry
• Fernando's Beach Bar
• Marble Beach
• Koneswaram Temple
• Sri Lanka Navy Museum
• Fort Frederick
• Arisimale Beach
• Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour Trincomalee
• Whale Watching in Trincomalee by Catamaran cruise
• Whale & Dolphin Watching Trincomalee
• Pigeon island snorkeling tour in Trincomalee
• Snorkeling in Trincomalee

• The Netherlands
• Photography

• Work with me
• What’s in my camera bag

9 Incredible things to do in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka's unexplored east coast

If you’re interested in finding the best beaches in Sri Lanka you’ll most likely end up at the east coast. The Trincomalee district is home to untouched coastlines and Nilaveli Beach is a good location to go for whale watching or diving.

Trincomalee itself is a small coastal town that never fails to amuse. You’ll find diversity, culture and religion by visiting the Koneswaram Temple and Fort Frederick. Trinco surprisingly has something for everybody.

These are my absolute favourite things to do in Trincomalee and surrounds.

9 THINGS TO DO IN TRINCOMALEE, SRI LANKA

1 | visit the koneswaram temple.

Trincomalee has some interesting Hindu temples to offer. One of them is the Koneswaram Kovil located between the walls of Fort Frederick. The colourful Koneswaram Temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is really appealing to see during your stay in Trinco.

From the viewpoint next to the Koneswaram Temple you overlook one of the biggest natural harbours. Don’t let the big statue have all your attention, walking around the temple is really interesting and the details are attractive. Going inside the temple is not a problem if you respect religious customs.

A fun thing I stumbled on while doing research is the fact that I’ve seen several different pictures of the Shiva statue. It looks like they change the statue every year. If anybody knows the reason for this, I’ll find it really interesting so be free to let me know in the comments.

THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Koneswaram Temple, Trincomalee

Opening hours |  Daily 06:00 – 13:00 and 16:00 – 18:45

2 | RELAX AT UPPUVELI BEACH

Most travellers that visit Trincomalee in Sri Lanka take Uppuveli as their base to explore the surrounded area. Uppuveli Beach is a small coastal town with plenty of trendy restaurants and a great overall atmosphere. From Uppuveli you can easily plan a whale watching trip or a visit to nearby Nilaveli Beach and Pigeon Island. While the other side of the town is your entrance to Fort Frederick and the Koneswaram Temple.

Where | Uppuveli Beach, Trincomalee

3 | HANGOUT AT FERNANDO’S BAR

A great atmosphere directly at the beach makes Fernando’s the perfect place to hangout in Uppuveli. During the day you can enjoy fresh juices while relaxing on a sunbed. In the late afternoon, you can savour some sunset drinks while chilling in a hammock. Fernando’s Bar has both good local and western food on the menu. To be honest I think there are better dining options in Trincomalee.

Where | Fernando’s Bar, Trincomalee

Opening hours | Sunday 07:30 – 21:30, Saturday 07:30 – 00:00

4 | VISIT FORT FREDERICK

Fort Frederick was once built by the Portuguese and is now used as an army base. Inside the Trincomalee Fort prevails a nice atmosphere and there is a lot of greenery to be found. The fort is home to many deers and the world-famous Koneswaram Temple. Just before you reach the temple you’ll find a few market stalls where you can enjoy fresh fruit juices while overlooking Trinco beach. This makes it perfect to visit early in the morning.

Where | Fort Frederick, Trincomalee

Opening hours | Daily 06:00 – 22:00

5 | WALK ALONG THE UNTOUCHED COASTLINE OF NILAVELI BEACH

Nilaveli is a coastal town in the Trincomalee district on the east coast of Sri Lanka. Nilaveli Beach is known for being a quiet and secluded beach where the sand is white and the water is clear. The long untouched coastline of Nilaveli makes it one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. Walking along the palms with your toes in the sand is the perfect way to spend some time relaxing in Trincomalee.

Where | Nilaveli Beach, Trincomalee

How to get to Nilaveli Beach | To get to Nilaveli Beach from Trincomalee you have to take a 20-minute drive up north. The route itself is pretty straight forward, just follow the main road with your rental scooter or take a tuk-tuk.

6 | WANDER AROUND THE SRI PATHIRAKALI AMMAN KOVIL

The Pathirakali Amman Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakhali. The colourful kovil is one of the most interesting Hindu temples you’ll see while travelling in Sri Lanka. The temple is located opposite of the Trinco bus station and is definitely worth a visit. To fully experience the temple and all its little details take a calm walk around the various buildings.

Where | Sri Pathirakali Amman Kovil, Trincomalee

Opening hours | Daily 06:30 – 13:00 and 16:00 – 18:30

7 | HAVE LUNCH AT CAFE ON THE 18TH

This trendy café is definitely one of the hotspots in Trincomalee. They serve good coffee, fresh juices and are well known for their delicious smoothie bowls and paninis.

With a cosy atmosphere, this is the café where you want to be for your breakfast or lunch.

Where | Cafe on the 18th, Trincomalee

Opening hours | Daily 09:00 – 21:00

8 | WHALE WATCHING IN TRINCOMALEE

Trincomalee is often mentioned as the best destination when it comes to whale watching in Sri Lanka. When joining a Whale-watching tour you have the opportunity to encounter Blue whales, dolphins and in some cases Sperm whales. Expect a price of 5.500-6.500 LKR ($30-$35) per person for 2-3 hours of whale watching in Trincomalee.

BEST TIME TO GO WHALE WATCHING IN TRINCOMALEE

The whale watching season in Trincomalee runs from late March till early September. Did you know whale watching in Sri Lanka is good year-round? In Mirissa the season starts December and runs until April. This means Sri Lanka offers around 10 months of whale watching every year.

Cost | 5.500 – 6.500 ($30-$35) per person

9 | GO DIVING OR SNORKELLING AT PIGEON ISLAND

Pigeon Island National park is one of the leading destinations when it comes to diving in Sri Lanka. Pigeon Island is a small island that floats in front of the coastline of Nilaveli Beach. The clear water around the island attracts those who are interested in scuba diving and snorkelling. From Nilaveli it takes only 10 minutes to reach the island by boat.

Entrance | The entrance fee to the Pigeon Island National Park is 1.500 LKR ($8). If you’re snorkelling or diving you don’t set any foot on land which means you don’t have to pay the entrance fee. To reach the island you have to arrange a boat trip which cost around 2.000-4.000 LKR ($11-$21). The boat prices vary depending on how long you plan to stay. Keep in mind that there are some extra costs for renting gear or bring your own.

Where | Pigeon Island, Trincomalee

Cost | 2.000 – 4.000 LKR ($11-$21) per person

WHERE TO EAT IN TRINCOMALEE

NERO KITCHEN | If you’re hungry for Wood Fired pizza or pasta while in Trincomalee, Nero Kitchen is the place to go. Probably the best pizza you’ll find in Sri Lanka.

CAFE’ ON THE 18TH | A cosy cafe that serves good coffee, fresh juices and is well known for its delicious smoothie bowls and paninis.

TONIC’S | Go here for a great choice of local and western dishes that are priced fairly. Ooh, and they serve the best burgers in Trincomalee.

FERNANDO’S BAR | The perfect place for a late afternoon snack and some sunset drinks. You should definitely try their papadum with mango chutney.

TRINCOMALEE | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND TIPS

Where to stay in trincomalee.

The best area to stay in Trincomalee is without a doubt around Uppuveli Beach. The laidback area has a calm vibe and heaps of trendy restaurants to choose from. With a base at Uppuveli, you can easily reach Nilaveli beach or Fort Frederick, therefore I highly recommend it.

Surf Reef Dive Beach Palace | Comfortable, positioned on the beach and close to the main activities in Trincomalee.

OYO 310 Sea Lagoon Beach Hotel | Good rooms, a nice pool and close to Uppuveli beach.

Anantamaa Hotel | Luxurious spacious rooms, a great pool and a good price-quality-ratio.

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon | High-quality rooms, a large swimming pool and an in-house PADI certified diving centre.

Alternatively, search for accommodations in Trincomalee on booking.com .

WEATHER IN TRINCOMALEE | BEST TIME TO VISIT TRINCOMALEE

The average temperature in Trincomalee is 30°C year-round. The best time to visit is between January and September. From October to December you can expect more rainfall.

HOW TO GET AROUND TRINCOMALEE

If you’re looking for the freedom to explore Trincomalee and Nilaveli Beach, renting a scooter is your best option. Renting a scooter is around 1.200 to 1.500 LKR ($6.5-$8) a day and a full tank will cost you 600 LKR ($3.25). Driving a scooter in Trincomalee is safe. It is easier to take a tuk tuk for those who aren’t comfortable with driving a scooter.

HOW TO GET TO TRINCOMALEE

Anuradhapura to trincomalee.

Bus | You can take a direct bus three times a day at the Anuradhapura bus station. The journey to Trincomalee takes around 3 to 3,5 hours.

Cost | 300 LKR ($2)

SIGIRYA TO TRINCOMALEE

Tuk tuk to Inamaluwa | Take a 10-minute tuk tuk to the Inamaluwa bus station.

Cost | 500 LKR ($3.5)

Bus | At the Inamaluwa bus stop take the bus that came from Dambulla to Trincomalee. A 2.5-hour bus ride brings you directly to Trincomalee.

Cost | 130 LKR ($1)

DAMBULLA TO TRINCOMALEE

Bus to Trincomalee | The journey from Dambulla to Trincomalee is straightforward. A 3-hour bus ride brings you directly to Trincomalee.

Cost | 150 LKR ($1)

COLOMBO TO TRINCOMALEE

Bus | A direct, but intense journey. Takes around 7 hours to reach Trincomalee.

STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA | TRAVEL INSURANCE

Though Sri Lanka is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

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12 perfect places to visit in trincomalee (sri lanka) in 2024.

Trincomalee is located on the beautiful East Coast of Sri Lanka and it’s the perfect place for sun seekers, thrill seekers and those hoping to relax.

To ensure you have the best time, I’ve listed 12 perfect places to visit in Trincomalee on your holiday.

To help make this into a full-throttle Trincomalee travel guide, I’ve even included details on how to get to Trincomalee, where to stay and where to eat.

Travellerspoint

Where to stay in Trincomalee

Bradley and I stayed in a place called Pleasant Park , and I would happily recommend it to anyone visiting Trincomalee.

It's cheap, but the rooms are modern and clean, in a superb part of town.

The hosts are really friendly, and even helped us in fixing a part of the tuk tuk that Bradley scratched up on the drive south.

It's also a 2-minute walk from the beach and offered excellent breakfast, wifi and air con. 

I would definitely recommend it.

For more ideas, check out our guide on the best hotels in Trincomalee .

How to get to Trincomalee from Colombo

Most people begin their Sri Lankan adventure in Colombo as it is home to the international airport. 

From here there are a variety of ways to get to Trincomalee.

• ‍ Bus: You can get bus route number 49 which is a tourist style bus that offers air conditioning, comfortable seating and snacks. It’s an overnight bus which leaves at 11pm and it takes around 6 hours. You can book your tickets here. ‍
• Uber: Since you are starting in Colombo, the capital, you can make use of Uber. It should cost around LKR9,843-13,092 (40-60 pounds) with your luggage. Use Revolut to get the best exchange rates. If you have four people that works out around 12.50 (roughly) which isn’t a bad price for aircon and convenience. The journey will take almost 6 hours. ‍
• Tuk-Tuk: You can do what we did and drive to Trincomalee in your very own Tuk-tuk . (you can get family sized tuk-tuks too if you’re a family with sass and adventure!). We rented ours for 4 weeks and it cost $18 a day and I highly recommend it as it gives you so much freedom and you get to meet lots of interesting people. ‍
• Train: According to Sri Lankan railways, an overnight bus runs from Colombo Fort to Trincomalee which takes 15 hours and costs around 200 Sri Lankan rupee but this is crazy long. However, there are also semi-express night trains. I am not sure if they are shorter, but all the information is here.

You can book train travel in Sri Lanka online with 12Go Asia. Search and book here.

How long should I stay in Trincomalee?

Trincomalee is the sort of beach destination where you could easily spend a week or more.

It depends on what you want. 

If you are on a holiday, then I would definitely recommend a minimum of a week.

But if you are seeing Trincomalee as part of a full island trip around Sri Lanka, then I would stay 3 or 4 nights. 

We stayed 3 nights, but would have stayed longer if we had the time!

Read Also: What To Pack For Sri Lanka: Our In-Depth Packing List

When is the best time to visit Trincomalee?

The best time to visit the east coast of Sri Lanka is May to September. 

Bradley and I visited in September and it was beautiful. 

Our whole route was planned on avoiding the different monsoon seasons the island has.

The monsoon season on the East coast is from October to January.

Read Also: My guide on the best places to visit in Mirissa.

The best places to visit in Trincomalee

Now for the part, you came for, the best places to visit in Trincomalee as voted by me (and Bradley!) 

1. Go Snorkelling at Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island is one of those picture-perfect places that everyone talks about.

As soon as you get to Trincomalee people will ask are you going to Pigeon Island (if you haven’t already heard about it before you get to Trincomalee)

It’s basically a famous snorkel spot on the East coast. 

You have to get a boat to the island which is around 20 minutes and you pay an entrance to enter the Pigeon Island National Park.

All of the beaches arrange day trips to Pigeon Island so if you fancy going with an organised tour then simply pick one. 

They are all priced fairly and it organised your transport and everything for you which takes away any fuss.

You’ll get to experience the sea life that inhabits the shallow waters just off Nilaveli. 

Feast your eyes on colourful corals and sparkling fish.

If you’ve never snorkeled before or you simply love snorkelling then this is one of the great places to visit in Trincomalee.

Price: $22/Person

Book: Check Klook 

Opening Times: Tours typically leave in the morning. 

2. Visit Fort Frederick

Built in the 1600s, Ford Frederick is a colonial fort that was built by the Portuguese. 

It’s now used by the Sri Lankan Military but the public can go see it. 

You might find lots of deer hidden there among other wildlife, and if you want to escape the shade, then this is the spot to head to.

Read Also: Brad's guide on what to do in Mullaitivu.

Price: Free

Opening Times: 6 am to 10 pm  

3. Nilaveli Beach

This beach is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.

This is a stretch of beach which is situated approximately 16 kilometres North of Trincomalee.

It’s the starting point for Pigeon island but it's also the perfect spot for watersports, relaxing and just enjoying the sun. 

There are a lot of big hotel resorts located in this area so it's a great place to be if you’re relaxing on holiday. 

You can reach here via moped which are rented for cheap all over Trincomalee, or if you have your own tuk-tuk simply drive there!

Read Also: 50 incredible places to visit in Sri Lanka

4. Cocktails at Fernandos

This was actually a recommendation I found on another website and I am so glad I did because it is awesome. 

It’s a fantastic bar situated right on the beach front and they offer delicious food, snacks and drinks.

They even have a happy hour.

There are lots of areas to chill and lounge and even swings to sit on for dinner. 

It’s the perfect place to catch the sunset and a great place to meet other travellers.

It also offers accommodation, and hobbit holes (which are super intriguing but no way would I stay in one).

I think this is a pretty good romantic spot in Sri Lanka, so take full advantage. 

Also you can walk along the beach afterwards. 

We found lots of cute puppies, and brought some dog food (from the shop) to feed them.

5. Learn to dive

There are ample opportunities to take your diving course and get certified in Trincomalee and for a great price. 

We considered it, but we decided to wait until another time. 

The cost works out at around $200 pounds which isn’t a bad price for a 3-day course which involves 3-4 dives.

Simply walk along the beach and call into one of the diving centres and ask for prices.

Read Also: The best things to do in Arugam Bay

6. Whale Watching

Trincomalee is famous for its whale watching and it’s got the opposite season for whale watching in the South Coast of Mirissa which means if you missed it there, you can find it here.

Again there are whale watching tours advertised all over the beach and for varying prices. 

When we visited the season for whale watching was over, so I wouldn’t bother paying as there is a good chance you will be disappointed.

If it's a similar price to what it is in Mirissa then I would expect to pay around $20-30 depending on haggling skills and time of year. (March until August is the whale watching season in Trincomalee)

Alongside whales, you will probably see other marine life such as dolphins.

Price: $20-30/Person

Book: Check GetYourGuide

Opening Times: Tours start in the morning.

7. Visit the unique Koneswaram Temple

Temples in Sri Lanka aren’t typically as grand as other temples throughout Asia, particularly Thailand and India. 

However, this is truly one of the best places to visit in Trincomalee because it’s so beautiful and unique. 

It’s an ancient temple to the Hindu god Shiva surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery.

If you only visit a few temples when backpacking Sri Lanka, then make this one of them.

It’s also known as the temple of 1000 pillars and it exudes exquisite detail which just adds to the beauty. If you arrive early you can catch a beautiful sunrise experience.

Ps, make sure you cover your shoulders out of respect. 

Price: Free of Charge

Opening Times: 6am–1pm, 4–6:45pm

8. Enjoy a bay view at the Koneswaram Temple

Since this temple (mentioned just above) is located in a beautiful setting, you’re greeted with stunning bay views of the ocean. 

This also makes for a romantic sunset spot.

So don’t forget your camera.

Grab a picnic, and create a wonderful memory!

This is one of the low-cost things to do in Trincomalee, which is perfect if you’re on a backpacker budget. 

Read Also: Our incredible 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary

9. Visit Pathirakali Amman Temple

Brilliant, bright and unique, this is a colourful temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhadrakali,  a form of the goddess Kali Amman in Trincomalee.

It was built in the 11th century and it’s extremely photogenic and stunning.

It’s a really great place to visit in Trincomalee, and again there’s no entrance fee. 

Ps, if you just rent a moped and drive through the city, or even just walk along the beach, you’ll come across other unique and colourful temples that don’t seem to make the list. 

Every Hindu temple is quite unique and beautiful in its own right, so discover your own!

10. Visit the Trincomalee British War Cemetery

If you want to delve into the history of Trincomalee a little, then this is one of the unique places to visit in Trincomalee.

It’s a cemetery dedicated to soldiers of the British Empire who were killed or died during World war II. 

It’s a really interesting spot and worth visiting, if you’re prepared to learn about the context and history behind it. 

Opening Times: 7 am to 4 pm daily 

11. Go beach hopping & work on your tan 

There are lots of amazing beaches in Trincomalee that offer the opportunity for tanning and relaxing. 

One popular beach that always pops up in the search engines is Marble beach.

Bradley and I didn’t get the chance to visit here but I’ve heard great things.

It’s regarded as one of the most beautiful stretches of beaches in Sri Lanka so it’s definitely one of the top places to visit in Trincomalee. 

You can get there via moped or tuk-tuk ride.

Other beaches in Trincomalee for relaxing include Uppuveli Beach . 

Lots of these beaches will offer water sports opportunities such as parasailing, or kayaking, maybe even bodyboarding. 

They also all have beach shacks and food places nearby meaning there are lots of opportunities for pure relaxation.

You’ll often find lots of puppies and dogs on the beach when you can please feed them dog food/puppy food from the shops. It only costs 1 pound for a bag, and you can help them survive. 

Also, puppies tend to have little ticks in them, so try and pull them out too. 

Obviously wash your hands afterwards.

Remember: Trincomalee isn't really much of a Sri Lankan surf spot.

But if that's what you're interested in, then check out this guide on surfing in Sri Lanka.

12. Visit one of the many seafood restaurants 

Naturally since Trincomalee is a coastal town, they’re pretty famous for their delicious seafood cuisine on offer. 

I don’t eat fish or seafood, but Bradley does and he got some amazing food! 

Lobster for a fraction of the price you would pay at home, and delicious mussels and much more. 

There are lots of restaurants to choose from and I suggest you simply walk down the main strip of town and see what’s on offer. 

Visit a place that’s busy as that’s usually a sign that it’s a good place to eat, and you’ll lower your risk of getting food poisoning. 

One of the essential things to do in Trincomalee if you’re a foodie. 

Day trips from Trincomalee

1. visit the cultural dream of anuradhapura.

Anuradhapura is one of the most interesting places in Sri Lanka, and it’s only a two hour drive from Trincomalee. 

So if you’re visiting Trincomalee on holiday (which many people do), then a day trip to Anuradhapura is a great idea. 

There are SO many UNESCO heritage sites to discover and you’ll be amazed by the history, temples and views on offer. 

Read more: Awesome Places To Visit In Anuradhapura 

2. Visit Sigiriya Rock 

Sigiriya is another amazing place to visit in Sri Lanka and again, it’s only a couple of hours drive from Trincomalee.

You should definitely make a day trip here to climb Sigiriya Rock. 

It’s one of the most unique things to do in Sri Lanka, and actually probably one of my top Sri Lanka attractions in the whole country. 

Read more: All You Need To Know About Climbing Lion Rock In Sigiriya 

Where is good to eat in Trincomalee

There is a whole range of brilliant restaurants to suit all budgets and cuisines.

Seafood is also a popular choice and I would simply wander down the street, or get a tuk-tuk and try different restaurants each night.

We can recommend the zebra restaurant opposite our accommodation. It was the cheapest food in Trincomalee and the kottu roti was AMAZING.

Kottu Roti is the “national dish" of Sri Lanka and it's cheap, tasty and I am craving some right now.

So there you have it, I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide on 12 perfect places to visit in Trincomalee.

 If you’re planning on heading inland to visit the beautiful Sigiriya afterwards, then don’t forget to check out our guide on the best places to visit in Sigiriya.

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Trincomalee

Trincomalee (Trinco) sits on one of the world’s finest natural harbors. This historic city is old almost beyond reckoning: it’s possibly the site of historic Gokana in the Mahavamsa (Great Chronicle), and its Shiva temple the site of Trikuta Hill in the Hindu text Vayu Purana. It makes a great stop over on the way to the nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kandasamy Kovil

This revered temple at the summit of a rocky outcrop is one of Sri Lanka’s pancha ishwaram, five historical Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva and…

Fort Frederick

Occupying the neck of a narrow peninsula, Fort Frederick has been a defensively important site for centuries. A fortress was initially constructed here by…

Seruwawila Rajamaha Viharaya

One of the holiest Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka, founded in the 2nd century BC, but only rediscovered, and reconstructed, in the 1920s. This stupa…

Maritime & Naval History Museum

A grand 18th-century Dutch colonial building has been renovated and turned into a museum. Displays on the ground floor cover Sri Lankan naval history back…

Manayaweli Cove

Manayaweli Cove is an appealing curl of fishing beach with clean sand where you can also swim in the clear water; reach it by strolling past Manayaweli…

The base for Kandasamy Kovil is considered the world's greatest vantage point for spotting blue whales. Note the odd cubic-shaped rocks below.

Marble Beach

About 17km south of Trinco, there's a turn-off on the left for Marble Beach (signposted just before the Kinniya bridge), a glorious cove bookended by…

Dutch Bay Beach

Right in the centre of Trinco is the attractive and picturesque Dutch Bay. Swimming is possible despite sometimes dangerous undertows. However, it’s more…

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What To Do in Trincomalee Sri Lanka in 2 Days

Last updated on January 30th, 2022 at 05:20 pm

If you wonder what to do in Trincomalee, here’s our guide to Sri Lanka’s popular yet not at all crowded beach resort.

Sri Lanka has no shortage of stunning seaside towns. One of them is Trincomalee, a beach town located on the East Coast of the country, which suffered greatly during the Sri Lankan Civil War (1983-2009). Nowadays, Trinco, as locals like to call it, has put its difficult past behind and looks to a future of welcoming travellers from all over the world. Trincomalee is a laid-back destination that is a lot quieter than the beach towns of Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast. That said, it is equally fascinating.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

What to do in Trincomalee in 2 days

The obvious reason why anyone should plan a trip to Trincomalee is lying on its sandy beaches. However, there’s more to Trinco than just that. Sightseeing, water sports, wildlife observation, you name it. This is why we believe that one should spend at least 2 days in Trincomalee so as to make the most of this easy-going and absolutely charming coastal town.

We visited Trincomalee as part of our 10-day trip across Sri Lanka. Check out our full itinerary here!

How to get to Trincomalee from Colombo

It is easy (and ridiculously cheap) to get from Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo, to Trincomalee. There is an overnight train (1,5-2,5€) which will take you to Trincomalee in about 8 hours as well as public buses (2,5€ – 6h). That said, driving is the best way to get from Colombo to Trincomalee in our humble opinion. Getting to Trinco by car also takes about 6h but the important thing to remember here is that driving gives you the flexibility to stop whenever and wherever you wish. If you don’t feel like driving for any reason whatsoever, you can hire a car with professional driver . It is the most expensive option but also the most immersive way to experience the country.

Apart from the gorgeous nature itself, there are a couple of interesting things to see along this specific route, such as the Buddhist Silver Temple. One of our favourite stops en route from Colombo to Trincomalee was a pineapple plantation. We had no idea what the actual pineapple plant looked like until then. We also had the chance to taste freshly cut fruit the way locals enjoy them. With a pinch of salt and, wait for it, chili. We know it sounds weird but it was heavenly.

Spending time in vibrant Colombo? Here’s our guide to Sri Lanka’s exciting capital!

Top 9 things to do in Trincomalee Sri Lanka

1. explore fort fredrick.

The Portuguese built a fort in Trincomalee back in 1624. That was later destroyed and in 1665 the Dutch constructed a new fort in its place, which they named Fort Fredrick. Situated at the tip of a narrow peninsula, Fort Fredrick offers breathtaking views to the ocean. The fort has no entrance fee and spending time strolling around its grounds is utterly pleasant. You can go shopping at the various stalls selling souvenirs and fresh fruit or you can enjoy a King Coconut with the best ocean view at one of the cafés inside the fort.

Last but not least, while walking around Fort Fredrick, you will inevitably stumble upon the cutest animals you’ve ever seen, a species of dotted deer found only in Sri Lanka.

2. Marvel at the impressive Koneswaram Temple

Within the area of Fort Fredrick, you can see Koneswaram Temple, a Hindu temple which is very impressive in terms of both scale and colour. The temple has a long and very interesting history. Founded before 400BC, it was then destroyed only to be reconstructed quite recently, during the 20th century. If you’re not familiar with Hindu traditions or haven’t visited a Hindu temple before, this is the ideal place to learn a lot about them. Koneswaram Temple was the first of its kind we’d ever visited and being there gave us excellent insight into the practices and customs related to Hinduism.

Alongside its historical and architectural value, Koneswaram Temple is also unique for the jaw-dropping ocean views it offers. One of the most fascinating places to visit on Swami Rock, where the temple is built, is Ravana’s Cleft . Legend has it that, when King Ravana’s mother fell ill, he wanted to move Koneswaram Temple to a different location so that it would be easier for her to visit. However, Lord Shiva, the deity worshipped at the temple, made King Ravana drop his sword and that’s how the dramatic cleft was formed. This location is also called Lover’s Leap after a young lady who fell from the cliff to her death when she saw the Dutch officer with whom she was in love sail on a ship back to his homeland.

3. Watch the sunrise on Nilaveli Beach

Who wants to wake up at the crack of dawn while on holiday? The answer is simple: nobody. But what if we told you that sunrise in Trincomalee, Nilaveli Beach to be more precise, is an once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience? We can’t even begin to describe how we felt when we saw the sun emerge in all its red glory from the depths of the Indian Ocean right before our eyes. All we could hear was the gentle sound of the waves as they kissed the golden sand and the ritual-like chant of fishermen as they hauled their seemingly endless fishing nets out of the sea. It was a mesmerising moment, to say the least.

4. Spend endless relaxing moments on the beach

Do you remember the number one reason you decided to visit Trincomalee in the first place? That’s right, it’s the beach. With some of the most pristine beaches in Sri Lanka within easy reach, Trincomalee is the perfect place to indulge in doing absolutely nothing but enjoying the sea and the sun. Uppuveli is the most popular beach near Trincomalee and home to the legendary Fernando’s Bar. Nilaveli is a lot quieter and the ideal beach to enjoy long seaside walks and the best sunrise of your lives. Last but not least, Marble Beach boasts the clearest waters of all Trincomalee beaches.

5. Mingle with locals at Trincomalee’s colourful market

In our opinion, wandering around the town’s local market is one of the best things to do in Trincomalee. We enjoyed stepping inside old-fashioned stores that sold pretty much every little thing a household needs at extremely low prices.

Our favourite, though, was the fruit and vegetable market. Products there were utterly fresh and you could tell that they came from small producers as normal quantities of each item was on offer rather than outrageously high piles of them. We were reminded that real fruit and vegetables aren’t shiny, spotless and huge. They are small, funny-shaped but inconceivably delicious. Yet the almighty and super intelligent Western World throws such ugly fruit in the dump. What a shocking waste! But the local market in Trincomalee was different. It was a glimpse into a past which seemed long lost and forgotten. A past when life was a lot simpler as consumerism and all of its evils were yet to emerge.

6. Join a boat tour

The most popular boat tour destination from Trincomalee is nearby Pigeon Island . Situated just 1km off Nilaveli Beach, Pigeon Island is one of Sri Lanka’s natural parks. It is home to some of the best coral reefs in the country. This is the reason why it attracts many snorkelling lovers alongside regular beach-goers, such as ourselves. Exploring Kunchikumban Aru Lagoon by boat is yet another great way to discover Trincomalee’s hidden gems. This boat tour takes you along the tranquil waters of one of numerous tanks constructed in Sri Lanka in ancient times. All along the boat tour, one can observe various species of birds, especially eagles, as well as admire the incredible flora of the area.

7. Visit the Kanniya Hot Springs

The Kanniya hot water springs is one of the best places to visit in Trincomalee. The story behind the creation of these hot water wells is actually related to the legend of Ravana’s Cleft we mentioned above. After his failed attempt to relocate Koneswaram Temple, King Ravana returned to his mother, only to find that she was already dead. In order to carry out the last rites for his dear mother, he stuck his sword in the earth many times and that’s how the seven hot water springs were created.

Nowadays, locals flock to the Kanniya Hot Springs as they believe that the water has healing properties. Each one of the seven small square wells on the ground has slightly different temperature from the others but they are all HOT water springs. That said, it still felt strangely refreshing when we emptied a couple of buckets of this super hot water on ourselves on an equally super hot day.

8. Go whale watching

Sri Lanka is the ideal destination to observe wildlife in various forms. Apart from the obvious and mandatory option of an elephant safari, whale watching is also an exciting way to enjoy a unique experience in Sri Lanka. Keep in mind that it’s not 100% certain that you will actually get to see a whale but a day out in the sea can never be a bad day anyway. Before you book a whale watching trip, please make sure that the company you’ve chosen complies with all international whale watching guidelines.

9. Take in the views of Kantale Tank

As mentioned above, Sri Lanka is home to many water reservoirs or tanks, as locals prefer to call them. One of the largest and oldest ones is Kantale Tank near Trincomalee. Kantale Tank provides the entire area of Trincomalee with water for cultivations and human consumption alike. To us visitors, Kantale Tank is an enchanting, almost surreal setting which is really worth a short stop. If, while admiring the view, you hear a music tuk tuk coming your way, wave at it until it stops. I’m pretty sure you think I’ve gone completely mad, but, yes, tuk tuks that play music exist in Sri Lanka. What’s more exciting is that these specific tuk tuks actually sell food, most of them bread, but it’s not uncommon to stumble upon an ice-cream tuk tuk as well.

Best time to visit Trincomalee

The best time to visit Trincomalee and the entire East Coast in order to avoid monsoons is from April to September. This is also the best time to go whale watching in Trincomalee for higher chances to actually see whales.

Where to stay in Trincomalee

This will be a short one: the beach. If you decide to plan a trip to Trincomalee, make it worth every single second by booking a room in one of the hotels right on the beach. We stayed at a Nilaveli beach hotel and, although the room wasn’t to our liking in some respects, we wouldn’t miss the chance to fall asleep by the sound of the waves for the world. Not to mention that staying at a beach hotel made it a lot easier for us to enjoy the spectacular sunrise in Nilaveli.

Book your beachfront hotel in Trincomalee now!

We enjoyed immensely our 2-day stay in Trincomalee during this first trip to Sri Lanka of ours. However, next time we are in the country, we’d love to check out more of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beach towns. Any suggestions? Let us know in the comments!

Thinking of planning your first trip to Asia? Check out all the reasons why Sri Lanka is the best choice now!

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Disclosur e : We travelled to Sri Lanka on a press trip organised by  Sri Lanka Tourism . That said, we always share our very own and personal opinions about places we visit and services we try. Under no circumstances would we ever recommend anything we didn’t actually enjoy ourselves.

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Although most visitors are drawn to this part of the island by the beaches at nearby Nilaveli and Uppuveli, a day in Trincomalee offers an interesting change of scenery. The setting is beautiful, straddling a narrow peninsula between the Indian Ocean and the Inner Harbour, rising up to the imposing Swami Rock, the dominant feature on the coast hereabouts. The town itself possesses an understated but distinct charm all of its own, with an interesting old fort and sleepy backstreets lined with pretty colonial villas dotted with mosques, churches and dozens of colourful little Hindu temples. Catering to the town’s predominantly Tamil population, the temples give parts of the city a decidedly Indian flavour, especially at around 4 pm when Trinco fills with the ringing of bells and the sound of music from myriad temples for the late-afternoon puja.

Things To Do At Trincomalee

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Discover Sri Lanka

There is so much to see and do in Sri Lanka! This 10-day trip will take you around some of the most exciting parts of the country; spot Elephants in their natural habitat, discover the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and learn more about the famous Ceylon Tea plantations.

Tailor-made trips for   Sri Lanka

There are not just white sands, wildlife and rock formations to enjoy at Trincomalee but a range of activities and places to see. In the evening laid-back bars line the beach oozing with chill vibes, relax in a hammock and enjoy the sunset after an afternoon snorkelling at Pigeon Island. The beauty of Trincomalee island is that it is full of local life. The people have not changed their way to accommodate tourists making it an ideal location to see the rare and untouched parts of Sri Lanka.

Whale-Watching

Whale-watching is somewhat a hot spot at Trincomalee, with the best times to go being between March and August. Expect to see Blue Whales and Sperm Whales, it is also likely that you will see Dolphins and a range of fish species.

Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil

This Hindu temple is full of colourful garlands and aromatic incense. Something not to be missed if you love your doses of culture.

Fort Frederik

Fort Frederik was built by the Portuguese back in the day and is now used by the Sri Lankan military. Luckily for you, the old fort is open to visitors and can make an interesting trip. The area is covered by trees providing a shaded haven to escape the midday heat.

Koneswaram Temple

Koneswaram Temple is not just any regular temple as its location makes it special. The views of Trincomalee Bay can be seen here in all its glory. Drink from a coconut and admire the temple and views.

History at Trincomalee

Eastern Sri Lanka’s major town, TRINCOMALEE (or “Trinco”) has been celebrated since antiquity for its superlative deep-water harbour, one of the finest in Asia – the legendary Panduvasudeva is said to have sailed into Trincomalee (or Gokana, as it was originally known) with his followers, while the town served as the major conduit for the island’s seaborne trade during the Anuradhapuran and Polonnaruwan periods. The harbour was later fought over repeatedly during the colonial period and even attracted the hostile attentions of the Japanese air force during World War II.

Trincomalee suffered massively following the onset of the civil war in 1983. Although Trinco avoided the massive bomb damage inflicted on Jaffna, the town’s position close to the front line made it the island’s major collecting point for war-displaced refugees, while tensions between the town’s Tamil, Muslim and Sinhalese communities regularly erupted into communal rioting. Things have been a lot quieter following the expulsion of the LTTE from the east in 2007, and Trinco is now once again looking to the future with renewed, if cautious, optimism.

North of Trincomalee the coast is lined with a fine strand of wide golden beach, beginning at the village of Uppuveli and continuing through to Nilaveli and beyond: a superb stretch of coast whose enormous tourist potential has as yet barely even been scratched – which is a large part of its appeal. Both Uppuveli and Nilaveli were saved from development during the civil war by their position close to the front line, and have little changed since – although a handful of courageous local entrepreneurs continue to plug away against the odds, sustained by a steady stream of NGOs on weekend jollies. Both places remain extremely low-key even during the season from May to September, and at other times of the year are usually more or less comatose.

Some 10km north of Uppuveli, the straggling settlement of NILAVELI is home to another fine stretch of largely deserted beach, though the village has yet to recover from the twin effects of war and tsunami and the whole place still feels moribund, at least apart from the attractive Nilaveli Beach Hotel, the area’s major – indeed only – landmark, and one of the east coast’s most attractive boltholes.

Just a few kilometres north of Trinco, the low-key village of UPPUVELI is little more than a modest cluster of guesthouses, a couple of hotels, a few fishing boats, and a great many palm trees. Uppuveli’s guesthouses managed to eke out a tenuous existence during the war years, while the village was lucky enough to escape the widespread destruction wrought by the tsunami on nearby Nilaveli thanks to its sheltered position behind Trincomalee’s Swami Rock. The long-anticipated postwar resurgence has yet to be felt here, however, and although the village has a little more life than Nilaveli further down the coast, the atmosphere remains deeply somnolent.

Whale-watching around Trincomalee

Following the recent development of whale-watching tours in Mirissa, Trincomalee is rapidly emerging as another internationally important whale-watching destination. Blue whales in particular (plus smaller numbers of sperm whales) can regularly be seen around six to eight nautical miles east of Trincomalee (about 30min by boat), and can even occasionally be spotted from the land – with Swami Rock offering the best vantage point. Dolphins (mainly Spinner) are also regularly seen. Most sightings occur between March/April and August/September, as whales continue their migrations around the island from the south coast (where they mainly congregate from December to April) – this means that Sri Lanka offers around ten months of continuous whale-watching annually at different points around the coast.

The stretch of coastline between Trincomalee and Batticaloa remains one of the poorest and least-developed in Sri Lanka – until 2007 much of this area was controlled by the LTTE – although things are once again looking up, at least if the burgeoning development at Passekudah is anything to go by. The A15 highway runs the length of the coast, though it’s in poor condition between Trinco and Mutur and is punctuated by several river crossings where vehicles are carried over by ferry – buses from Trincomalee to Batticaloa make the long detour inland via Habarana.

Passekudah and Kalkudah

Way back in the 1970s and early 1980s, the twin beaches of Passekudah and Kalkudah were the east coast’s most developed tourist destinations, home to a modest cluster of resort hotels and drawing a steady string of European tourists to this far-flung corner of the island. All that ended following the outbreak of war. The hotels were first abandoned, and subsequently blown up by the LTTE to prevent them being used by the Sri Lankan Army – their ghostly skeletons remained, until quite recently, standing sentry over the deserted beaches.

Now the area is on the cusp of a second, and even more dramatic coming, earmarked as a special tourist development zone and already in the throes of enormous development. The formerly deserted arc of PASSEKUDAH BAY is now ringed with the concrete skeletons of no fewer than thirteen new hotels under construction (along with the already completed Maalu Maalu resort) which are likely to transform this sleepy village into the east coast’s answer to Beruwala within just a couple of years. By contrast, neighbouring KALKUDAH BAY remains mercifully unchanged, so far at least, with a superb sweep of powder-fine golden sand – blissfully deserted and unspoilt, although a couple of plots of land have already been fenced off for future development, suggesting that Kalkudah’s days as a sleepy backwater are also numbered. See it while you can.

The principal east-coast settlement south of Trincomalee, BATTICALOA (often shortened to “Batti”) is one of Sri Lanka’s most appealing but least-known larger towns, mainly thanks to its long years of isolation and turbulence during the civil war. Throughout the conflict, the town and surrounding area was a major flashpoint between LTTE and Sri Lankan Army forces, with the army controlling the town and the LTTE running their own parallel administration – complete with courts, police force and tax collectors – from the village of Kokkadicholai, a short drive south. As Indian journalist Nirupama Subramanian put it in Sri Lanka: Voices from a War Zone: “Technically, Batticaloa town came under the government … That was by day. By night, the town took orders from the Tigers.”

The LTTE are now gone, although intriguing reminders of Batti’s long colonial history can still be seen, while the mercantile hustle and bustle of the main commercial areas suggests a town now increasingly on the mend. The town’s setting is also magical, perched on a narrow sliver of land backed by the serpentine Batticaloa Lagoon and surrounded by water on three sides, with the constantly shifting views of land, lagoon and ocean lending Batticaloa an interesting – if disorienting – character.

Brief history

Historically, Batticaloa is best known as the site of the first landing (in 1602) by the Dutch in Sri Lanka, and as the place where they established their first lasting foothold on the island by seizing the local fort from the resident Portuguese in 1638 (colonial influence lives on in the town’s name, which appears to be a Portuguese corruption of the Sinhalese Mudda Kalapuwa, meaning “muddy lagoon”). Many Muslims also settled in the area under the protection of the kings of Kandy during the same period to escape Portuguese persecution elsewhere, mixing with the region’s largely Tamil population.

Batticaloa and the surrounding area was a major LTTE stronghold throughout the civil war, and perhaps one of the most dangerous places in the island, for civilians at least, over a thousand of whom were killed in or around Batti in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Two of the war’s most gruesome events occurred close to the city. The first, in August 1990, when almost 150 Muslims were massacred by the LTTE in a mosque at Kattankudi (just south of town); the second, just a month later, when more than 180 Tamil civilians (including 47 children under the age of 10) were slaughtered by the Sri Lankan Army in three nearby villages. Towards the end of the war, the region was also wracked by clashes between rival factions of the LTTE, as Colonel Karuna launched his breakaway movement. Widespread disappearances of civilians by the Sri Lankan security services continued to be reported even after the end of fighting in the east in 2007.

The singing fish of Batticaloa

Batti is famous in Sri Lankan folklore for its singing fish. According to tradition, between April and September a strange noise – described variously as resembling a plucked guitar or violin string, or the sound produced by rubbing a wet finger around the rim of a glass – can be heard issuing from the depths of the lagoon. The “singing” is allegedly strongest on full moon nights, though no one knows exactly what causes it. The most popular explanation is that it’s produced by some form of marine life – anything from catfish to mussels – while another theory states that it’s made by water flowing between boulders on the lagoon floor. The best way to listen to the singing is apparently to dip one end of an oar in the water and hold the other end to your ear. Kallady Bridge is traditionally held to be a good place to tune in.

Featured Image, Shiva Statue, Koneshwaram Hindu Temple © erandalx / iStock

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7 Great Things To Do in Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a great little town on the east coast of Sri Lanka. Trincomalee offers beautiful white sand and has one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka . The east coast is upcoming and is way quieter than the south, which is a perfect reason to plan a visit. Trincomalee is surrounded by wildlife, hilltops, and rock formations. Take about 2 or 3 full days in this town because there are quite some great things to do in Trincomalee.

1. Nilaveli Beach

Rent a motorbike for your whole stay (±1500 LKR per day) and go explore the nearby beaches. The east coast is much quieter than other parts, so driving here on a motorbike isn’t a problem.

Nilaveli Beach is a beautiful beach area where you just can chill for the day. In the weekend, locals from all over the country also like to visit Nilaveli because of its white sand. It’s even better to just spot some small roads towards the beach because this brings you the untouched spots!

Get tickets from Colombo to Trincomalee

2. Whale Watching

Trincomalee is famous for Whale Watching. Which is also one of the popular things to do in Mirissa in the opposite season. The whale season in Trincomalee runs from March until August.

3. Chill at Fernandos

One of the most laid-back bars in town is Fernando’s. Located right on the beach, this chill-out bar offers some good drinks and music. Enjoy the last moments of the sunset in a hammock. Just skip lunch or dinner here, and go to one of these restaurants in Trincomalee .

Here are all your hotel options in Trincomalee.

4. Visit Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil

This beautifully colored Hindu temple is located in town and easy to visit. It even might be your lucky day to experience a real ceremony.

During your little trip through town towards the temples or Fort Frederik, you might pass loads of dried fish stalls.

Trincomalee town is full of real local life, where they don’t necessarily have to live from tourism which is completely different from the south.

5. Visit Fort Frederik

Fort Frederik is an old fort built by the Portuguese. These days it is used by the Sri Lankan military but it’s open for visitors. Within the fort, you can see many deer and escape the heat of the day because most of the fort is covered by trees.

6. Enjoy the bay view at the Koneswaram Temple

From Fort Frederik, you can follow the road until the viewpoint area and Hindu temple Koneswaram. From this area, you can drink a coconut with a view over the whole Trincomalee bay. The temple is built on a great location with an insane drop into the ocean. Make sure the visit the back of the temple area.

7. Snorkel at Pigeon Island

A 10-minute boat rides out of Nilaveli Beach is a small island with super clear water and a small white sand beach. Pigeon Island is great for a morning or afternoon tour. Don’t forget your snorkel gear.

Best restaurants in Trincomalee

There are loads of fantastic restaurants in town. We have rated them by yummy (♥️) rating.

• Cafe on the 18th – ♥️♥️♥️♥️ (Located at Fernando’s Bar)
• Gomesz’s Pasta Hut – ♥️♥️♥️♥️
• Nero Kitchen (Pizza) – ♥️♥️♥️
• Rice ‘n’ Curry Restaurant – ♥️♥️

Where to go after Trincomalee?

From Trincomalee, you have some great options to continue your route through Sri Lanka .

• Do a 2-day road trip along the east-coast of Sri Lanka
• Visit Surfers paradise Arugam Bay
• Jaffna , the most northern province of Sri Lanka
• Climb up Sigiriya’s Lion Rock

Where to stay in Trincomalee

We found the best area to stay in Trincomalee just outside the city’s center near Fernando’s bar.

Hotels in Trincomalee 😴

You will have plenty of great restaurants around and can easily visit Nilaveli + Pigeon Island or the other side of the city, like Fort Frederik.

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The Ultimate Trincomalee Travel Guide

Posted by Lara | Apr 17, 2020 | Sri Lanka | 0

When to go to Trincomalee

Trincomalee is only beginning to grow in popularity, you usually won’t find too many tourists in this area (something I quite like). Especially if you decide to go in low season (about October to January), as I did.

October to January is when the Maha monsoon brings rain to Trincomalee. However, there is still hope if you do plan on visiting Trincomalee during the rainy season.

If there’s one thing I learned about Sri Lankan weather, it’s that it does not follow any forecast.

I visited Trincomalee in October and I had beautiful weather.

I explain more about the best time to visit Sri Lanka in my FAQ about Sri Lanka post, but your best option is to ask on platforms what the weather is like right now.

10 Things To Do In Trincomalee

#1  whale watching.

The main thing to do in Trincomalee is whale watching. Trincomalee is one of the two popular spots for whale watching in Sri Lanka ( Mirissa is the other one ).

You can spot blue whales, sperm whales, bryde’s whales and if you are very lucky a killer whale. Don’t get your hopes up for the latter though, they are very rarely spotted. You have chances to see whales all year round , but February until November is when your chances are highest. You will get a refund if you don’t see any whales, though.

The boats in Trinco are just small boats (about 6 people per boat), so it does feel more special if you see one. However, it also means that anyone who’s got a boat can offer such a tour, which means that not all tours are very respectful to the whales.

How many whales can you see?

The number of whales you will see will vary from day-to-day.

When I spoke to the owner of the hostel, he told us that other people who had done the tour the days before we arrived only saw a couple. Some only saw the back of a whale and some didn’t see any whale.

However, when I did the tour, we saw at least 40 whales! There’s just no telling in what you will see, after all this nature. And I always think the anticipation of whether you will see something or not, is part of the experience.

Snorkeling with whales

One option is to go snorkeling with them as well, but I highly discourage that. I am actually embarrassed to say that this was the tour I joined, even though I wasn’t interested in the snorkeling part. But there was only one boat that went whale watching during the days I spent in Trinco, and they only offered snorkeling trips.

It basically means that the boats chase the whales to get real close in order for you to jump out and get close enough to see them. You have to be incredibly close to see them. In fact, some of our boat (including me) didn’t see any whale in the water and preferred to just stay in the boat to watch them.

I know might sound cool to go snorkeling with whales, but I honestly think it is better for them if we don’t. I feel incredibly bad about the fact that I joined such a tour, but hopefully, my mistake can help you make the better decision.

Just watch them and even from the boat these massive animals are already impressive and majestic. You really don’t need to chase them to see how amazing they are.

You can book a tour with your hostel or just go to the beach at the restaurant called Fernando’s. To the left of the restaurant, you will find some sheds where you can ask for tours and prices.

Practical Info

Price: About 3500 LKR (3000 LKR if you don’t see any whales) What’s included: Boat tour and some snacks What to bring: Water-resistant and environmental friendly sunscreen and a T-shirt (you burn way faster on water) What time to visit: Early in the morning Best time of the year to visit : All year round, though February to November have the highest chances of seeing whales Duration : about 3 hours

Hi there, I'm Lara! Your classic Dutchie, who just as any other girl-next-door loves traveling, meeting people, and food. I am best described as an extremely clumsy, sarcastic solo female traveler with zero photography skills. Yet I decided to use these "skills" to give practical, budget, and sustainable travel tips for other solo (female) travelers.

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• 10 Best Places To Visit In Trincomalee That Prove It Is A Hidden Gem In Sri Lanka

23 Mar 2023

Sitting prettily on a remarkable natural harbour on the north-east coast of Sri Lanka, this charming town with oodles of history and interesting sites is a great escape from the touristy south. From ancient temples & forts to breathtaking beaches, coves and a maritime museum, Trincomalee has lots to offer to the discerning travellers. Whether you seek solace at the tranquil Buddhist viharas & Hindu temples or unravel marine mysteries at the fascinating Pigeon Island, there is no dearth of places to visit in Trincomalee. So, put on your travelling boots, sprinkle some wanderlust and join us on a sojourn to explore the best places to visit in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka.

10 Trincomalee Tourist Attractions You Can’t Miss!

While there are a lot of places to see in Trincomalee, here’s a list of ten places which you can’t afford to miss on your Sri Lanka trip. Take a look!

• Koneswaram Temple
• Fort Frederick
• Pathirakali Amman Temple
• Velgam Vehera
• Maritime and Naval History Museum
• Uppuveli & Nilaveli Beaches
• Pigeon Island National Park
• Trincomalee War Cemetery
• Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara
• St Mary’s Cathedral

1. Koneswaram Temple

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Undoubtedly one of the first sites to be ticked off the Trincomalee tourist map is this revered temple located atop a cliff inside Fort Fredrick. This important Hindu pilgrimage site displaying Darvidian architectural style is believed to be one of the Panch Ishwarams(five abodes of Shiva) with a swayambhu lingam. The shrine exudes sacred vibes and is a wonderful place for seeking solace in the divine presence. Surrounded by magnificent views of the Indian Ocean, this fabulous temple tops our list of places to visit in Trincomalee.

Must Read: Snorkeling In Sri Lanka: 15 Spectacular Spots To Take A Dive

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2. Fort Frederick

This important historical landmark with an imposing entrance is a must-do for history and nature enthusiasts when you visit Trincomalee. While the history is interesting, the presence of freely-roaming spotted deer adds charm to the stroll through this fort. Built by the Portuguese, Fort Fredrick is partly under military occupation and also houses a famous Buddhist vihara and sacred Hindu temple. Breathtaking sunsets and sweeping views of Trincomalee bay and town make the visit truly rewarding. You can take a tuk-tuk to the fort and also buy some trinkets from the stalls inside.

Timings: Daily 6AM-10PM

Suggested Read: Bachelor Parties In Sri Lanka: Sail Through The Last Days Of Your Singlehood In Style!

3. Pathirakali Amman Temple

The spectacular gopuram of this Kali temple with its vibrant colours and myriad sculptures catches your eye from a distance, while the unique interiors will leave you spellbound. Also called the Kali Kovil, you can feel the powerful and benevolent presence of the goddess in this popular Durga temple in the heart of the city. Of all Trincomalee temples, this one is sure to leave you awestruck with its colourfully adorned walls and spiritual vibes.

Temple Timings: Opens at 6:30AM (morning aarti at 7AM); closes after the aarti at 12PM and reopens in evening (4-6:30PM)

4. Velgam Vehera

One of the best places to visit around Trincomalee, this ancient Buddhist site with a modern day monastery is just perfect for spending a couple of quiet hours. With a beautiful setting amidst tall trees and lawns, strolling through the remains of this ancient Budhhist temple built by King Devanamiyatissa is a calming experience. The original crystalline Buddha statue still stands tall and is a sight to behold while the new monastery offers a chance to meditate in this serene place. The ruins with intriguing inscriptions and the awesome jungle surrounding it, make this visit worthwhile.

Suggested Read: Be A Part Of These 16 Festivals In Sri Lanka In That Showcase Its Culturally Vibrant Side

5. Maritime and Naval History Museum

Located in a beautifully restored 17th century Dutch mansion, this informative museum offers important insights into Sri Lankan maritime history. Amongst the most interesting places to visit in Trincomalee, the ground floor takes you through the country’s naval history dating back from Marco polo’s time with models depicting naval scenes and some video presentations. The exhibits on the first floor throw light on the marine ecosystem with special emphasis on the flora and fauna of East coast. With free entry and knowledgeable guides, this wonderful museum also offers lovely views of the bay.

Timings: 8:30AM-4:30PM (Wed-Mon). Tuesday Closed.

6. Uppuveli & Nilaveli Beaches

North of Trincomalee, are these two pristine palm-fringed beaches perfect for a lazy, rejuvenating day by the sea. Uppuveli has powdery white sand, clear emerald waters and a lovely beach vibe with restaurants offering delicious Sri Lankan cuisine . This laidback paradise is perfect for swimming, whale watching, volley-ball or simply relaxing by the sea. Nilaveli beach is further north, bigger, calmer and totally unspoilt by the onslaught of tourism. When you’ve covered all places to visit in Trincomalee map, head to these beautiful beaches to steal some relaxing moments.

Suggested Read: 7 Best Resorts In Sri Lanka That Are A Perfect Blend Of Luxury And Comfort

7. Pigeon Island National Park

Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit near Trincomalee, the pristine and beautiful Pigeon Island National Park off the coast of Nilaveli is a great getaway from the city. Comprising of two small islands, the national park is home to the endangered rock pigeons, vibrant marine life and stunning rock formations. The powdery white sands, glittering rock pools and the shallow turquoise waters make this a memorable trip, along with ample snorkelling opportunities right off the beach.

Timings: Daily, 8AM-5PM Entry fee: USD 10/adult; USD5/child. Additional service charges per group & boat charges

8. Trincomalee War Cemetery

This final resting place of the British and local soldiers who laid down their lives during World War II, is a quiet solemn place. Set in a well-maintained garden, this is one of the six Commonwealth war cemeteries in Sri Lanka. As you pay homage to the fallen soldiers and sailors and walk through the poignant place, you gain insight into what price we pay for wars. One of the most humbling places to visit in Trincomalee, the war cemetery is also a place for quiet contemplation.

9. Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara

Counted amongst the holiest Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, this temple is one of the important places to visit in Trincomalee for the spiritually inclined travellers. The 2nd century stupa was originally built by King Kavantissa and holds the sacred frontal bone of Lord Buddha. Thousand of devotees visit this sacred Buddhist Vihara every year to pay homage and seek blessings of the enlightened one. Also visit the new complex with a huge statue of Buddha; remember to be modestly dressed and remove your footwear.

Suggested Read: 6 Best Restaurants In Dambulla Where You Must Dine On Your Next Sri Lankan Trip!

10. St Mary’s Cathedral

Tucked away in a quiet part of the city, this beautiful small Catholic Cathedral is just a walking distance away from the beach. Built in 1852, the attractive blue and white facade of the cathedral exudes warmth and tranquillity. The well-maintained site also houses a small school with young children who are happy to interact with visitors.

Further Read: Top Places For Trekking In Sri Lanka For The Thrill Seekers!

With many more interesting and unique places to visit in Trincomalee, you can spend a few enjoyable days in this quieter part of the country on your trip to Sri Lanka with TravelTriangle !

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Trincomalee

Which are special places to visit in trincomalee?

Trincomalee is a coastal city in Sri Lanka that is famous for its shrines and cliffs. There are plenty of things to do in Trincomalee apart from temple hopping. Here are some special places to visit in Trincomalee – Manayaweli Bay – Kanniya Hot Springs – Pigeon Island National Park – St. Mary’s Cathedral – Trincomalee Beach

Which are the best places to visit near trincomalee?

You should not leave trincomalee without visiting these best places in Trincomalee. These places are the famous landmarks of the city. – Fort Frederick – Nilaveli Beach – Koneswaram Temple – Gokanna Temple

Which are romantic places to visit in trincomalee?

Trincomalee is a religion town, however, you may find a few spots in the city where you can spend some quality time and admire the beauty of this place. Visit Uppuveli Beach to chase the ocean waves. Dutch Bay Beach and Fort Frederick are other romantic places to visit in Trincomalee.

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Day Trip to Pigeon Island: Best Snorkelling in Trincomalee

When I arrived in Trincomalee, I had no intentions to go snorkelling, but it became one of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka. Heading out on a half day trip to Pigeon Island National Park was an incredible introduction to the underwater world.

Home to more than 100 species of coral, over 300 types of tropical fish, reef sharks, turtles and more, within just a couple of hours in the water we were able to see so much more than I had on any other snorkelling trip before.

If you’re planning on visiting Trincomalee or deciding where to go diving in Sri Lanka, this quick guide will explain everything you need to know about heading to Pigeon Island off the northeast coast of Sri Lanka.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Where is Pigeon Island?

Pigeon Island National Park is one of the newer parks added to Sri Lanka’s growing conservation areas. It covers Pigeon Island, a small island just a kilometre off the coast near Trincomalee, plus a large portion of the coral reef and sea surrounding the island.

It’s home to some of the best preserved coral reef in Sri Lanka (although sadly much is still recovering from the 2004 tsunami). Considering it’s incredibly easy to reach from Nilaveli Beach or Uppuveli Beach north of Trincomalee, it’s one of the most popular snorkelling and scuba diving places in Sri Lanka.

While it’s technically closer to Nilaveli Beach, it’s just as easy to arrange a trip from Uppuveli. It only means the boat ride will be a bit longer.

What’s in the name? While it seems like a funny name for a coral island, it’s derived from the Rock Pigeon, a native endangered bird living amongst the rocks on the island.

How to Get to Pigeon Island from Trincomalee

You can easily see Pigeon Island from the coast north of Trincomalee. The island is only about 200m in length so it’s not overly big, but it’s only 1km away from the shore on Nilaveli Beach.

The only way to reach the island is by organising a boat tour from Nilaveli Beach or Uppuveli Beach. This is incredibly simple to arrange as you’ll find many snorkelling and diving shops on the beachfront selling their tours and renting equipment. Or your accommodation will also be able to arrange for you.

The tours are pretty standard. They include a boat trip to and from the island, all diving or snorkelling equipment, and some snacks. Not all tours include a snorkelling or diving guide, but I would suggest you request one.

You can easily arrange a Pigeon Island snorkelling trip once you arrive through any operator or I highly recommend using Rangan . He’s a certified diving instructor and is always happy to take people out snorkelling or diving to Pigeon Island. His WhatsApp no is +94 715213701 or you can find him at The White House in Uppuveli Beach.

Otherwise, check out some of these tour options and book in advance.

How Much Does it Cost to go to Pigeon Island?

The Pigeon Island National Park fee is USD$42 per person just to enter the island marine park. Then, the boat operators charge around 8000 LKR for the trip.

In total, I paid 20,000 LKR , which included the national park fee, boat trip to and from the island from Uppuveli, snorkelling gear, snacks, and Rangan as a guide.

When is the Best Time to Visit Pigeon Island in Sri Lanka?

The best time for snorkelling and diving at Pigeon Island is from April until October . This is the dry season in the north of Sri Lanka, and you’ll more likely get clear skies and calmer and clearer water.

I was there at the start of September and it was pretty nice. Water clarity can differ throughout the season, so it’s best to go around mid-season for the best chance of clear water.

Snorkelling vs Diving at Pigeon Island: Which is Better?

You might automatically assume that diving would be better at Pigeon Island. However, I have to say that this is one place you’ll want to opt for snorkelling instead. I’ve never been diving before, but Rangan told us that snorkelling is actually better for Pigeon Island.

The shallow reef on the south side of the island is ideal for snorkelling and means you can see reef sharks, turtles, and plenty of fish very easily. Although the reef on the northern side is meant to be more vibrant.

Scuba diving is usually done on the north side of the island where it’s deeper, but it’s much harder to see sharks and turtles on that side. In fact, two people on our trip opted for diving and they were disappointed when they didn’t get to see very much.

Snorkelling with Rangan on the south side, we saw sharks, turtles, and plenty of fish. But I think having him as a guide also helped, because he knew the behaviour of the marine life and was able to show us exactly where the sharks usually swim in from.

Half Day Trip to Pigeon Island for Snorkelling: What to Expect

We left around 9.30am from Uppuveli Beach. Rangan, me and another girl from The White House hostel . We also had a couple joining us for the boat trip. We climbed into the speed boat just in front of Uppuveli Beach and the trip out to the island only took about 20 minutes.

We arrived on the south side of the island, where the boats park while visitors clamber ashore. There’s a small beach there, with some trees for shade, otherwise, there are no facilities on the island.

The snorkelling area is next to the boats on the south side of the island. You’ll see rope in the water marking out the safe zones for the Black Tip Reef Sharks and coral reef rejuvenation. Once we got our snorkelling gear ready, we got into the water outside of the cordoned-off area.

The water was beautifully warm and surprisingly clear, despite it being towards the end of the season. However, there were a lot of small jellyfish in the water, although they didn’t sting at all, only clouded some of my vision as I was swimming.

Rangan gave us some responsible snorkelling tips , such as not standing on or touching the coral, and not chasing or swimming too close to the sharks. They’re highly protected under the national park status.

We spent over two hours in the water with Rangan, as we followed him around and let him show us different fish and marine life. The highlight was seeing a couple of reef sharks, a sea snake, a few turtles (including two turtles swimming together!), and lots of tropical fish.

Once we got out, we waited for the diving couple to finish, and then we all climbed into the boat to head back to Uppuveli Beach. Rangan had been great fun, and it was well worth the steep price for a half day trip. I hadn’t been snorkelling in a few years, and it far exceeded my expectations, especially with the chance to swim with turtles and sharks.

Snorkelling Trip Essentials

• Reef Safe Sunscreen SPF30
• SPF 15 Lip Balm
• Quick drying towel
• Hemp bucket hat
• Teva Sandals
• Reusable drink bottle

Where to Stay in Trincomalee

Most people stay in Uppuveli Beach , which is just north of Trincomalee town. This is where I stayed just one street back from the beach and it’s a very chill place. You’ll only find a handful of restaurants, bars and accommodation options, making it quieter than the south coast of Sri Lanka.

You can also stay closer to Pigeon Island by heading to Nilaveli Beach . This is more secluded and offers some nicer beachfront accommodation. I’ll give a couple of recommendations for both Uppevli and Nilaveli.

The White House | I highly recommend this place for budget travellers or solo travellers. Rangan runs this small guest-house just one street back from the beach. He has two private rooms and one dormitory, with a lovely garden. He cooks delicious food and is a great snorkelling guide. Prices start from AU$16 per night. Check availability here .

Golden Beach Cottages | For something a little more upmarket and right on the beach, these double bed cottages boast sea views and have an onsite restaurant right on the sand. Prices start from around AU$40 per night. Check availability here .

Oceanic White House, Nilaveli | If you want to be further away from the main town and beach area but closer to Pigeon Island, then this cute budget guesthouse is a nice option. Double rooms start from AU$20 per night. Check availability here .

Villa Nilaveli Cabana | For more luxury, try these cabanas right on the beachfront of Nilaveli. In a very quiet spot, you’ll find these double bed villas starting from AU$120 per night. Check availability here .

Other Places to Go Snorkelling in Trincomalee

If you want to avoid paying the high price for the national park fee, you can opt for snorkelling and diving trips out to Navy Island and Swami Rock in Trincomalee. This way you only have to pay for equipment and the boat.

Swami Rock has a few dive sites, including a ship wreck off the coast of the old fort or Navy Island is more popular and is next to the Sri Lankan Navy area in Trincomalee.

Trincomalee is also famous for being the seasonal home of Blue Whales, the largest mammal on earth. You can go whale watching or even swimming with blue whales , but only from around April to September. They migrate around the island though, so timing can be difficult to predict sometimes.

However, diving trips with Blue Whales usually require a 30-40km boat trip off shore, so be prepared for a long day. Contact Rangan to know more about diving with blue whales. His WhatsApp no is +94 715213701 or you can find him at The White House in Uppuveli Beach.

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Trincomalee, the Enchanting Town of Beautiful Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka is a striking island with plenty to offer to the entire world. Thus, this island is indeed a major tourist attraction , and it is at all times eager to welcome tourists. However, among many amazing cities within the country, Trincomalee, also famous as Trinco, happens to be a major highlight. It is a vibrant city by the sea, and is one of the most beautiful locations on the island that never fails to amuse and attract any. Thus, we thought of exploring the splendours of this delightful city through this read! Excited, isn’t it? Here we go!

The Significance of this Beautiful Town!

This small town of Trincomalee includes diversity, culture, and religion. Moreover, in Trincomalee, there is a whole range of natural and cultural attractions perfect for exploration. Moreover, wildlife , hilltops, and rock formations surround the town. With all these, Trinco creates a wonderful place that anyone is bound to fall in love with.

Also, perched on the East coast of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee holds one of the most beautiful natural harbors in the world. The town is branded best for relaxed walks on the long, sandy, and perfect beaches . Yes, the town has one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. The popular Nilaveli and Uppuveli beaches include priceless elements associated with pristine white sands and sparkling sapphire waters. Moreover, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing , fishing, and whale watching are a few of the water sports available in these clear waters.

Moreover, this town is indeed a remarkable destination rich in picturesque scenery and proud history. Of course, it is such a wonderful destination, with a bunch of delights. A walk through the below sections will certainly prove the amusement of this city to you in detail!

Geographical and Climatic Features of Trincomalee

Also known as Gokanna or Gokarna, Trincomalee is located 237 kilometres or 147 miles to its north-east of Colombo, 182 kilometres or 113 miles to its south-east of Jaffna, and 111 kilometres or 69 miles to its north of Batticaloa, facing the Trincomalee Harbour. The city holds an area of 2,727 square kilometres.

Furthermore, according to the Köppen climate classification, Trincomalee has a tropical wet and dry climate. From March to June, the city experiences a dry season. Further, it is followed by a rainy season for the rest of the year. The city receives around 1,570 millimeters (62 in) of rainfall on an annual basis. Trincomalee’s average temperatures range around 26 °C (79 °F) in December and January, and around 30 °C (86 °F) in the summer months of April through September.

Moreover, Trincomalee has 13 local authorities out of which two are Urban Councils and the remaining 11 are Divisional Councils namely as Pradesh Sabhai or Pradeshiya Sabha. Divisional Secretary, previously known as an Assistant Government Agent, leads each of the 11 Divisional Secretary’s Divisions (DS Divisions) in Trincomalee District. Besides, there are 230 Grama Niladhari Divisions within the Divisional Secretary’s Divisions (GN Divisions). Furthermore, according to the District Statistics Branch’s 2019 estimate, the total population of Trincomalee is 426,182. Besides, for over two centuries, Trincomalee has been one of the major hubs of Sri Lankan Tamil language speakers and Hindu culture on the island.

Ancient Trincomalee

Trincomalee, previously termed as Gokanna, is a town and port on Sri Lanka’s north-eastern coast. To be specific, it is on a peninsula in Trincomalee Bay. Formerly recognized as Koddiyar Bay, means “Fort by the river” is one of the world’s finest natural harbors. The size and security of the harbor act as the key reason for its fame. Being different from other harbors in the Indian Ocean, it is open to all craft in all weathers. According to the British, it’s called the “finest harbor in the world”. Also, it is famous as the ‘most important colonial possession on the globe.

Trincomalee’s documented history dates back over two and a half thousand years. To be specific, it starts with a pre-modern civilian settlement affiliated with the Koneswaram temple. Also, Trincomalee holds a special place in the history of Sri Lanka , especially as a highlight that impacted the colonization on the island . It acted as a major maritime seaport in the island’s foreign trade history with South East Asia.

Along with the Portuguese invasion of the Jaffna kingdom, Trincomalee transformed into a fortified port town. This was visible after passing through the hands of the Danish in 1620, after a battle during the American Revolutionary War, and the British in 1795 before being absorbed into the British Ceylon state in 1815. And yes, the architecture of the city exemplifies some of the finest examples of native Euro contact.

The Influence of Foreign Nations on Trincomalee

Since ancient times, the natural deep-water harbour of Trincomalee has attracted seafarers, traders, and tourists from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, China, East Asia, and Australasia. However, the consideration of Trincomalee as a seaport and Hindu pilgrimage centre started in 400 BCE. Trincomalee was a significant settlement of Indo-Aryan immigrants in the earlier years. The Temple of a Thousand Columns, which is also known as, Koneswaram Temple, is a Hindu temple found at the tip of the peninsula that dates back to the 7th century or earlier.

In addition, the Portuguese were the first Europeans to settle in the town in the 17th century. However, they tore down the temple and used its stone to build a fort. The harbor of the port passed through the control of the Dutch, French, and British several times. Finally, it was permanently taken over by the British in 1795. Trincomalee’s significance as a major British base grew after the Japanese drove the British out of Singapore during World War II and the Japanese attacked the town in 1942.

Before World War II, the British constructed a huge airfield called RAF China Bay to house their RAF base as well as fuel storage and support facilities for the British fleets. Trincomalee became the homeport of the Royal Navy’s Eastern Fleet and Dutch Navy submarines after the fall of Singapore. In April 1942, a carrier fleet of the Imperial Japanese Navy invaded Trincomalee harbor and airfield as part of the war’s Indian Ocean Raid. However, in 1944 and 1945, the base was a significant launching point for British naval operations. 

The Present Condition of the Foreign Constructions

The Sri Lankan Army currently controls Fort Frederick, which was once a British stronghold. Some of the fort’s old houses, including the one, once owned by the Duke of Wellington, are converted into residences. The British government constructed groups of bungalows inside the fort primarily for their workers in the early 1950s. Moreover, after Sri Lanka’s independence, the British retained control of the harbor until 1957. A massive Naval Hospital served British naval personnel from all over the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf who were sick or wounded. The Sri Lankan Army currently uses these bungalows as a base of operations.

Interesting Tales from the Past of Trincomalee

Indeed, the town is rich with historical tales!

The town grew out of a small village on a rocky outcropping devoted to a Hindu shrine. The words Ko, Kone, and Konatha come from the Old Tamil word for “Lord,” “King,” or “Chief,” all of which refer to the god who rules here. Moreover, this term occurs in many Tamil Brahmi inscriptions from the 6th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. Trincomalee, the maritime peninsula town where Koneswaram situates, is an anglicized version of the old Tamil word “Thiru-kona-malai”, which means “Lord of the Sacred Hill,” and first appears in this form in Sambandhar’s Tevaram from the 7th century.

In Old Tamil, Kona had other meanings, such as top, and another root for the word Koneswaram may be the Tamil term Kuna (East). As a result, other translators propose terms like “sacred angular/peaked hill,” “sacred eastern hill,” or “three-peaked hill” to describe Trincomalee. 

English writers and poets used Trincomalee as an inspiration for literature and poetry at the turn of the twentieth century, and the city became linked to them. Arthur C. Clarke, who found the temple’s underwater ruins with photographer Mike Wilson, wrote 2001; A Space Odyssey based on the ruins of Reefs of Taprobane and about the city on his encounters there. The Bhadrakali Amman temple in Trincomalee features in Wilbur Smith’s novel Birds of Prey. The city appears in many of Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes novels, including ‘A Scandal in Bohemia’ and ‘A Singular Affair at Trincomalee’. Also, the burial of Jane Austen’s younger brother, British Royal Navy Captain Charles Austen, took place in Trincomalee.

Post the Declaration of Independence

Certainly, Trincomalee has a case of emerging interest because of its geostrategic location and the finding of underwater and land ruins of Hinduism. In 1950, the Urban Council of Trincomalee discovered one of the original shrines of gold and copper alloy bronze statues of Hindu ruins. 

On 3rd March 1963, the statues exhibited in a parade across the area before the reinstallation of them, during the opening ceremony in one of the compound’s newly restored shrines. Additionally, Sri Lanka took over the naval and air bases in 1957. Following Britain’s independence, the political relationship between Tamils and Sinhalese on the island weakened.

The United National Party, led by Sinhalese, and the ITAK Federal Party, led by Tamils, collapsed in 1968 over disputes over making the holy Hindu site a protected area. The Prime Minister at the time, Dudley Senanayake, removed a committee appointed by a Federal Party Minister to examine the feasibility of declaring the site safe. Following that action, the Federal Party withheld its support for the government. However, according to journalists like T. Sabaratnam, this event, along with the contributing factors of the civil war, had severe consequences. The following 30-year civil war had a major impact on the city and its district. Besides, Trincomalee was a focal point for relief efforts on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast following the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

Places to Visit in Trincomalee

The island of Trincomalee is more beautiful as it bustles with local life. To be specific, Trincomalee offers a variety of activities and sights to see such as white sands, birds, and rock formations. And why not? One can even experience an afternoon snorkeling at Pigeon Island, relax in a hammock, and watch the sunset from one of the many laid-back bars that line the beach. Precisely, the small town has several fascinating places and places of historic significance. The following list will surely prove to you these facts.

• Trincomalee Harbour
• Koneswaram Temple
• Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil
• Fort Frederick
• Nilaveli Beach
• Marble Beach
• Whale Watching
• Pigeon Island
• Trincomalee War Cemetery

Excited to know more about these places? We are sure you are! Simply check the sections below, and you will surely plan your next trip to Trinco!

1. Trincomalee Harbour

The strategic importance of Trincomalee has influenced its recent history. Indeed, great European powers competed to gain control of the port. The Portuguese, the Dutch, the French have guarded it, and there have been many sea battles around. The Trincomalee harbor; the world’s fifth-largest natural harbor, surrounded by terraced highlands, has two headlands guarding its entry, and a carriage road running around its northern and eastern edges. Trincomalee’s position, in a less developed and lightly populated area, has hindered the city’s growth in the past. Nonetheless, plans to build Trincomalee as a commercial seaport are in the process.

2. Koneswaram Temple

The temple is on a spectacular cliff that plunges into the sea. The colourful Koneswaram temple, a classical-medieval complex in the Eastern Province city of Trincomalee, sits high above the bay, surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery. One can enjoy a coconut with a view of the entire Trincomalee bay from this spot.  The place is a religious pilgrimage site and one of the five “Pancha Ishwarams” (abodes of Shiva) founded in Sri Lanka’s coastal regions to honour Hinduism’s supreme god.

In Hindu cosmology, the temple is a tribute to Shiva, the god of destruction. The temple’s entrance, guarded by an ornate and colourful Gopuram (monumental tower), reflects the opulent South Indian architectural styles seen in many Hindu temples around the world. With a recorded history dating back to the 3rd century BCE and legends referring to ancient times, the Koneswaram temple drew pilgrims from all over India. Furthermore, the shrine was destroyed in 1622 by the Portuguese; who dubbed it the Temple of a Thousand Columns and who used the materials from its destruction to fortify the heights.

The stone inscription by Kulakottan was among the objects from the demolished temple housed in the Lisbon Museum (Kunakottan). The ruins at the site include an icon with two fish and a prophecy that states that after the 16th century, western people with different eye colors will rule the country for 500 years, after which power will return to the people in the north. Several medieval texts, including the Konesar Kalvettu and the Dakshina Kailasa Puranam, mention the Hindu temple. 

3. The Dutch Fort

The entrance to the road that leads to Koneswaram is the entrance to Fort Frederick. The Portuguese constructed the fort in 1623, but the Dutch captured it in 1639. They tore it down to pieces and then reconstructed and was attacked and captured by the French in 1672.

4. Oil depot

India and Sri Lanka agreed in 2015 to construct the largest oil depot in South Asia at a port near Trincomalee. The Indian Oil Corporation in collaboration with the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation will establish the Upper Tank Farm at the abandoned World War II port known as China Bay.

5. Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil

This vibrantly colored Hindu temple is conveniently located in the heart of town. This is also famous as the Kali Kovil, and it is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. The Kovil is located just beyond the Konesar Road Esplanade, before the entrance to Konamamalai, with built-in classical Dravidian architecture (Swami Rock). Both ancient temples, which are next to the ancient Koneswaram temple, host functions during the Thiruvillah Festival procession and the Back Bay Sea Festival (Theertham Karatkarai).

6. Fort Frederik

The Portuguese found Fort Frederik in the 16th century. Currently used by the Sri Lankan military, the place is open to the public as well. Since trees mostly surround the fort, the heat of the day can be less and many deer are visible. This triangular fort named Fort ‘Triquillimale’, originally found by the Portuguese, reconstructed by the Dutch, gave a new name as ‘Fort Frederick’. It is currently a detachment of the Sri Lankan Army’s Gajaba Regiment. Fort Frederick is now a historic monument that commemorates another chapter in Sri Lanka’s colonial history.

7. Nilaveli Beach

It is in Nilaveli, a coastal town about 16 kilometres north of Trincomalee. Also, Nilaveli Beach is a lovely white sand beach, on which one can simply relax for the day, with its waves’ great for surfing, swimming, and snorkelling. The popular Pigeon Island is located about 2 kilometres out to sea, and the Red Rock Beach is located further north. Also, with its diverse plants, reef fish, and corals, Nilaveli is a biodiversity hotspot. Coconut palm groves and cattle abound in the region. Trincomalee’s residents are mainly Hindus who regard cows as sacred. Nilaveli Beach is a scenic beach on this island, and it draws a large number of visitors and locals during the year due to its golden sand and clear water.

8. Marble Beach

Marble Beach is a lovely and clean beach in Trincomalee’s Kinniya Lane. The sea is ideal for swimming, and the pristine sandy beach is perfect for relaxing. The Sri Lanka Air Force manages the popular Marble Beach Air Force Resort established there. Marble Beach, also referred to as Marble Bay Beach, is one of Sri Lanka’s most great beaches.

9. Whale Watching in Trinco

Whale-watching is a common activity in Trincomalee, with the best months to visit being March to August. One could expect to see Blue Whales and a few Sperm Whales, as well as Dolphins; mostly Spinner’s and a variety of fish species regularly, around six to eight nautical miles east of Trincomalee, which is about 30 minutes by boat. Trincomalee is rapidly developing as a major whale-watching destination on the international stage.

10. Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island is a tiny island with clear water and a small white sand beach. It is reachable by a 10-minute boat ride from Nilaveli Beach. Once used as a shooting range during the colonial period, Pigeon Island is now a popular tourist destination for locals and tourists. Its long stretches of sandy beaches and clear shallow waters are suitable for surfing, scuba diving, fishing, and whale watching.

11. Hot Springs

On the way to Trincomalee, there are seven hot springs. They are known as Kanniya, which means, ‘Kan’ as stone and ‘niya’ as land. Kanniyai’s hot springs are just 8 kilometers from Trincomalee’s city center. Seven springs are encircled by stonewalls, each offering a sublime dip in warm waters known for their healing properties. It is a high wall-bound rectangular enclosure, which houses all seven springs. To shape a well, a dwarf wall surrounds each. The water is warm, with each spring’s temperature varying slightly. Kanniya Hot Spring is a popular tourist destination for both local and international visitors in the Trincomalee district.

The Pradeshiya Sabha (Local Council) of Trincomalee is currently in charge of this. People in this area claim that hot water can help with skin problems and can treat Arthritis and Rheumatism. According to inscriptions, Buddhist monks who lived in the region during the Anuradhapura era reserved the hot springs. Ancient ruins are observable to date. Yet, the majority of them were demolished when the Sri Lankan civil war ended in 2009.

12. Trincomalee War Cemetery

Trincomalee War Cemetery is one of Sri Lanka’s six Commonwealth war cemeteries. On behalf of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence maintains it. The Hoods Tower Museum which is a military museum is located on the base. The name refers to a watchtower perched on a hill with a panoramic view of the harbor and bay.

The Bottom Line

Conclusively, let us highlight again that Trincomalee is a captivating town, with a lively seaside on Sri Lanka’s northwestern coast. Known as one of the world’s finest natural deepwater harbours, Trincomalee is successful in attracting prominent seafarers such as Marco Polo and Ptolemy to its shores. In Trincomalee, there is a range of natural and cultural attractions perfect for exploration. The location is stunning, sliding down a narrow peninsula between the Indian Ocean and the Inner Harbour, rising to the massive Swami Rock, the most prominent feature along this stretch of coast. With an intriguing old fort and sleepy back streets lined with colonial villas dotted with mosques, churches, and hundreds of colourful little Hindu temples, the town has its own understated yet distinct charm.

The temples, which belong to the town’s largely Tamil population, offer the city a distinct Indian flavor, especially when Trinco fills with the ringing of bells and the sound of music from multiple temples for the late-afternoon offering (puja). One can interact with the locals and indulge themselves in the local culture and tradition by taking exciting cycling trails and nature walks along the scenic paths of this coastal haven. A combined tour of Thiriyaya and Arisamalai also explores the area’s archaeological and cultural sites. Above all, Trincomalee is undoubtedly a vibrant Sri Lankan city where one can make lifelong memories by discovering its wonders. So, what are you waiting for? Take a step ahead, and plan your next trip to Trinco. Happy and Safe Travelling!

You may be excited for a tranquil beach vacation along a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. If not, you might be thrilled to experience the exhilaration and thrill of the incredible wildlife among the breathtaking scenery. Going further, you can even be anticipating learning about the splendor of the historical tales entwined with the island's customs. Similarly, your dream could be anywhere in these boundaries or outside of them. Nevertheless, we cherish your dream and pledge to turn it into a reality. Indeed, the Customized Tour Packages we provide serve as evidence that we honor our commitments.

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Trincomalee travel guide: endless white beaches in Sri Lanka

In this travel guide, we will tell you more about Trincomalee in Sri Lanka. What are the highligts and hotspots of this beachtown in the North of Sri Lanka. And where to eat and sleep in Trincomalee?

We backpack in Sri Lanka in November, a transitional month, in which the east of the country is confronted with the monsoon period and the south is starting to get nice weather. However, when we are here,  it is slightly different and the east currently has the best weather. And so we decide to go to Trincomalee, a city in the east of Sri Lanka with beautiful beaches.

Trincomalee: the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka

Trincomalee is located in the northeast of Sri Lanka. Due to its location, the city forms a natural harbour, but that is not the reason for our visit. This city is surrounded by vast sandy beaches that lie both north and south of Trincomalee. The most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka can be found here. Kilometres of beaches with white sand, palm trees and warm water in the sea, a true paradise.

Click here for our travel guide on Anuradhapura !

Fun activities in (the surroundings of) Trincomalee!

The following beaches, temples and activities can be reached by scooter: the perfect way to explore the surroundings of Trincomalee. You can rent a scooter from Rs1000-1500Rs a day.

Visit Nilaveli beach

About ten kilometres north of Trincomalee, you will find beautiful Nilaveli . This is a four-kilometre long beach with white sand and clear sea. It is quieter here than on Uppuveli Beach and there are parts where you won’t see a hotel, beach bar or even people, just palm trees!

Visit the Thirukkoneswaram Kovil Temple overlooking the ocean

View the colourful sri pathrakali amman kovil temple.

In the centre of Trincomalee, you will find the Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil  temple. And you really should visit this place! Not only because it is such a colourful temple, but mainly because of the images that you will see inside the temple.

Enjoy the tranquillity and clear water at Marble Beach

You will find Marble Beach about twelve kilometres south of Trincomalee. This beach is located in a beautiful bay. Here you will find white sand, a super clear sea surrounded by forests and soldiers. Soldiers? Yes, this area belongs to the Air Force and so you will see some soldiers at the entrance. The only hotel that is located here is also from the Air Force: the Marble Beach Air Force resort .

Because of this owner, you won’t see many tourists here, therefor we had this beautiful beach all to ourselves. At the end of the afternoon, slowly groups of local people and children walked up to the beach, furthermore, we were all by ourselves.

Spot whales and dolphins

The region around Trincomalee is known as one of the best places in the world to spot blue whales. In addition, you will also find a lot of dolphins and sometimes a sperm whale here. The best way to see the animals is to do a boat excursion (from Rs12500 / 62.50 Euro for two people). Check with your hotel or at one of the beach bars in Nilaveli about the departure times.

Relax at the nice beach bar Fernandos on the beautiful Uppuveli beach

Really a must: a visit to the beach club  Fernandos . This is located on Uppuveli beach , a nice beach just six kilometres from the city of Trincomalee. Relax in a hammock or drink a cold beer or nice cocktail. They play good music and there is a swimming pool (unfortunately not open when we were there due to low season).

The best restaurants in Trincomalee

We were in November, low season, in Trincomalee and so a number of restaurants were closed. In November there are hardly any other tourists. A nice restaurant that was closed when we were here is Cafe on the 18th .

Wood Cape This is your go-to when you fancy a lot of cheap food. A large plate of Kottu (finely chopped roti with vegetables) costs only 1 euro here. In addition, the service is good and it’s centrally located! Click here for the location.

Coconut Beach Lodge This restaurant, which belongs to the Coconut Beach Lodge hotel , serves tasty fresh fish in a romantic setting. Romantic? Yes, we were sitting at a table on the beach with candles. Isn’t that idyllic? Click here for the location.

Fernandos This beach bar is the place to be. It is located on Uppuveli beach, a nice beach with many hotels nearby and is the ideal place to have a drink and relax a bit. Stick with the drinks and have your food somewhere else though, we ordered hummus and wrap and both dishes were not great. Click here for the location.

Gomesz’s Pasta Hut Gomesz’s Pasta Hut is really a place you MUST go! We only discovered it on the last evening, had we been there before I am sure we had eaten here every night. Two sweet old gentlemen serve tasty pasta, good pizzas and delicious fish. And all very budget-friendly. Click here for the location.

Planning your trip through Sri Lanka? Then read this blog with the ultimate  Sri Lanka itinerary ! Including tips and an overview of all the highlights in Sri Lanka. 

The best hotels in Trincomalee

There are more than enough good hotels in the Trincomalee area. We stayed near Uppuveli Beach, something I recommend you to do too. It’s close to a beautiful beach, with plenty of restaurants nearby and a scooter away from the city itself. Below are three hotels that we can recommend, including a hotel in Nilaveli.

Silaa Cabana € Uppuveli

We stayed in the new cabanas from Silaa Cabana, these are spacious and fully equipped. The hostess is very nice and is always ready to help you. You stay here from €17.50 a night including breakfast (2 people).

Amaranthe Bay Resort & Spa €€€ – Uppuveli

This beautiful hotel is located just outside the centre of Uppuveli. It has a lovely swimming pool, overlooks the lagoon and has modern and spacious rooms. You can sleep in pure luxury here starting at €50 per night (2 people).

Amanta Beach €€ Nilaveli

A cosy hotel with a private beach and a swimming pool. The hotel is freshly decorated and is known for the delicious dishes in its restaurant every day. You sleep here from €45.00 per night including breakfast (2 people).

↠ Click here for our free Sri Lanka hotel guide !

How to reach Trincomalee?

There we were: in a tuk-tuk with more than 100 kilometres ahead. The buses did not run due to a public holiday, but we really wanted to go to Trincomalee! Fortunately, the ride was not too bad and we fully enjoyed the beautiful nature that we drove through. Other ways to get to Trincomalee can be found below.

From Colombo

• There is a train from Colombo to Trincomalee twice a day (including a sleeper train). This takes eight hours. The price is € 1-5, depending on which class you choose.
• By  bus,  it takes about seven hours to complete this journey, but nowadays there are buses with air conditioning and express buses that only take six hours. The latter costs €5 – €10.
• With a taxi,  you will reach Trincomalee in four and a half hours. You pay around €75 for this.

From Anuradhapura

• There is a direct bus from Anuradhapura to Trincomalee which takes three to four hours. Price: Rs 350 / € 1.75
• With a tuk-tuk, it will take about two and a half hours and you pay Rs 5000 / € 25 for this.
• Finally, you can also go by taxi . This only takes an hour and a half and costs Rs 8000 / € 40.

After Trincomalee to Sigiriya for Lion Rock? Read our guide about this place!

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Visit Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

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Trincomalee (also referred to as Trinco) has always been an important eastern town throughout Sri Lanka's history.

In recent years it has been a place of much civil unrest, but is now open again to visitors. The town is best known for its harbor which is the biggest natural harbor in the world, which have seen the ships of the Portuguese, Dutch and British, among others, over the centuries.

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Trincomalee by contacting one of our Sri Lanka specialists

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Suggested itinerary featuring Trincomalee

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Trincomalee, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Northern Sri Lanka tour including Jaffna

14 days from $6,350pp

Map of Trincomalee

Places & hotels on the map, places near trincomalee.

• Minneriya National Park 46 miles away
• Polonnaruwa 47 miles away
• Passikudah 51 miles away
• The Cultural Triangle 54 miles away
• Sigiriya 54 miles away
• Anuradhapura 59 miles away
• Dambulla 63 miles away
• Pallepola 79 miles away
• Kandy 98 miles away
• Jaffna 114 miles away
• Nuwara Eliya 116 miles away
• Bandarawela 122 miles away
• Hatton 124 miles away
• Horton Plains 126 miles away
• Adam's Peak 132 miles away
• Negombo 135 miles away
• Yala National Park 140 miles away
• Udawalawe National Park 145 miles away
• Colombo 148 miles away
• Wadduwa 159 miles away
• Sinharaja Biosphere 160 miles away
• Bentota 171 miles away
• Tangalle 179 miles away
• The Southern Coast 188 miles away
• Galle 189 miles away

Photos of Trincomalee

Accommodation choices for Trincomalee

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Trincomalee. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Jungle Beach

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8 Affordable US Trip Ideas So You Can Finally Plan That 2024 Getaway

Posted: November 9, 2023 | Last updated: November 9, 2023

If you have been aching to get away , now is the time to start planning your 2024 vacation. While international travel may still cost an arm and a leg, flights within the U.S. are pretty affordable. If you plan now, you may be able to sneak away for a long weekend for less than ever.

I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024 Find Out: How To Get Cash Back on Your Everyday Purchases

At GOBankingRates, we asked travel experts from around the country where the best and most cost-efficient destinations will be next year. Here are 8 affordable trip ideas so you can finally plan that 2024 getaway.

Miami or Sarasota, Florida

Molly Egan, a travel and hospitality expert and founder of themollyegan , recommended Florida as an inexpensive destination.

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She stated, "For a beach getaway in Florida, such as Miami or Sarasota, plan a visit in October or early May to avoid peak times. You will avoid the snowbird crowds, spring breakers and heat, and best of all, snag a great lodging and flight deal!"

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Bozeman, Montana

Egan noted that for western adventures, she would suggest, "Bozeman, Montana, in June and October, which are slow times for the city, so that you can snag an affordable deal! The same timing goes for Western Colorado towns such as Vail, Colorado."

She continued, "The beginning of October is a great time to see the leaves changing, go hiking, feel like you have the whole mountain town to yourself and find the best lodging deals. If you are interested in skiing, the best time is late November or early December and early to mid-April (the skiing conditions vary, but the deals are the best)."

See: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Savannah, Georgia

Tracy Kennedy, an experienced travel advisor at Tasmania , noted, "If you're eyeing an affordable yet enriching U.S. trip for 2024, Savannah, Georgia, should be high on your list. The city is a perfect blend of traditional Southern charm and modern allure, and it's an ideal destination for a 2-3 day weekend getaway. Flights to Savannah are usually economical, with multiple carriers offering competitive rates."

She added, "Once there, you can enjoy quintessential forms of tourism such as exploring the historic district, strolling through Forsyth Park, and taking a riverboat cruise. The culinary scene is exceptional but won't break the bank, offering classic Southern dishes that are rich in flavor but easy on the wallet."

She also stated, "However, what sets Savannah apart is its unique offerings like the Sorrel Weed House Museum. This historic haunted house provides an unforgettable experience, especially if you're planning a trip around Halloween. Not only does it offer a glimpse into 19th-century life in the South, but it also has its share of ghost stories and paranormal activities, adding a thrilling element to your visit."

Asheville, North Carolina

Adrian Todd, an outdoor and travel expert, hiking coach and owner of Great Minds Think Hike , said, "One of my favorite places to go to is Asheville. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a great destination with various things to do."

He continued, "Asheville has some of the most breweries in and around than most places East of the Mississippi. You can hike in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit the Biltmore Estate, or explore the artsy downtown area."

Santa Fe, New Mexico

"Santa Fe is a really neat place," Todd also noted. He explained it is "full of neat adobe style houses and architecture. I recommend going to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, but to make sure to book way ahead in advance."

He also suggested, "Check out the oldest house and church in the US near the downtown area. Be sure to visit the Loretto Chapel to see the mysterious staircase and head to the downtown area during the market when all the natives come by to sell handcrafted items."

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Stanley, Idaho

For fishing and outdoor activities, Todd recommended Stanley, Idaho. He said it is "a small town located to the East in Idaho. It is a beautiful mountain time hugged by the Sawtooth Mountains. I highly recommend checking this place out during the summer months when it is a lot warmer."

He continued, "Go fishing along the Salmon River, hiking to Sawtooth Lake, and camping near Redfish Lake. There is so much to do for all outdoor lovers in this destination."

Nashville, Tennessee

"Nashville is historically known for its live music scene and offers a vibrant atmosphere and many free or affordable activities," stated Todd. "You can explore the city's music history, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, and enjoy live music in honky-tonks," he said.

The hiking enthusiast added, "There are also a lot of things to do out in nature in Tennessee if the city life isn't your cup of tea. Check out the Great Smoky Mountains to visit the most popular and visited national park in the US."

Loveland, Ohio

"Loveland, Ohio, is known as the 'Sweetheart of Ohio,'" explained Krista Rose, marketing and communications coordinator for the City of Loveland. "We are the perfect destination for a Midwest trip on a budget! We are often told Loveland feels like a 'resort town' and 'time slows down here.'"

She continued, "Loveland is located about 15 miles north of Cincinnati and close to major highways including I-75 and I-71. We are known for our river and trails, making us a favorite trip for outdoor enthusiasts."

For outdoor adventure seekers she recommended, "the Little Miami Scenic Trail is an 80-mile bike/pedestrian trail across Ohio. This trail runs through the center of Loveland. Visit for a day of canoeing, kayaking, and outdoor adventure! After you explore the trail, explore Historic Downtown Loveland's unique shopping and dining. There are quaint AirBNBs and a boutique hotel in town."

You can learn more about the city by visiting LovinLifeLoveland .

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Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

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While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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