trip to trincomalee essay

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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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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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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• 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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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

Trincomalee Travel Guide: Underrated Beach Destination in Sri Lanka

Trincomalee, or Trinco for short, is arguably one of Sri Lanka’s most underrated destinations. While plenty of tourists flock to the beautiful south coast of the island, only a few have started to venture to the northeast.

With a laidback attitude, long stretches of white sand and clear water, interesting Hindu culture, and delicious fresh seafood, Trincomalee has the perfect combination for a beach holiday. A handful of hotels and resorts, beachfront bars, and snorkelling centres have popped up along Uppuveli Beach, but it still feels a lot more raw and authentic compared to the south coast or Arugam Bay.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, swim with turtles on Pigeon Island, or explore some Hindu temples, Trinco has plenty to keep you busy for a few days at least. I spent nearly a week there in Uppuveli Beach, and it was definitely one of my favourites places in 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

How to Get There

Depending on how you’re organising your Sri Lanka itinerary, most people arrive in Trincomalee from the south, although you can also come from Jaffna in the north. The easiest way to reach Trinco is by local bus; trains to Trincomalee do exist but are generally a lot slower.

Here are the common ways to get there:

• From Dambulla: There are several buses per day travelling between Dambulla and Trincomalee (mostly buses that have originated in Colombo) taking around 3.5 hours and costing about 600LKR (AU$3)
• From Sigiriya: Take a local bus to Inamaluwa Junction for 80LKR which takes about 20-30 minutes, then wave down any bus number 49 passing through on the way to Trincomalee, journey will take about 3 hours and cost 500LKR (AU$2.50)
• From Colombo: Regular buses (bus number 49) leave for Trincomalee in the morning taking about 7 hours or you can opt for a private night bus which leaves at 11pm
• From Anuradhapura: There are a couple of buses running to Trincomalee per day which takes about 3-4 hours
• From Jaffna: There are several buses per day travelling to Trincomalee taking around 5 hours and costing about 900LKR (AU$5)

How Long Should You Stay in Trincomalee

This really depends on how much time you’re willing to spend chilling at the beach. You could easily spend as little as two days in Trincomalee. There’s not a whole lot to do, but I would recommend staying for at least three days if you plan to tick off all the things I recommend to do below.

I stayed a week, and could have easily stayed longer. It’s a very easy place to hang out and watch the time pass as you relax in paradise. It’s less tourist-oriented than the south coast of Sri Lanka or Arugam Bay, so if you prefer to escape the party scene of down south, you can stay much longer in Trincomalee.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Trincomalee is from April until September . This is the dry season in the north of Sri Lanka, so you can expect very hot but dry days. The ocean is warm and clear during these months, so it’s perfect for snorkelling and diving. This is also the best time of year for whale watching, as most of the whales come up from the south coast.

Outside of these months, it’s considered low season in Trincomalee. The rainy monsoon brings a lot of miserable days and the water clarity becomes murky after October.

Where to Stay in Trincomalee

When travellers say Trincomalee they usually mean Uppuveli Beach, about 5km north of Trincomalee centre. Very few people opt to stay in town, with Uppuveli Beach being a very nice place to chill out.

If you want even more seclusion, you can also stay even further north in Nilaveli Beach, which is a beautiful white sand beach about 10km further north of Uppuveli. Here are my top picks for Uppuveli 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, 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 .

Where to Eat in Trincomalee

When staying in Uppuveli Beach area, you basically have two options for food; beachfront bars or more affordable local restaurants. There are some nice restaurants and bars along the beachfront, which offer beautiful sunset views and a mixture of Sri Lankan and Western food.

Otherwise, you’ll also find some more affordable restaurants along Sarvodaya Road, just back from the beach, which have some delicious Sri Lankan food a short walk from most accommodation. Here are my top picks:

• Rice’n’Curry: A very popular place, their buffet rice and curry dinner is one of the best places to eat in town. They also do fresh seafood on request, at reasonable prices.
• Nina’s Restaurant: My go-to for lunch, Nina’s restaurant is a family run place that serves up delicious rice and curry and other Sri Lankan favourites at reasonable prices.
• Be Cool Juice Bar & Sea Food Restaurant: Back from the more fancier places, this small cafe is a great place for breakfast with delicious smoothies and juices. Or for dinner, go for the Sri Lankan classics like kottu.
• Cafe on the 18th: If you’re looking for Western style food in a more upmarket setting, then this cafe is for you. It’s easily one of the most popular places in Trincomalee, particularly their breakfast and coffee. It’s on Uppuveli Beach next to Fernando’s Bar.

9 Best Things to Do in Trincomalee

The stunning coastline around Trincomalee has plenty of things to keep you busy for a few days, especially if you’re keen to get in the water. Here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Trincomalee:

Snorkelling Trip to Pigeon Island

Trinco is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for diving and snorkelling. You’ll find beautiful coral reef and plenty of sea life up and down the coast and inside the bay. The most popular place for snorkelling is Pigeon Island National Park.

You can take a boat trip from Uppuveli or Nilaveli and spend a couple of hours snorkelling or diving around the reefs of Pigeon Island just off the coast. Here, you’ll find plenty of turtles, reef sharks, tropical fish, and colourful coral (although much of the coral is still regenerating from the 2004 tsunami).

I took a morning snorkelling trip to Pigeon Island with Rangan from The White House, and it was one of my highlights from Sri Lanka. You can read more about it in my post below.

Read more: Snorkelling Day Trip to Pigeon Island

Explore Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick was originally built in the 17th century by the Portuguese. Later taken over by the Dutch and then the British, it’s occupied by the Sri Lankan military today.

Built around the small peninsula jutting out into the ocean near Trincomalee town, it’s definitely a must see while exploring the east coast. The fortified walls are still very well preserved, along with some ruins of the former outposts.

You can wander around within the old fort, where you’ll find a couple of lookouts, many deer amongst the trees (random, I know!), and the famous Koneswaram Temple at the end of the point.

Note that as of 2023, there is an entry fee for the fort which is $10USD for foreigners.

Admire the Views from Koneswaram Temple

At the end of the peninsula and Fort Frederick is the famous Hindu temple, Thirukoneswaram temple. It’s one of the most important Hindu temples in the whole country, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Believed to date back to 400BC, it’s been rebuilt and destroyed many times over the course of history. Currently, there are multiple small shrines, a prayer hall and large Shiva statue that occupy the site.

Wander around and admire the worshippers who come to prayer, as well as the incredible views of the ocean and harbour from behind the statue.

Relax on Uppuveli Beach or Nilaveli Beach

The benefit of staying in the Uppuveli Beach area is that you have a beautiful long beach stretching right along the coast just a short walk away. Some accommodation have their doors literally on the edge of the sand, while others are just one street back.

While not as crowded and tourist-oriented as other beaches on the south coast, Uppuveli has a few bars, sun bed lounges and snorkelling shops right on the sand. You can buy a drink and relax on the sun lounges for as long as you like.

For more seclusion, head north to Nilaveli Beach. This is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, with a longe stretch of white sand, palm trees and very few people. It’s just 10km north of Uppuveli, so a tuk tuk will cost around 1200 LKR one way.

Sunset Drinks on the Beach

Head down to the beach in Uppuveli around sunset time for a drink at one of the bars. Many of them have happy hour specials where you can enjoy a Pina colada or try the local arrack.

The most popular spot is Fernando’s Bar, which has an appealing vibe around sundown and the only real place in Trincomalee where you can enjoy a bit of a party atmosphere. During the day, they have sun beds, fresh juices, and snacks. However, for the price, I think there’s better places to eat in Trinco.

Go Whale Watching

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, usually in the dry season from April until September. However, they migrate around the island and the timing can be difficult to predict sometimes.

However, whale watching and diving trips 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.

Learn to Scuba Dive

With plenty of dive schools and beautiful diving sites around the coast, if you’ve ever been interested in learning to dive, Trinco is one of the better places in Sri Lanka. There are several diving centres and schools offering PADI scuba diving courses for beginners up to advanced divers.

You’ll need a minimum of 3 days to complete the beginner course. Otherwise, divers who are already familiar with breathing under the water can head out to diving sites like Pigeon Island, Swami Rock, and the HMS Hermes ship wreck.

Any of the dive schools on the beach in Uppuveli can help you plan a diving trip or course. But I recommend contacting Rangan for all your snorkelling and diving needs, his details are above.

Observe Worshippers at Sri Badrakali Amman Temple

Another interesting local temple, wander into Sri Badrakali Amman temple not far from the central bus station in Trincomalee main town. It’s dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali who is believed to be an incarnation of goddess Kali Amman.

It’s a colourful temple inside and out with paintings, mini statues, and depictions of Hindu gods. Entry is free, but please respect the worshippers by dressing respectfully and not bothering them while they’re praying.

Visit the Local Fish Market

If you walk from the bus stand to Fort Fredrick, you’ll come across the local fish market. While not the most appealing place to visit with a strong stench of fish, it does offer an insight into the local community and culture.

You can see plenty of seafood on offer, including lots of dried fish which is a very popular Sri Lankan delicacy.

Where to Next? More Sri Lanka Travel Guides:

• Colombo: 24 Hours in Colombo: Best Things to Do in Colombo
• Hiriketiya: Hiriketiya Beach: Guide to Sri Lanka’s Little Coastal Paradise
• Weligama: Review of Layback Surf Camp in Weligama
• Galle: Best Things to Do in Galle in 2 Days
• Digital Nomad Travel: Digital Nomad in Sri Lanka: A Guide for Remote Workers

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Best Things To Do And See In Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an enchanting island – the changing climate every 20 kilometers, the rich cultural and historical heritage, mythologically significant locales, hill country area, wildlife parks and, of course, the beaches all around the island. When one does visit the island, which is also known as ‘The Pearl of the Indian Ocean,’ Trincomalee is one of the favored towns. Getting to the town with a remarkable natural harbor, however, could get tiresome as it is about 233.7 kilometers away from the airport by road. For those who are willing to spend some extra money, the travel time can be reduced to 45 minutes with the domestic air taxi service – Cinnamon Air, which flies from Bandaranaike Airport to China Bay near Trincomalee. Once you get there, Trinco is a joy to explore. Captured below are the must-see and must-do things in the charming town of Trinco.

Whale watching.

Recognized as one of the best vantage points by oceanographers for whale watching, you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity to spot blue whales (between March and April) and sperm whales (between August and September). Small boats carrying a maximum of six passengers zoom about 30-50 kilometers into the ocean where one can easily spot whales playing, swishing, and, if you’re lucky, their acrobatic skills.

Dolphin Watching

1. Pigeon Island

Pigeon island.

For all the water babies, this one’s a delight. Named after the rock pigeons that lived there, Pigeon Island is an ideal spot for snorkeling and spotting corals and marine life – there have even been instances where tourists have swum with octopuses at Pigeon Island. Isn’t that exciting? Make sure a guide escorts you to ensure safety. Pigeon Island, Sri Lanka

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2. Koneswaram Temple

Koneswaram Temple

A mythology fan or not, the temple set atop a cliff in part of an ancient Dutch fort provides a picturesque view of the ocean and the quaint Trinco city. The famous Ravana Cut, also known as Lover’s Leap, is also located here. There is a space where one will find small cradles tied to trees outside the temple. The belief here is that when couples aren’t able to have children, they pray at the temple and tie a cradle to the tree in hopes that they will have a child. Koneswaram Temple, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka , +94 77 879 1463

The large Lord Shiva statue at Konneshwaram temple in Trinco | © Nicole Figueiredo

3. Kanniya (Seven Hot Wells)

Kanniya (seven hot wells).

The Kanniya Hot Springs is believed to have first been mentioned in the Ramayana . The seven wells have seven varying temperatures of water from lukewarm to extremely hot. Tourists with religious beliefs usually come to bathe here. Kanniya Hot Springs, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Three out of the seven hot wells | © Nicole Figueiredo

Additional Locations to Visit

Additional locations to visit include the Commonwealth war cemetery, natural harbor, local Dutch lounges, and the Trinco market area. There are also other temples that are worth visiting around Trincomalee and Nilaveli. Apart from all the visiting and spotting, lazing on the beach and going for a swim are two other activities you must do. NOTE: Cinnamon Air from Bandaranaike Airport to China Bay, Trincomalee costs $227 USD upwards per person. Also, do not miss the Jaffna chili crab at The Crab restaurant at Trinco Blu. If you’re a seafood lover, this preparation will make you set new food goals.

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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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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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"Overwhelming beaches, temples and ports"

Trincomalee tourism.

The quaint city of Trincomalee also famously known as ‘Gokarna’ is an essential fragment of the country, contributing towards the betterment and development of the district and in a nutshell, Sri Lanka. Trincomalee is a port city famous for its white sand beaches and most beautiful harbours. The locals here predominantly speak Tamil. Owing to its long history of civilian settlements, the town is quite prominent for its culture, tradition, and its well known historical sites. The city is situated on the east coast of the island and is almost 237 kms north-east of Colombo, the capital of the country. The Trincomalee or Gokarna Bay and the ‘Then Kailayam’ (also known as Kailash of the South/Koneswaram) temple are some of the most famous spots in the city.

These attractions bind the history, ancient traditions, and the faith of Shiva to form the ‘Pancha Ishwaram’, meaning five coastal temples or ‘kovils’ in Tamil language. A population of around 99135, the city is based on a peninsula and supposedly was an important seaport in the international trading history. Trincomalee is also the administrative headquarters of the district. Besides these factual points, Trincomalee is well known for its beautiful beaches such as Nilaveli, Uppuveli and the off-shore Pigeon Island. The city is developing as an upcoming tourist destination due to the exciting whale watching point and because of its historical relevance.

Places To Visit In Trincomalee

Thirukonamalai Konesar Temple

Fort Frederick

Uppuveli Beach

Pathirakali Amman Temple

Nilaveli Beach

Maritime and Naval History Museum

Top Hotels In Trincomalee

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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 harbour which is the biggest natural harbour 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

15 days from £5,900pp

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

Tricomalee Travel Guide

The city is home to the famous ancient Koneswaram temple alluded to in its historic Tamil name Thirukonamalai from which its anglicized name is derived, and has been a sea port that has played a major role in the maritime and international trading history of Sri Lanka. It is referred to as Gokanna in Pali[1] or Gokarna in Sanskrit.trincomalee capital city of Hindu king ravanan and later around 13 cen rul by king sangili

The Bay of Trincomalee's harbour is renowned for its large size and security; unlike every other in the Indian Sea, it is accessible to all types of craft in all weathers. The beaches are used for surfing, scuba diving, fishing and whale watching . The city also has the largest Dutch fort in Sri Lanka. It is home to major Sri Lankan naval bases and a Sri Lankan Air Force base.

Trincomalee, is an anglicized form of the Tamil word "Tiru-kona-malai", meaning "Lord of the Sacred Hill"; a reference to the town's ancient Koneswaram temple.

Thiru in Tamil is "sacred", Kona means "Lord" or "Chief" while Malai in Tamil means mountain or hill.

Sanskrit texts, as well as an inscription unearthed by archeologists, call it Gokanna. The Vayu Purana refers to a Siva temple on Trikuta hill on the eastern coast of Lanka in the 3rd century. The Mahavamsa documents that the King Mahasena destroyed a Deva temple and built a Buddhist shrine in its stead to expiate for an earlier heresy on his part.

Tamil texts, as well as excavated inscriptions detail the Saivite principalities that formed in Trincomalee in service of the Koneswaram temple by the medieval age. The South Indian Tamil literature Tevaram of Tiru-gnana Sambandar makes mention to the Siva temple in Trincomalee in the 6th century.

Hotels in Tricomale

Palm Beach Guesthouse Trincomalee Club Oceanic Trincomalee Suriya Lagoon Guesthouse  Nilaveli Nilaveli Beach Hotel Trincomalee Shivas Guesthouse Trincomalee

History of Tricomalee

Trincomalee has attracted seafarers like Marco Polo, Ptolemy and Sea Traders from China and East Asia since ancient times. Trinco, as it is commonly called, has been an important sea port since the days of the ancient Sri Lankan Kings. The earliest known reference to the port of Gokanna is found in the Mahavamsa stating that in 5th century BC, when King Vijaya who having failed to convince his brother to come to Sri Lanka as his successor, got down his youngest son Panduvasdeva, who landed at Gokanna and was subsequently enthroned at Upatissagama.

King Parakramabahu I used Gokanna (Trincomalee) as his eastern port, to launch a successful invasion of Burma in the 12th Century.[14] An English sea captain and historical chronicle writer named Robert Knox came ashore by chance near Trincomalee and surrendered to the Dissawa (official) of the King of Kandy in 1659. Hence, it was an important trade city between Sri Lanka and the outside world, and one of the British Empire's most important ports in Asia during the second world war.

Trincomalee had a Portuguese force during the reign of Kandyan King Rajasinghe I. Rajasinghe finally ended with an alliance with Dutch and the Dutch invaded Kottyar Bay Fort as their first attack. The fall of the Kottyar Bay Fort was the first nail in the Portuguese coffin.

Trincomalee was occupied by the Dutch, and subsequently by French alternately, until the capture of the fort there by the British in 1795. Trincomalee was the first land to be captured by the British who fought and defeated the Dutch, who did not want to surrender Ceylon as directed by the Prince of Orange, who took refuge in London after being defeated by the French republicans under Napoleon. As such Trincomalee has served as an entrance to a western invader from Calcutta.

Historical sites in Tricomalee

The koneswaram temple..

Sri Lankan Tamils consider this place to be sacred to them and are widely believed to be the indigenous people of the area. Trincomalee and its environs have many Tamil Hindu sites of historical importance. These sites are sacred to the Hindus and some Buddhists worship in these Hindu sites.

Even though King Mahasena demolished the Sivan Temple and built a Mahayana Buddhist temple on the hilltop the Hindus of this area maintain a good peaceful relationships with the minority Sinhala Buddhists living in the area. This was possible because Hinduism being a peaceful religion was tolerant and does not advocate violence even when the Buddhist committed disruptive acts.

Hindu historical sitesThe Koṇēsvaram temple attracted pilgrims from all parts of India[citation needed]. The Koṇēsvaram shrine itself was demolished in 1622 by the Portuguese (who called it the Temple of a Thousand Columns), and who fortified the heights with the materials derived from its destruction[citation needed]. Some of the artefacts from the demolished temple were kept in the Lisbon Museum including the stone inscription by Kulakottan (Kunakottan)[citation needed]. It has an emblem including two fish and is engraved with a prophesy stating that, after the 16th century, westerners with different eye colours will rule the country for 500 years and, at the end of it, rule will revert back to Vadugus.[citation needed] The Hindu temple was also documented in several late medieval texts such as the Konesar Kalvettu[12] and the Dakshina Kailasa Puranam.

Buddhist historical sites

There are several Buddhist historical sites around the Trincomalee, meaning that there had been a Buddhist inhabitance in the area for many centuries. These include the famous Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara (Seruwila Temple), south of the trico town, which is under consideration to be declared a UNESCO world heritage site dating back to 2nd century B.C. the Sri Gajaba Len Vihara (Sri Gajaba Cave Temple), Tiriyay temple and the Welgam temple.

The Dutch Fort

The entrance to the roadway leading to Koneswaram is actually the entrance to what used to be Fort Fredrick. The fort was built in 1623 by the Portuguese and captured in 1639 by the Dutch. It then went through a phase of dismantling and reconstruction and was attacked and captured by the French in 1672.

The British in Trincomalee

The Trincomalee beachOn January 8, 1782 the British captured the fort but the French recaptured it on August 29 of the same year. In 1783 the French ceded it to the British and subsequently Britain ceded it to the Dutch. In 1795 the British recaptured and held it until Sri Lanka's independence in 1948. The importance of Fort Fredrick was due to Trincomalee's natural harbour. Through Trincomalee, it was believed a strong naval force could secure control of India's Coromandel Coast.

Prior to the Second World War the British had built a large airfield to house a permanent RAF base, RAF China Bay and a fuel storage and support facilities for the Royal Navy and HMS Highflyer naval base based there. After the fall of Singapore, Trincomalee became the home port of the Eastern Fleet of the Royal Navy, and submarines of the Dutch Navy. The harbour and airfield were attacked by a Japanese carrier fleet in April 1942 in the Indian Ocean Raid

Until 1957, Trincomalee was an important base for the Royal Navy and was home to many British people who were employed by the British Admiralty. One of the places inhabited by the British was Fort Fredrick which is now occupied by the Sri Lankan Army. Some of the old buildings in the fort were used as residences, including one previously occupied by The Duke of Wellington. In the early 1950s The British Government built groups of bungalows within the Fort specifically for their employees.

These bungalows still exist and provide accommodation for soldiers of the Sri Lankan Army. One of the groups of bungalows was named Edinburgh Terrace. Children of the British residents attended a Royal Naval School which was part of the Naval Base.

Post independence

Sri Lankan naval ship at TrincomaleeThe naval and air bases were take over by Sri Lanka in 1957, today SLNS Tissa and SLN Dockyard are used by the Sri Lankan Navy, while the Sri Lanka Air Force is based at SLAF China Bay. The Sri Lanka Army has its Security Forces Headquarters - East in Trincomalee.

Trincomalee War Cemetery, is one of the six commonwealth war cemeteries in Sri Lanka, it is maintained by Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence on behalf of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

The Navy Base is home to a naval museum called The Hoods Tower Museum. The name of the museum refers to a watchtower built on a hill commanding a 360-degree view of the harbor and the bay.

Trincomalee's strategic importance has shaped its recent history. The great European powers vied for mastery of the harbour. The Portuguese, the Dutch, the French, and the English, each held it in turn, and there have been many sea battles nearby.

The harbour, the fifth largest natural harbour in the world, is overlooked by terraced highlands, its entrance is guarded by two headlands, and there is a carriage road along its northern and eastern edges.

Trincomalee's location, in a less well developed and sparsely populated area, has in the past hampered its own development. Nevertheless plans are under way to develop Trincomalee as a commercial seaport.

BeachesTrincomalee has some of the most picturesque and scenic beaches found in Sri Lanka, relatively unspoilt and clean. The area is famous for bathing and swimming, owing to the relative shallowness of the sea, allowing one to walk out over a hundred meters into the sea without the water reaching the chest. Whale watching is a common pastime in the seas off Trincomalee, and successful sightings are on the rise with the increase of tourism in the area.

The Trincomalee Beach in front of Chaaya Blu Resort, Trincomalee, in July 2010.[edit] Hot springsThere are the seven hot springs of Kanniya (Kal = stone; niya = land), on the road to Trincomalee. A high wall bounds the rectangular enclosure which includes all seven springs. Each is in turn enclosed by a dwarf wall to form a well. The water is warm, the temperature of each spring being slightly different. The use of the springs for bathing is controlled by the neighbouring Mari Amman Kovil, who holds the lease of the wells

3 Days Colombo Tricomalee & Pigeon Island Tour from Colombo

This is a unique tour offerred by Travel & Culture Services Sri Lanka. Detailed Itinerary is as under.

Day 01 Meet at your hotel drive to Tricomalee enroute visit the villages and remanants of war and some very interesting scenery On arrival check in at hotel. Dinner & Overnight at hotel.

Day 02 Full day Tour of Pigeon Island, the Marine National Park the newly re-opened Pigeon Island is a 41.4-hectare National Parkin Sri Lanka where you can see rare coral reefs, as well as the many species of Sri Lankan birds and, many varieties of migrating birds visiting this historical island. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03 Drive back to Colombo

Cost of the tour depends on how many people will you be and when you wish to travel. Please Contact us for costing to Booking details

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Sri Lanka | 9 reasons you HAVE to visit Trincomalee

There are endless stunning beaches just waiting to be explored in Sri Lanka, but unlike many other parts of Asia they remain untouched and uncrowded with a certain charm I have yet to find elsewhere. From the blissful south east where Mirissa and Unawatuna can be found strewn with palm trees, cute fairy lights and perfect sunrises, to the north and west where you'll find the more rugged shores of Arugam Bay and Trincomalee. There is something to suit every beach bum whether you're craving lazy days spent sunbathing, diving and discovering the incredible wildlife or chasing the surf at sunset. Sadly while travelling there for a month in November, we were tiptoeing around the rainy season and ended up spending less time on the beaches and more deep in the jungles. But we couldn't resist a trip to Trincomalee after having it recommended to us by so many locals and friends. Despite having to spend hours making our way across the country by bus, we decided to spend our last few days exploring the western shores and spoiler alert we definitely didn't regret it! In fact, when a friend was visiting Sri Lanka the following month, one of the first places I recommended she visit was Trincomalee - why? Read on to find out:

Pic by Vilmos Vincze

Snorkel with blue whales

Yes you read that correctly. Trinco is the most magical place for water babies to have a completely unique experience. Locals run trips where you can actually snorkel with blue whales while they remain protected, they actually guide documentary makers on where and how best to film them. It's pretty cheap and something you certainly won't regret. Not keen on getting up close and personal with the whales? There are also countless whale watching trips where you can view the creatures, and passing sperm whales, from the safety of a boat.

Go dolphin watching

Sri Lanka's waters are the perfect place to spot these joyful creatures jumping through the waves and the west coast is known for it's rougher waters which they love. It's the perfect place to hit the water and see dolphins being wild and free.

Visit Pigeon Island National Park

A must-see for your trip – have the ultimate desert island experience with powdery white sand, volcanic rocks and pristine reef. Pigeon Island is idyllic but it does get busy during peak season - book your trips through your hotel and enjoy a day of snorkelling and exploring. Travellers have even reported getting to swim with octopus thanks to expert guides.

Pic by Pierre Andre Leclercq

Bathe in the hot springs

At nearby Kanniya you'll find the seven geothermal wells which are very popular with both tourists and holidaying Sri Lankans.

Explore colourful Hindu temples

There are some spectacular temples to visit while in the area, but one you simply must see while you are there is the the colourful Koneswaram temple. High up in the hills, the Hindu temple is found near the dramatic Swami Rock and spectacular Gokarna Bay. Take a walk up to the top, then as you're strolling back down stop for a fresh juice overlooking the ocean.

Pic by Eleleleven

Hit the beaches

Fancy catching some sun? Look for the beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli to fulfil your need for beachy bliss and some well-deserved peace and quiet. Uppuveli is good for swimming due to the calmer waters, and is slightly more developed with more options for guesthouses and hotels – we stayed here and loved it. Nilaveli boasts a longer beach and a much quieter area but the waters are rougher and less suited for swimming.

Take a wander around local landmarks

If you love a bit of history and checking out the sights, your visit wouldn't be complete without a trip to the British War Cemetery which the locals are keen to share with you. A walk around Fort Frederick is lovely around sunset, make sure you go all the way to the top for a really beautiful view of the bay.

Pic by Adam Jones

Make friends with Bambi

Strangely, the main part of Trinco is absolutely filled with the tamest deer I have ever seen, they live right in the centre of town and sadly eat rubbish. It was a bit of a sad sight to see them making their home on the grass in-between the busy road by the bus station, but we were simply amazed at how they would let you go right up to them and even pet them.

Stay in a backpacker cave

Travelling on a budget? Trinco has accommodation to suit all needs from the luxury hotels to the budget apartments and rooms at guest houses. We stayed at the lovely Lobster Inn which was fantastic and I highly recommend it – the owners were really lovely and it was very cheap, actually cheaper than advertised on the website because it was off season. But if you're on even more of a budget, or just run out of money, try the Aqua Inn where you can stay in an actual backpacker cave – they're awesome!

Pic from TripAdvisor

Have you been to Trincomalee? Is Sri Lanka on your bucket list? What unique accommodation have you found on your travels?

*First pic credit.

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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 Harbour

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A massive natural harbour located in the Trincomalee bay or Koddiyar Bay with a five hundred meter entrance to the ocean, it is regarded as the second best natural harbour in the world. Its geographical location makes it an important naval base for military operations and has been captured by the Portugese, Dutch, French and British during the colonial period. In 1942 three British warships anchored at Trincomalee harbour were attacked and sunk in the waters by the Imperial Japanese Navy.

The harbour consists of about 5,261 hectares of land, 1630 hectares of water, five hundred meter wide entrance and a submarine canyon making it one of the finest deep sea harbours. The Sri Lanka Port Authority managed the harbour and currently it supports Sri Lanka’s economic operations as a commercial port.

Places to eat near Trincomalee Harbour

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Places to stay near Trincomalee Harbour

Things to do near trincomalee harbour.

Must-see attractions in Trincomalee

Kandasamy Kovil

Trincomalee

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…

St Mary’s Cathedral

Of the city's churches, the 1852 Catholic St Mary’s Cathedral is particularly attractive, with a sky-blue neo-baroque frontage and a tiled, towered rear…

Kali Kovil has the most impressive, eye-catching gopuram (gateway towers) of Trinco’s many Hindu temples. It's always busy.

Gokana Temple

There are fine views of Trinco and the coastline from here.

Buddha Statue

This big standing Buddha statue is at the Gokana Temple.

Fish Market

Fishy interest is provided at the raucous daily fish market near the bus station. Early mornings are busiest.

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Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — Journey — The Description Of The Pasikudah Island In Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

The Description of The Pasikudah Island in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

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Guest Essay

I’m a Doctor. Dengue Fever Took Even Me by Surprise on Vacation.

By Deborah Heaney

Dr. Heaney is a physician in Ann Arbor, Mich.

I hate mosquitoes so much that I take my own bug repellent to parties. But in early March, on a trip with my partner to the idyllic island of Curaçao off Venezuela, I was caught off guard by insect bites after our bed-and-breakfast hosts said that mosquitoes didn’t usually appear until late summer.

Near the end of the vacation, my legs began to ache. After I couldn’t keep up with my partner on a snorkeling adventure, he pulled me from the water. My ribs felt broken, as if I’d been smashed against large boulders in the sea. Later that day came intense fever, alternating with shaking chills.

Back in Michigan — weak, nauseated and dehydrated from explosive diarrhea — I ended up in the emergency department. Tests showed worrisome white blood cell levels and abnormal liver numbers. The physician assistant who saw me was perplexed; she gave me IV fluids and medication for nausea and sent me home.

A few days later I developed itching so severe that I couldn’t sleep. A bright red rash spread over both thighs and up my lower back. My brain was foggy, and my balance was so impaired that I would have failed a sobriety test. My primary care doctor had no answers. But as my head began to clear, it occurred to me to request a dengue fever test.

Two days later, the test was positive.

Despite my training in medicine, I was blindsided. Dengue, a mosquito-borne illness, is surging through Latin America and the Caribbean, including in Puerto Rico, where a public health emergency was declared last week. This year is likely to be the worst on record, in part because of El Niño-driven temperature spikes and extreme weather linked to climate change. As temperatures rise and precipitation patterns grow more erratic, the problem will get only worse.

But neither the traveling public nor our frontline health workers are prepared. Without urgent reforms to how we educate travelers, doctors, nurses and others — as well as reforms to public health surveillance and early warning systems — we will be doomed to miss textbook cases like mine. That means those infected with dengue will miss out on timely treatment, possibly even spreading the virus to areas where it was never found before.

The dengue virus, which is primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, infects up to 400 million people every year in nearly every region of the world, but it is most prevalent in Latin America, South and Southeast Asia and East Africa. Most cases are asymptomatic or, like mine, are considered mild, although the aptly nicknamed breakbone fever often doesn’t feel that way. Some 5 percent of cases progress to a severe, life-threatening disease including hemorrhagic fever.

One malicious feature of dengue is that when someone is infected a second time with a different type of the virus, the risk of severe illness is higher. A vaccine exists, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends it only for children ages 9 to 16 who had dengue before and live in places where the virus is common. That’s because, paradoxically, if you’ve never had dengue, the vaccine puts you at greater risk of severe illness your first time.

Dengue outbreaks, which, in the Americas, tend to occur every three to five years , now appear to be expanding their geographic reach as temperatures climb . The Aedes aegypti mosquito has typically had difficulty surviving and reproducing during the winter in temperate climates. But in parts of Brazil, which is experiencing a dengue emergency , the thermometer no longer dips as low in the winter as it once did, allowing the bugs to reproduce year-round. Overall, Latin America and the Caribbean have had three times the number of cases this year as reported for the same period in 2023, which was a record year. Higher temperatures are also helping the virus develop faster inside the mosquito, leading to a higher viral load and a higher probability of transmission. And mosquitoes are benefiting from standing water from rains and floods that are growing more extreme in a warming world.

As the virus spreads globally, travelers are bringing infections back to the continental United States. Based on 2024 numbers to date, this year should show a clear increase of cases here at home compared with 2023, given that the typical dengue season hasn’t even started yet. There could also be local outbreaks in places like Florida, Texas and California, which experienced small ones in the past. As Dr. Gabriela Paz-Bailey, the chief of the C.D.C.’s dengue branch, told me by email, “Increased travel to places with dengue risk could lead to more local transmission, but the risk of widespread transmission in the continental United States is low.”

But since testing is done only on a small fraction of cases, many are going uncounted. I was the one who requested that I be tested. Had I not been given a diagnosis, I would not be aware of my increased risk of severe illness if I am reinfected. Getting a diagnosis is crucial to inform those infected in areas where the Aedes mosquito lives so that the virus doesn’t spread further.

The growing risk means travelers to regions with dengue must be savvier: They can check local news and U.S. State Department advisories, bring an effective insect repellent and protective clothing and book lodging with air-conditioning or screens on the windows and doors. Though Aedes aegypti mosquitoes now live year-round in many locations and are pushing northward into new regions , thanks to climate change and other factors, there are still seasons when the risk is greater, and travelers might consider avoiding trips during those periods. Travel insurance with medical coverage may also be a useful precaution.

For medical professionals, this should be a warning. We need to start thinking about dengue as a possible diagnosis, not just a piece of textbook trivia. We should ask about recent travel when treating patients presenting with symptoms, especially symptoms not easily explained by other diagnoses.

Medical schools are gradually integrating climate change effects into curriculums . This is essential, since malaria, Lyme, West Nile and other insect-borne diseases are on the rise, as are other conditions like heat illness, asthma and allergies that are worsened by climate change. This work must accelerate, and training must include those of us who are already practicing. State medical boards should consider mandating continuing education on tropical emerging illnesses, as they do on many other pertinent topics.

After receiving my positive test result, I called the emergency department to leave a message for my previous provider about my diagnosis, assuming she had never before seen dengue. If we continue on this trajectory, I’m certain this won’t be her last case.

Deborah Heaney is a preventive, occupational and environmental health physician practicing in Ann Arbor, Mich. She also holds a master’s degree in public health.

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An earlier version of this article included an incorrect reference to the mosquitoes that spread dengue. They are members of the Aedes genus, not species.

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