The island nation of Sri Lanka, endowed with magnificent scenery and fascinating artifacts, had the renowned explorer Marco Polo spellbound. Try traveling to Sri Lanka’s unexplored east if you’re itching to feel the same kind of amazement. The expansive coastline, secret bays, and white sand beaches will send you into a state of relaxation and mesmerization. The fishing villages have a unique, earthy atmosphere that is truly captivating. A little less developed, the East’s charm shines with abundant sunshine, Muslim customs centered around the sea, exquisite Hindu temples, crumbling colonial forts, and lively marketplaces.
The East’s comeback
The eastern province of Sri Lanka is undoubtedly stunning, but the region has been scarred by years of conflict and instability as well as the terrible aftermath of the 2004 tsunami. Driven by the desire for harmony and security, this region in the east is gradually reassembling itself and achieving remarkable success. All throughout the region, there is a renewed sense of confidence, as evidenced by the major towns of Trincomalee and Batticaloa, which have resumed their commercial activities. Uppuveli and Nilaveli’s breathtaking beaches are hard to miss, and Passekudah’s expansive bay offers the discriminating traveler a serene haven. In addition to being the ideal starting point for visits to the national parks of Yala and Lahugala as well as the isolated forest hermitage at Kudimbigala, Arugam Bay is fast gaining popularity among surfers worldwide. The lush countryside, where elephants and other wildlife roam freely, as well as the national parks of Maduru Oya and Gal Oya, are well worth a visit.
Here are a few of the most notable locations in Eastern Sri Lanka.
The port city of Trincomalee
Perched atop one of the most exquisite harbors globally is Trincomalee. Here, on the grounds of the 17th-century Fort Frederick, sits an ancient Buddhist temple. The magnificent Koneswaram Temple, situated atop the Swami Rock cliff in Gokarna Bay, is a well-known spot for whale watching. Awe-inspiring landscapes surround the temple and pilgrimage site, with the enormous Shiva statue serving as the main attraction.
Arugam Bay, the surfing hotspot
The stunning Arugam Bay is a popular destination for surfers and sun worshippers due to its soft sand, point break, and laid-back beach atmosphere. Arugam is the ideal place to take in the waves and be inspired by the natural world, far away from the boisterous vibe of the west coast. It’s also an excellent place to begin excursions to the remote forest hermitage at Kudimbigala, as well as to the national parks of Yala and Lahugala.
Pigeon Island National Park
This national park is more than just a place where rock pigeons build their nests; it’s also home to hundreds of reef fish, including blacktip reef sharks, and turtles, as well as soft, powdery white sands and shimmering coral gardens.
The Uppuveli and Nilaveli beaches
The perfect locations for peaceful ocean adventures are Uppuveli and Nilaveli, with their fresh seafood, traditional charm, and cozy beach atmosphere. Uppuveli, with its long sandy beach and clear waters, has an earthy vibe, despite its somewhat rough edges. Situated farthest north of Trinco, Nilaveli Beach provides access to Pigeon Island as well as private marine experiences.
Pasikuda Beach
Pasikuda Beach, located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its stunningly clear waters, shallow shoreline, and long stretches of soft, golden sand. This idyllic beach has become one of the most popular destinations in the country, especially for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque getaway. Pasikuda Beach is a hub for water-based activities. Visitors can indulge in swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, exploring the colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life that thrive in the area. The calm waters are also perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. For those interested in more adventurous pursuits, jet skiing and windsurfing are available as well.
The amazing town of Ampara
The town of Ampara is tucked away in the countryside, surrounded by lakes, palm groves, and paddy fields. It offers some of the most breathtaking views and experiences in all of nature. You can paddle outrigger canoes across the lagoon, take part in mangrove ecotours (Pottuvil is the best place), and explore the rich and untamed ecosystem while looking for crocodiles, lizards, kingfishers, birds, and monkeys.
Kumana National Park
With a focus mostly on avifauna, Kumana offers a serene zoo experience that is less crowded than Yala National Park. Through the watchtowers, one can observe vast flocks of migratory wading birds and waterfowl calling it home. Along with the lush vegetation, which includes mangrove trees, kumbuk trees, and the karan fern, one can also spot turtles, cobras, elephants, and leopards here.
When to visit
April to September
While monsoonal rains pound the rest of the country, the eastern region of Sri Lanka flourishes. April through September are the ideal months to visit because of the generally dry weather and infrequent rain showers. It can get really hot, so wear plenty of sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
For travelers, the January–April school term provides a more sedate break. The intermonsoonal period, when there are lots of great deals and fewer people, is considered off-peak season. If you don’t mind the erratic rains, now is a great time to visit.