Trincomalee is a vibrant port city that lies on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, a little over one hundred miles south of the northernmost district of Jaffna. As of 2007, the city held a population of one hundred thousand. The city is constructed on a cape, a piece of land that seems to carefully divide the harbour. It is also the abode of the renowned Koneswaram Temple, the most esteemed and honoured holy site revered by the Hindu community.
Over the years, the city has been active being one of the key elements of the international and maritime trading processes of Sri Lanka. Referred to in Pali as Gokanna, it was once the Hindu King Ravanan’s capital city, followed by the reign of King Sangili around the 13th century.
Accessible to any type of vessel during any point in time of the year it is unlike any other harbour in the Indian Ocean. The water and land areas of the port are ten times as great as the Port of Colombo. It conveniently serves break bulk cargo and bulk carriers along with industrial, tourist and agricultural activities. The beautiful beaches that stretch along the coast of Trincomalee are often frequented by tourists; while enjoying the tropical sun, it is the perfect place for surfing, fishing and scuba diving and as of recent times, whale watching.
Surviving through three periodic invasions, of the Dutch, British and Portuguese the city underwent transformations of which delicate remnants still remain. The temples that were constructed were taken apart by the Dutch, converting them into a grand fort. The British used this as a barricade against the Japanese during World War II. Although the city was bombed by the Japanese, there was no real threat of invasion.
The bay is also the quarters of the most prominent Sri Lankan Naval bases and a Sri Lankan Air Force base. Studded with a mass of ancient Buddhist temple ruins, the city is heavy with historical inscriptions and chronicles drawing regular tourists to this archaeological and cultural site, made perfect with therapeutic views and wonderful weather. The island is adorned with the finest beaches such as Uppaveli, Nilaveli and Pigeon Island and travellers can experience the best of tropical services during their holiday.
Any traveller seeking accommodation at Trincomalee hotels will find luxurious services with the warmest hospitality that Sri Lanka is renowned for. Chaaya Blu Trincomalee is one such Trincomalee beach hotel that is delightfully furnished with retro-chic design and equipped with four star amenities.
