The East Coast of Sri Lanka, a captivating region bathed by the azure waters of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Renowned for its pristine beaches, the coastline stretches along the Eastern Province, inviting travellers to explore its golden sands and crystalline waves.
Trincomalee | img via Wikipedia commons
Trincomalee
Trincomalee stands as a substantial town centered around a harbor acclaimed as one of the world’s finest. Despite its immense tourism potential remaining largely untapped, the area is an intriguing destination with its captivating beaches to the town’s north, particularly at Uppuveli and Nilaveli.
Passikudah
Widely acknowledged as the premier beach on Sri Lanka’s eastern coastline, Passikudah boasts an expansive bay, though it has been somewhat impacted by extensive post-war development. Nearby, the captivating town of Batticaloa is a compelling destination with its expansive lagoon and a history that, while intriguing, carries elements of tragedy in recent times. However, there are many hotels in Passikudah, such as the Amethyst Resort.
Arugam Bay
Moving southward, Arugam Bay, renowned for its world-class surfing conditions during the appropriate season, drew committed surf enthusiasts even throughout the years of conflict. Presently, it is experiencing a swift rise in popularity within the international surfing community, along with a few other spots in Sri Lanka.
Gal Oya
Further inland, the national parks of Maduru Oya and Gal Oya are gradually reopening, offering expansive natural wonders. Additionally, there are numerous sites of religious and cultural importance to explore in the surrounding areas – although much of the infrastructure of these areas is less developed in comparison to the rest of the country.
