Sri Lanka's East Coast Splendor

Unveiling the Riches of Culture, Nature, and Adventure

If you are a traveler who’s excited to explore a little less developed, a coastline that retains an earthier, local feel. Or maybe you just want the finest beaches, east coast the ideal place which would fill all your finest desires. It’s a culturally fascinating combination of ocean-orientated Muslim communities, astonishing Hindu temples, crumbling colonial forts, dazzling markets, and a coastline of killer surf, hidden bays and stretch-for-kilometres white-sand beaches.Sri Lanka’s picturesque east coast comes into its own from April to September, when monsoon rains are prevalent in some other parts of the island. This lightly-populated region is once again playing host to tourists attracted by the white-sand beaches of Pasikudah and Nilaveli, Snorkeling at the famous Pigeon Island Marine Park, the chilled-out surfing resort of Arugam Bay, Batticaloa’s dreamy lagoons and some of Sri Lanka’s quieter national parks such as Gal Oya and Kumana.

The entire region is well linked to the rest of the country by road, bus and rail, so there’s really no reason to skip the many allures of the East.

The 4 main cities of tourist attractions in east coast are,

Arugam Bay – Surfing and Birds National Park – 6.5 – 7.5 hours from the airport
Gal Oya – Elephants swimming and Vedda Life – 1.45 hours from Arugambay
Batticaloa – White Sand Beach and Safe Swim – 3 hours from Arugambay
Trincomalee – Hindu temples and Snorkeling – 5-6 hours from the airport / Arugambay

Why East Coast is Special?

Don't miss the other side of the island.

If you are a traveler who’s excited to explore a little less developed, a coastline that retains an earthier, local feel. Or maybe you just want the finest beaches, east coast the ideal place which would fill all your finest desires. It’s a culturally fascinating combination of ocean-orientated Muslim communities, astonishing Hindu temples, crumbling colonial forts, dazzling markets, and a coastline of killer surf, hidden bays and stretch-for-kilometres white-sand beaches.Sri Lanka’s picturesque east coast comes into its own from April to September, when monsoon rains are prevalent in some other parts of the island.

Destinations

Welcoming you to a Culturally fascinating combination of picturesque Ocean, astonishing Hindu temples. Curmbring Colonial forts, dazzling markets and a coasting of killer surf,. hidden bays and stretch for kilometres White - Sand beaches.

Do have a look on what each city has to offer and how Asian Island can arrange the perfect vacation for you in east coast.

ARUGAMBAY
‘’If you love surfing you will definitely love Arugambay.’’

Arugambay is the most popular surfing point in Sri Lanka because of its geographical location. It’s a tiny shaped surf beach located 314 km away from Colombo in Ampara district. Best time to visit is in the months of May until September. The town has managed to retain its small-town charm while gaining popularity among tourists and can be another British street.
I agree, this is one of the best places for surfing in the world but who knows there are other lots of things to do other than surfing?

There are plenty stuff do in Arugambay such as,
Safari at Kumana National Park,
Arugambay Village Tour (TUK TUK safaris),
Kudumpigala Monastery,
History of Vihara Mahadevi,
Lagoon Safaris,
Camping at Elephant Rock,
Panama Tank – Crocodiles.

GAL OYA
''Love to see elephant swim? Visit Gal Oya National Park''

Discover the serene beauty of Gal Oya in Sri Lanka's eastern Uva Province, established in 1954 to safeguard the Senanayake Samudraya reservoir. Offering unique boat and jeep safaris, visitors can witness diverse wildlife, including over 150 bird species and elephants swimming between islands. Gal Oya also provides insight into the ancient Vedda tribe, the island's last indigenous people.

Dating back to 6th century BC, Veddas once inhabited Sri Lanka's forests but now reside in reservations, preserving their unique way of life amidst modern influences. Experience a blend of nature and culture at Gal Oya National Park.

PASSIKUDAH
''Looking for white sandy beaches with calm waters like that of a swimming pool?''

Passikudah, a global surfing hotspot on Sri Lanka's east coast, beckons with its world-class waves and laid-back ambiance. Surfers of all levels flock here for consistent breaks and ideal conditions. Beyond surfing, explore nearby Kalkudah Beach's serene sands and crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxation. 

Dive into local culture with bustling markets, delectable seafood, and friendly locals. Whether seeking the ultimate wave or tropical bliss, Passikudah delivers an unforgettable experience. Those places allow not only safe swim it also allows the tourist to see stunning sunset in the evening, cycling tour to get know fisherman’s lifestyles, windsurfing, water skiing, diving and snorkeling. Embark on a sun-soaked adventure, ride the waves, and create cherished memories in this idyllic paradise. With stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, it's a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the perfect blend of surf and relaxation.

Things to see

Kalkudah and Passikudah
Kallady Beach- It’s the popular serene beachfront
Batticaloa Fort
Batticaloa Lagoon
Kallady Bridge- this was the first bridge in this area and the longest bridge long time back.
Batticaloa Lighthouse
St Mary’s Cathedral
Unnichchai Tank
Hindu Temples
Kattankudy Heritage Museum


 

TRINCOMALEE
''Are you ready to Uncover Eastern Sri Lanka's Best-Kept Secret?"

Trincomalee, nestled in Sri Lanka, boasts a rich tapestry of history and natural splendor. Its renowned deep-water harbor has been a maritime hub since ancient times, witnessed by its unique rock formations and strategic significance in past conflicts, including defense efforts by the British Navy.

The city's cultural heritage is evident in its ancient kovils from the 12th century and Dutch influences dating back to the 17th century. Notably, King Rajasinghe II sought Dutch assistance to expel Portuguese invaders, marking a pivotal moment in its history.

Trincomalee's allure extends beyond its historical landmarks, offering pristine beaches, azure waters, and lush landscapes for nature enthusiasts to explore. Whether uncovering ancient ruins, diving into maritime history, or simply soaking in coastal serenity, Trincomalee promises an unforgettable journey through time and natural beauty, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its captivating ambiance.

Places to visit in Trincomalee:

The Natural Harbour,
Uppuveli Beach,
Pigeon Island – Snorkeling at its best,
Thirukkoneswaram Kovil,
Fort Frederick,
Marble Beach,
Nilaveli Beach,
War Cemetery,
Sri Pathrakali Amman Temple,
Kanniya Hot Water Springs,
Maritime and Naval History Museum,
Army Museum,
Leap Lovers,
Kokanna Temple,
Dutch Bay Beach,
Trincomalee Bay,
Sober Island,
Sri Lakshmi Narayana Narayana Perumal,
Rawana Abyss,
Manayaweli bay.

Nilaveli
Thinking of staying away from city and walk with your partner on the beach for a long-distance? Nilaveli is the best beach for you. Indescribable natural beauty of the beach with many palm trees, a number of restaurants and guesthouses. Most of the Sri Lankan visitors are love to swim here because of the clean beach with white sand and blue water. You will also have the chances to do the board rides in the sea with lifeguards as well. The best time to visit April to November.

Pigeon Island National Park
Wants to feel the Life underwater, Visit Pigeon Island. If you’re visiting Trincomalee one of the must thing to do snorkeling at Pigeon Island National Park which is located 1 Km away from Nilaveli beach. You can reach the park by a small boat within 15/20 minutes. The corals around the island is a great place to snorkel in our point of view. This park allows the opportunity to see some reef sharks, lots of color fishes and turtles.