The east coast is home to some of the most exquisite beaches in Sri Lanka, and Trincomalee stands out as one of the most beautiful. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs found on the southern coast, Trincomalee offers a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere. In my opinion, Trincomalee was one of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka.
Trincomalee offers much more than just pristine beaches. During my recent visit, I was pleasantly surprised by the abundance of activities and sights to explore. In fact, I had initially planned to stay for only two nights but ended up extending my stay to six. Trincomalee boasts the most stunning coastline in Sri Lanka, and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to experience it fully.
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Trincomalee, including lesser-known attractions, you’re in luck. I’ve compiled a list of 17 awesome activities, along with plenty of useful information to help you make the most of your visit.
Things to do in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
1. Snorkel at Pigeon Island
Swimming beach and bay on Pigeon Island National Park just off the shore of Nilaveli beach in Trincomalee Sri Lanka
One of the most popular activities in Trincomalee is visiting Pigeon Island. It’s a top tourist destination in Sri Lanka, offering the chance to snorkel with colorful fish, turtles, and even small reef sharks. Pigeon Island is accessible only by boat, located about 2.5 kilometers off the shore of Trincomalee. It’s an ideal half or full-day trip from the city.
However, there are a few downsides to visiting Pigeon Island. Over-tourism has taken a toll on the island, leading to significant damage to the coral reefs. Therefore, don’t expect to see vibrant corals. It’s crucial to be mindful of the remaining coral and refrain from touching or causing further damage.
Visiting Pigeon Island can be quite expensive, with an entrance fee ranging from 3,000 to 4,000 rupees per person. The cost can be divided among a group to reduce individual expenses. Additionally, snorkel gear rental costs about 500-600 rupees.
For a hassle-free experience, consider booking your Pigeon Island trip in advance through this reliable tour.
2. Go Whale Watching or Swim with Whales
Whale watching in Sri Lanka
From June to August, whale watching on the east coast of Sri Lanka is a popular activity. These once-in-a-lifetime tours offer mesmerizing opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The official whale watching season in Trincomalee begins in May and runs until the end of October. However, sightings can be unpredictable at the start and end of the season. Fortunately, most tour providers offer a 50% discount on another tour if you don’t spot any whales.
Whale-watching tours in Trincomalee typically cost between $40 and $60 USD and last about 2 to 4 hours. The tours usually depart early in the morning.
If simply observing whales isn’t enough for you, Trincomalee is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with these magnificent creatures in the wild. Swimming with whales is a restricted activity, making it more expensive. However, it’s an extraordinary experience well worth the $220 USD price tag.
Regardless of the experience you choose, encountering whales is an absolute must in Sri Lanka.
3. Explore Fort Frederick and Enjoy a Juice with a View
Fort Frederick is a must-visit attraction in Trincomalee. This centuries-old fort has withstood the test of time and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. While exploring the fort grounds, don’t miss the opportunity to relax and enjoy a refreshing juice with a stunning view of Trincomalee.
As you enter Fort Frederick, head towards Koneshwaram Temple, a famous Hindu temple. Along the way, you’ll find various vendors lining the walkway, some of which are fresh fruit juice restaurants. These establishments provide a perfect spot to savor a chilled juice while taking in the breathtaking vistas of Trincomalee and Uppuvali Beach.
On a hot summer day, this is the ultimate way to unwind, especially after a full day of sightseeing or exploring the Koneshwaram Temple. The best part is that a juice costs only around $1 USD.
4. Explore the Colorful Koneshwaram Temple
Located within Fort Frederick, the Koneshwaram Temple is a magnificent Hindu temple and one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites. Inside the temple, you can marvel at intricate artwork and statues, observe religious ceremonies conducted by Hindu priests, and even sample some fruit offerings.
The temple is well-maintained and provides an enchanting glimpse into the local culture. While visiting, keep an eye out for the wildlife surrounding the temple, such as spotted deer and monkeys.
Entry to the temple is free, but be sure to dress appropriately with your knees covered. If you’re wearing shorts, don’t worry – the temple provides a large fabric piece to tie around your waist for free. Additionally, you’ll need to remove your shoes and pay a small fee of 20 rupees to the shoe storage attendant.
5. Take in the Views at Gokanna Raja Maha Viharaya
When exploring Fort Frederick, make a stop at Gokanna Raja monastery and viewpoint. After climbing a few stairs, you’ll reach a large viewing platform situated at the base of a tall white Buddha statue. From there, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Trincomalee and Uppeveli Beach.
The short 5-minute walk to the viewpoint is well worth the effort. Once you’ve taken in the view, you’ll be filled with a sense of awe and satisfaction. Entrance to Gokanna Raja Maha Viharaya costs 200 rupees, payable to the residing monk in the parking lot.
If you prefer a guided tour of Fort Frederick, the viewpoints, and the temples, consider booking a half-day tuk-tuk tour. This affordable tour will take you to all the best spots in Trincomalee.
6. Relax at the Beautiful Dutch Bay Beach
Dutch Bay Beach is a hidden gem frequented by locals on weekends in Trincomalee. Its serene atmosphere and crystal-clear calm waters make it an ideal spot to cool off after exploring the fort, nearby temples, or the Maritime Museum.
Located just around the corner from the Fort’s entrance gates, Dutch Bay Beach offers a pristine white sandy coastline. If you’re lucky, you might even spot pods of dolphins, making it not only one of the most beautiful beaches in Trincomalee but in all of Sri Lanka.
7. Visit the Maritime Museum
Although I’m not usually a fan of museums while traveling, the Maritime Museum in Trincomalee surprised me. This well-curated museum provides an informative and engaging experience, shedding light on Sri Lanka’s maritime history.
During our visit, we had the opportunity to join a guided tour, where the knowledgeable guide shared valuable insights about the exhibits and answered our questions. The tour lasted around 30 minutes, and at the end, we were treated to stunning views from the museum’s rooftop.
Entrance to the museum is by donation, and we gladly contributed $5 USD each to support such an interesting establishment.
8. Swim at the Pristine Marble Beach
Marble Beach stole my heart as the most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka. Its pearly white sand, calm swells, and strikingly blue water create a picture-perfect scene. This beach is located within the Sri Lanka Air Force grounds, which ensures its exceptional cleanliness.
While there is a public access area that allows you to enjoy the beach and swim for free, there’s also a more exclusive section accessible by purchasing something from the restaurant located on the grounds. Marble Beach is about a 30-minute drive from Trincomalee.
9. Indulge in Delicious Seafood at Ralla Restaurant
For the best dining experience at Marble Beach, head to Ralla Restaurant. This beachside eatery offers stunning views, whether you choose to be seated at a table or lounge on the sand. But it’s not just the views; the food at Ralla is exceptional.
Despite my initial expectation of high prices and mediocre quality, I was pleasantly surprised. I ordered a seafood platter for only 1200 rupees, which included crab, squid, fish, prawns, veggies, and rice – a delicious feast. My partner enjoyed a generous portion of fish and chips for just 1000 rupees.
Considering the prices at other seafood restaurants in Trincomalee, Ralla offers excellent value for money. I highly recommend having lunch here during your day trip to Marble Beach. By doing so, you can enjoy the expansive beach area and make full use of the provided lounge chairs.
10. Hike to the Top of Diamond Hill
If you’re up for a bit of adventure while at Marble Beach, embark on a hike up Diamond Hill. This large hill adjacent to the beach offers stunning views of the bay and the ocean from its summit. The hike takes about an hour to complete and is relatively easy for most fitness levels.
Though I didn’t have the chance to hike Diamond Hill during my visit, I’ve heard rave reviews about the breathtaking vistas awaiting those who reach the top. If you do attempt the hike, I’d love to hear about your experience!
11. Enjoy a Sunset Swim and Beer at Uppuveli Beach
Uppuveli Beach is the main beach area in Trincomalee, situated near many hotels and restaurants. As a popular tourist spot, it’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing beer while witnessing a beautiful Trincomalee sunset.
Several restaurants along Uppuveli Beach offer beachside seating and cold beer. It’s best to expect prices around 500 rupees for a large beer, which may be considered relatively expensive in Sri Lanka. Fernando’s is a particularly popular spot among tourists, known for its swings, lounge chairs, loft, and occasional DJ performances or beach bonfires.
12. Go Scuba Diving
Trincomalee is home to exceptional scuba diving spots. Joining a dive boat trip will take you to some of the best diving locations in Sri Lanka. With numerous scuba companies in town, prices are competitive and generally more affordable compared to the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Typically, you can expect to pay around $70 USD for two boat dives.
Scuba diving in Trincomalee is best from April to September when the monsoon season subsides. The most popular dive sites are shallower than 18m, making them suitable for beginners or those with the PADI Open Water certification.
13. Visit Nilaveli
For a more relaxed alternative to Trincomalee, consider visiting Nilaveli, a neighboring town just north of Trincomalee. Located on Nilaveli Beach, this small town offers guesthouses, affordable restaurants, and a stunning beach. Many tourists prefer staying in Nilaveli due to its tranquil ambiance, but day trips from Trincomalee are also an option.
From Nilaveli, you can easily arrange a boat trip to Pigeon Island, which is closer to Nilaveli than Trincomalee. You can also take day trips to other attractions in Trincomalee. During our trip, we drove our tuk-tuk to Nilaveli and stayed for a few nights in a cozy guesthouse. It provided the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the beach.
14. Snorkel at Red Rocks
If you’re looking for an alternative to Pigeon Island, consider snorkeling at Red Rocks. Located on the north end of Nilaveli Beach, Red Rocks offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Large rocks in the water create an ideal habitat for colorful fish, and the snorkeling spot can be easily reached from the shore.
Although many tour companies offer guided tours to Red Rocks, you can also explore it independently. Simply walk to the end of Nilaveli Beach (approximately 15 minutes) or take a tuk-tuk. Once you reach the river mouth, you’ll see the rocks. Snorkeling from the shore is possible without a tour.
Snorkel gear can be rented from most restaurants or guesthouses in town for about 600 rupees per day, including fins. We rented our gear from Mama’s Juice Bar.
15. Savor Delicious Pasta at Gomesz’s Restaurant
While Sri Lankan food should be your first choice, it’s worth mentioning Gomesz’s Pasta Hut, a hidden gem in Trincomalee. This locally owned restaurant serves incredible pasta with homemade sauce. The owner, Gomesz, takes great pride in his food and offers various other options on the menu, such as seafood and pizza.
Despite my initial reservations about prices and quality, Gomesz’s Pasta Hut exceeded my expectations. A generous portion of pasta costs between 500 and 750 rupees, making it an affordable and delightful dining experience.
16. Take a Day Trip to Sigiriya or Lion’s Rock
If you’re short on time and unable to explore all of Sri Lanka, consider a day trip to Sigiriya. Although Sigiriya may appear quite far on a map, it’s actually less than a 2-hour drive from Trincomalee. During your day trip, you can climb the famous Sigiriya Rock (also known as Lion’s Rock) or embark on an elephant safari in one of the nearby national parks.
If you prefer to skip the climb up Sigiriya Rock, Pindurangala Rock provides an easier and more affordable alternative.
Sigiriya offers an abundance of incredible experiences, and I recommend a day trip only if time is limited.
17. Visit Salli Muthumariamunam Kovil
Situated just north of Uppuveli Beach, Salli Muthumariamunam Kovil is a Hindu Temple located on the water’s edge. Despite its slightly faded appearance, the temple offers stunning views of the ocean and the nearby fishing boat storage area.
Although Salli Muthumariamunam Kovil is a frequently visited temple, it may not meet everyone’s expectations. As an alternative, I recommend saving your time and energy for more exceptional temples such as the Dambulla Cave Temples, one of the must-visit attractions in Dambulla.
A Couple of Things I Would NOT Do in Trincomalee
While exploring Trincomalee, there are a few attractions that might not live up to expectations:
- St. Mary’s Cathedral: This church, while somewhat picturesque, didn’t strike me as particularly remarkable.
- Kanniya Hot Springs: These hot wells are more popular among locals for ceremonial purposes. Given the already hot weather, I believe it’s best to leave them as non-tourist attractions.
Where to Stay in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
Trincomalee offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are my top recommendations based on their location, price, and positive reviews:
- Low Budget: The Social Shack is a centrally located backpackers hostel offering dorm rooms with or without air conditioning. The modern hostel has friendly staff and provides a sociable atmosphere.
- Mid-range Budget: The Blue Sands, where I stayed, is a beachfront hotel offering beautiful rooms at an affordable price. The included breakfast is delicious, the rooms are comfortable, and the location is excellent.
- Luxury: Amaranthe Bay Resort & Spa is a quiet and luxurious option, perfect for those seeking a more upscale experience. The resort boasts a large pool and serves amazing food. For a special treat, consider booking a room with a Jacuzzi.
Getting Around Sri Lanka
To explore all the best places in Sri Lanka, you’ll need a mode of transportation. Here are a few options to consider:
Rent a Tuk-tuk
Renting a tuk-tuk is not only the most popular but also the most enjoyable way to travel around Sri Lanka. During my trip, I rented a tuk-tuk and absolutely loved the experience. Tuk-tuks are easy to drive, inexpensive to rent, and provide the freedom to explore at your own pace.
If you decide to rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, I recommend choosing a reputable company that offers quality vehicles, such as Tuktuk Rental, from whom we rented. These reliable providers not only offer excellent service but also ensure that the tuk-tuks are rented from local families, supporting the local community.
Use the coupon code ‘DEST’ for a 5% discount when renting from Tuktuk Rental.
For more information, read our blog: The Truth about Renting a Tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka.
Hire a Driver
If you only plan to visit a couple of destinations, hiring a private driver can be a convenient option. Sit back and relax in an air-conditioned vehicle while your driver takes you to your next destination. You can arrange for pick-up right from the airport through highly-rated drivers.
For example, you can book this driver to take you from the airport to your hotel in Mirissa, Galle, Bentota, or Unawatuna. Alternatively, this driver can take you to Kandy.
For longer trips, you can book a driver for an entire week.
Take Public Transport
Public transport in Sri Lanka, including buses and trains, offers an affordable option for budget travelers with plenty of time. Buses and trains are widespread and inexpensive, typically costing just a couple of dollars per journey. However, keep in mind that these modes of transport may not be the most comfortable, lacking air conditioning and often making frequent stops to pick up passengers.
Despite the potential drawbacks, public transport is popular among budget backpackers and generally safe. It provides an opportunity to experience travel as the locals do.
Before You Go…
Thank you for reading our guide to Trincomalee, Sri Lanka! I hope this article has provided you with plenty of ideas to keep you busy during your visit. If you try any of the activities mentioned, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments below – we make sure to respond to everyone.
Enjoy your travels and have a fantastic time exploring Sri Lanka!
-Bailey
Keep Reading
We’ve written numerous informative blogs about Sri Lanka that can help you plan your trip. Some of our personal favorites include:
- Things to do in Sri Lanka: A compilation of the most incredible experiences we had throughout Sri Lanka.
- Lipton Seat, Sri Lanka: Everything you need to know before visiting one of the best viewpoints in Sri Lanka.
- Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka: Even on a short visit, there’s plenty to do in this popular tourist town.
- Guide to Nilaveli Beach, Sri Lanka: Discover why this little beach town is so awesome and how to make the most of your time there.
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