Things to Do in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka - Top Experiences for Travelers

Positioned on Sri Lanka eastern coast, Batticaloa is a treasure waiting to be explored. With its long and rich history, vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, Batticaloa offers travelers a pleasant experience when visiting here. From pristine beaches to ancient temples, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this captivating city.

In this article, we will discover a lot of things to do in Batticaloa in Sri Lanka, opening the door to paradise for every traveler to explore.

Top 5 Things to Do in Batticaloa

1. Explore Kallady Beach

No visit to Batticaloa is complete without spending some time at Kallady Beach - one of the famous Batticaloa beaches. The soft sands welcome visitors to kick off their shoes and stroll along the shoreline, while the sound of waves provides a soothing backdrop. Whether you're sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, Kallady Beach offers a tranquil escape from the busy life.

As the sun begins to set on the horizon, Kallady Beach offers a front-row seat to one of nature's most breathtaking spectacles. Witness the sky ablaze with hues of purple, pink, and orange when the sun dips below the horizon, casting a mesmerizing glow over the tranquil waters. As darkness descends, the twinkling stars emerge overhead, casting their shimmering reflection upon the still waters, creating an enchanting ambiance that lingers long into the night.

The Kallady Beach

2. Visit the Batticaloa Fort

The Batticaloa Fort, also referred to as the Dutch Fort, is nestled amidst lush greenery and tidal ponds, steeped in numerous tales and historical significance. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1628, its formidable thick walls exude a sense of grandeur and aesthetic beauty that is sure to leave visitors in awe. Inside the Fort, visitors may enjoy a panoramic view of the tranquil tidal pond, which emphasizes the beauty of the area.

Today, Batticaloa Fort serves as a cultural landmark, hosting events, exhibitions, and festivals that celebrate the city's heritage and traditions. If you want to learn more about the past or just witness the ancient architecture, Batticaloa Fort can meet these 2 demands of tourists. This all makes exploring this Fort one of the things to do in Batticaloa.

The Batticaloa Fort

3. Witness the Batticaloa Lagoon

Stretching over 56 kilometers, Batticaloa Lagoon is another one of the places to visit in Batticaloa. This is the largest lagoon in Sri Lanka and a haven for nature lovers. Take a boat tour and explore the lagoon's intricate network of waterways, mangrove forests, and small islands. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as birds, fish, and even crocodiles.

A highlight of any excursion is witnessing the local way of life, as fishermen navigate the waters in their traditional outrigger canoes, known as Oruwas, in search of the day's catch. Indeed, some of the finest lagoon shrimp and crab are sourced from these pristine waters, adding to the allure of this enchanting ecosystem.

Batticaloa Lagoon

4. Discover Ancient Temples

Batticaloa is home to several ancient temples, each with its own unique history and architecture.

• One of the most revered temples in Batticaloa is the Koneswaram Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. Positioned on a cliff overlooking the azure waters of the ocean, this sacred site exudes an aura of tranquility and reverence.

• Another notable temple in Batticaloa is the Mamangam Pillaiyar Temple, dedicated to the elephant-headed god, Lord Ganesha. The temple's vibrant colors and intricate sculptures captivate the senses, while the rhythmic chanting of prayers fills the air, transporting visitors to a state of transcendence.

• For those interested in Buddhist history and architecture, the Ayyanar Kovil Temple offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. Dating back centuries, this temple is adorned with elaborate carvings and intricate murals depicting scenes from Buddhist scripture.

Hindu Temple in Batticaloa

5. Wander Through the Bridge Market

One of the things to do in Batticaloa that you shouldn't miss while you are here is Bridge Market. Dive into the views, sounds, and smells of Batticaloa's bustling market. From fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and souvenirs, the market offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in the city.

Take your time exploring the stalls, haggling with vendors, and sampling local delicacies. Whether you're in search of a unique souvenir or simply want to experience the vibrant atmosphere, the market is not to be missed.

Travel Guide to Batticaloa Tourist Places in Sri Lanka

Where is Batticaloa?

Situated on the eastern coast, approximately 69 miles south by southeast of Trincomalee, Batticaloa is positioned on an island. Abundant in unique culture, traditions, and verdant landscapes, Batticaloa presents a plethora of experiences for visitors.

Getting to Batticaloa

To reach Batticaloa from major cities in Sri Lanka, there are several transportation options available:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Batticaloa is the Batticaloa Airport (BTC), which offers domestic flights from Colombo to Batticaloa or other major cities to Batticaloa in Sri Lanka. Flying is the quickest way to reach Batticaloa, although flights may not be as frequent as other modes of transportation.

• By Train: Sri Lanka Railways operates train services from Colombo to Batticaloa, with the journey taking approximately 7-9 hours depending on the train type and stops. Trains offer a scenic journey through the countryside, but they can be slower compared to other options.

Weather in Batticaloa

Batticaloa experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season (May to September) is characterized by minimal rainfall and warm temperatures ranging from 30°C to 33°C. During the inter-monsoon season in October and November, occasional rainfall and thunderstorms may occur. The wet season, from December to April, brings heavy rainfall and increased humidity, with temperatures averaging between 27°C to 30°C. Visitors should plan their trips accordingly to avoid disruptions due to inclement weather.

The best time to visit Batticaloa is during the dry season, which typically spans from May to September. The low humidity levels make it ideal for outdoor activities such as beach visits, sightseeing, and exploring the city's cultural attractions.

Travelers can visit Batticaloa during the dry season

Places to stay in Batticaloa

Below are some resorts that are recommended for travelers:

• Amethyst Resort Batticaloa: The resort features spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, beachfront access, and a range of recreational outdoor activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball.

• Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes: This resort offers luxurious villas and chalets, a swimming pool, spa facilities, and a range of activities, including nature walks and bird watching.

• Pulickattil Houseboats: For a unique and memorable experience, consider staying at Pulickattil Houseboats. These traditional houseboats feature comfortable bedrooms, dining areas, and open decks where guests can relax and enjoy the whole view of the lagoon.

• Hotel East Lagoon: The hotel features spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar, as well as facilities for indoor and outdoor activities such as table tennis, badminton, and cycling.

What to eat when visiting Batticaloa?

Things to do in Batticaloa list can not miss trying the cuisine of this place.

• Batticaloa Kool: A hearty stew with seafood, vegetables, and spices.

• Crab Curry: Delicious curry made with fresh crab and aromatic spices.

• String Hoppers: Steamed rice noodles served with coconut sambal and curries.

• Lagoon Shrimp Curry: Flavorful curry showcasing fresh lagoon shrimp.

• Milk Rice: Simple yet tasty rice cooked in coconut milk, often served with spicy accompaniments.

• Kottu Roti: Popular street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood.

• Wadai: Crispy deep-fried snacks available in various flavors like lentil and coconut.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Batticaloa offers travelers a wealth of experiences that are waiting to be explored. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in the local culture, this captivating city is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why wait? Start planning your trip by considering things to do in Batticaloa today and embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of Sri Lanka's most enchanting destinations.