East Coast
East Coast
East Coast
The beautiful East Coast of Sri Lanka is embracing a rejuvenation. Trincomalee’s sun-kissed beaches and exotic marine life; Arugam Bay’s world-renowned surfing beaches; Batticaloa’s tranquil lagoons and waterways; Wild elephants of Gal Oya National Park in Ampara; and a vibrant multi-ethnic cultural heritage, all contribute to this fascinating region that has re-emerged as a tourist destination. The ideal months to visit the East Coast are March to September, though visiting during the off-season can be rewarding as well. Arugam Bay’s surfing season runs from June to August.
Set out on a catamaran from the shores of Trinco or Pasikudha to explore the splendour of Sri Lanka’s eastern coastline. Visit stunning hideaway coves and snorkel off vibrant reefs.
See exquisite corals, small colourful fish, black-tip reef sharks, and endangered marine turtles while snorkelling at Pigeon Island, one of Sri Lanka’s two maritime national parks.
Gal Oya Reservoir is Sri Lanka’s most extensive artificial stretch of water. At sunset, elephants can be seen swimming between the islands. Enjoy the silence, only disturbed by bird songs, as you take a boat safari on Sri Lanka’s most extensive reservoir and picnic on Bird Island or one of the other tiny scattered islands.
The Veddas, Sri Lanka’s aboriginal people, live in small villages in complete isolation from the outside world. As you travel into the forest with them, you will learn about their ancient traditions and lifestyle.
Arugam Bay, a moon-shaped curl of soft sand, is home to a well-known point break, which many consider the best surf spot in the country. It’s a small town of a few hundred people, and everything clusters along a single road that runs parallel to the coast. The essence of the laid-back beach atmosphere lured surfers and sunseekers to Sri Lanka.
A birdwatcher’s paradise in Easter Yala is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka’s southeast region. It’s best reached via Arugam Bay, a laid-back seaside settlement on the island’s east coast.