Main Attractions along Sri Lanka's East Coast – Sun-Kissed Lands to Explore

Steeped in history, Trincomalee or "Trinco" is home to one of the world's most beautiful natural harbours. Nothing but fabulous white sand beaches greet you there, while the Nilaveli and Uppuveli beaches are a must visit for sky blue oceans and expansive sun-bleached stretches of white sand. In Trincomalee you must visit the ancient Fort Fredrick; built by the Portuguese, fortified by the Dutch and finally relinquished by the British, part of this coastal fort is open to the public while the rest is an army garrison. There are the hot springs of Kanniya to visit, and the foreboding Kali Kovil to explore. From Nilaveli, head over to Pigeon Island for snorkelling and swimming fun, while whale and dolphin watching expeditions off Trincomalee are always rewarding. While a drive to Trinco takes around 6 to 7 hours from the commercial capital Colombo, you can get there via a domestic air taxi service offered by the likes of Cinnamon Air, in less than an hour!

The Batticaloa Light House is the areas iconic attraction, built in 1918; the 28 metre high structure offers a marvellous view of the surrounding region. The famous lagoons of Batticaloa are a must visit, full of rustic beauty these areas are made up of mangrove forests marshy lands and exotic creatures. The lagoons are connected by a series of bridges and are a treat to explore. As you drive along the roads leading onto the beaches of Kalkudah and Passikudah, don't forget the cameras, for the stretches of white sand, are truly awesome. Batticaloa too is easily accessible via air taxi, which can be arranged from the airport.

Of all things to do in Sri Lanka surfing in Arugam Bay is a top attraction. Listed as one of the world's best surf destinations, the area is ideal for both professionals and beginners. You can easily rent out a board and other equipment at surf shops in the area, while surf schools offer novices a chance to get acquainted with the waves. And if you are a non-surfer, then Arugam Bay is the perfect elixir for a laid-back holiday. Home to hidden coves and beaches framed by swaying palms, the calm, relaxed ambience of the place is ideal to enjoy the stunning sunsets of Arugam Bay.

Wildlife enthusiasts enjoying the beauty of Arugam Bay, can head over to Kumana National Park in less than an hour. Ideal to plan a wildlife safari to, the park, although not as popular as Yala, is home to a fair share of elephants, other mammals and a wide variety of birds; the birds are the main attraction of Kumana, often explored by avid birders from around the world.

This beautiful precinct is located between the east coast and hill country of Sri Lanka. A must for all culture buffs, getting to this area from the east coast is a pleasant drive, if you book a domestic air taxi tour to Passikudah from the International Airport. Alternatively, air taxis offer routes to the hill capital as well, should you decide to head over to Monaragala via the central highlands of the island. Look forward to exploring ancient temples and ruins cocooned within lush forests, as well as, Buddhist painting and other relics dating back to the 7th century.