Trincomalee travel – Must-Visit Places in Sri Lanka

A large complex of interconnected Hindu Shrines, Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil, is a must-visit if you're ever in the Konesar Malai area of Trincomalee. It is indeed a splendid sight that enthralls its visitors with such intricate details adorning its colourful façade. The temple itself is an offering to the Hindu goddess Kali, who is frequently associated with god Shiva of the same faith. The decorative walls of this shrine are engraved with ornate carvings and sculptures that are not only an absolute feast to one's eyes but also a fascinating way to be exposed to the Hindu cultural aspects of this country. The inner chamber is as colourful as its outward appearance with statues of horses and lions erected over blue pedestals in rearing positions.

You can head over to Koneswaram after pausing a bit at the premises of Fort Frederik, lying on the way to this temple. The sea surrounds the Koneswaram from three sides. Towering over the sea with a history of over three millenniums, it is a captivating monument that was once a part of a sprawling temple city. You will be greeted with scenic vistas of the entire region when you're atop this hill that acts as a pedestal to this place of worship. The Koneswaram Temple is associated with many legends, most of which are beautifully carved in and around the temple entrance. The temple possesses a small courtyard that narrows behind its back, where you can capture the iconic picture of the bay of Trincomalee. Facing the temple from the ocean is a magnificent statue of King Ravana, who stands in worship of a relic inside the temple.

A less famous destination than the famous pigeon island or the Koneswaram in Trincomalee, the Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary can be defined as an ultimate bird-lovers' paradise. Located within a driving distance from many luxury hotels in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, one can observe vibrant and colourful birds that are either endemic or have migrated to the country. Nestled next to the Kokkilai Lagoon, this sanctuary provides a home for a mélange of bird species, including cormorants, flamingos, pelicans, herons, and many endangered species such as the black-necked storks. One can look forward to arranging a bird-watching expedition during their stays in Trincomalee at properties such as Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes.

An immaculate strip of uninterrupted beaches that are ideal for sunbathing for a relaxing few hours, Nilaweli Beach, offers the best of beach holidays in the country with its smooth white sand and elegant surfs that gently roll to their sides. One can easily access this beach via Pulmoddai Road in about 20 minutes when travelling from Trincomalee. It is the perfect beach that opens up a whole world of adventure by offering mesmerising opportunities of exploring above and beyond water. Trying your hand at adrenaline-boosting jet-ski rides or laughter-inducing banana boat rides is guaranteed to make you want to return to this place each year.

One of the marine national parks of Sri Lanka, Pigeon Island, is a must-explore site for nature lovers that hope to experience the exquisite beauty of this country. Located about one kilometre away from the coast of Nilaweli beach, it is a breathtaking snorkelling site that offers an out-of-this-world experience for those who are brave enough to conquer these waters. The name of this place is a constant reminder of the hundreds of endemic blue rock pigeons that inhabit the rock formations of this island. Although it may look like one great patch of land from the shore, Pigeon Island consists of two islands, with one that is larger than the other.