Joanna James
A quaint little town on the east coastline of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee offers the vacation ambience with its beautiful beaches and many other points of interest. It is way quieter than the south of the country, which is all the more reason to add it to your bucket list.
A pristine stretch of beach that can be located near many hotels in Trincomalee, Nilaweli Beach boasts of white sands and calm, gentle surfs. It is situated about 13.6 kilometres north of Trincomalee that can be reached via Pulmoddai Road in approximately 20 minutes. At Nilaweli Beach, one can expect to explore above and beyond water with adrenaline-boosting water activities such as jet-skiing, banana boating, and snorkelling. Nilaweli Beach is one of the finest beaches in the country that is ideal for chilling for even one whole day.
With its name springing up from many flocks of endemic blue rock pigeons that nest in this location, Pigeon Island is a must-visit for anyone visiting the east coast of the country. It is one of the two Marine National Parks of Sri Lanka that is located about one-kilometre off the coast of Nilaweli Beach. The Pigeon Island National Park is spread over 471.4 hectares, out of which only 9 hectares cover the landmass, which consists of two islands. The rest is filled with exquisite coral beds that make it ideal snorkelling and diving destinations. This piece of underwater fantasy offers ethereal insights into the lives of marine species that draw their lifeblood out of the coral reefs found at this place.
If you happen to visit the Konesar Malai area of Trincomalee, do remember to make your way over to Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil, which offers a spectacular sight to its visitors. It is a large complex of interconnected Hindu shrines dedicated to Goddess Kali. The impressive façade of these shrines have stories embedded in their intricate carvings and sculptures. The colourful details not only offer a feast to your eyes, but it is also an exciting way of learning about the Hindu culture of the country. The visitors can have a unique experience here with the devotees breaking coconuts and praying for their needs in and around the shrine.
One of the rarely visited destinations in Trincomalee, Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary, can be considered as a birdwatcher's paradise. Many hotspots for observing flocks of birds that consist of both endemic and migratory species are sprawled over its lush landscape. Situated alongside Kokkilai Lagoon, this marvellous sanctuary provides a home for an abundance of bird species such as cormorants, herons, ducks, flamingos, pelicans, and even endangered species like black-necked storks. You can expect to arrange a visit to this paradise of birds when you stay at properties such as Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes.
Located atop a scenic hill that offers panoramic views of the entire region, Koneswaram Temple itself is a magnificent tribute to god Shiva, a deity belonging to Hindu Faith. One can make their way to Koneswaram Temple after visiting the deer at Fort Frederik premises. Dating back to 205 BC, Koneswaram Temple is associated with many myths and legends, many of which are detailed in its ornate monumental tower that can be seen right above the temple entrance. Make sure that you walk over to the viewpoint of the temple to be astounded by the incredible vistas of the bay.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
