Joanna James
Renowned for providing many an opportunity for rest, rejuvenation, and exploration, the eastern shores of Sri Lanka are a different experience altogether. The town of Pasikuda is no different!
Time spent within the heavenly setting of Pasikuda Bay will fill you with plenty of inspiration to comb more of Sri Lanka's east coast as these waters hold an abundance of wonder. Covering 2km and featuring plenty of space to unwind and simply let go, Pasikuda Bay is made complete with sandy beaches, patches of greenery, and shallow water to wade and make merry in. The shallow nature of the area means that vacationers can easily move into the ocean while inspecting coral reefs and an incredible collection of marine life that live in its waters.
Beginning from Eravur in the Batticaloa District and extending towards Kalmunai in the Ampara District is the 56km glittering jewel of Sri Lanka's eastern province; the Batticaloa Lagoon. Known as the largest of its kind in all of Batticaloa, the Lagoon is a treasure-trove overflowing with varying species of flora and fauna. Essentially, bird lovers will find the Batticaloa Lagoon a true spectacle given that it is home to a dazzling array of endemic, migratory, and resident species of birds to delight in.
Rivaling Mirissa in the southern province is the charming town of Trincomalee or 'Trinco' for short with respect to enjoying some whale watching. With Trinco home to a natural deep-water harbour, holidaymakers can expect an unforgettable whale watching experience with the opportunity to capture scenes of the largest animal on earth, the blue whale made possible. The period of Mach to August is the best time to visit Trincomalee as this is when the oceans are calmer and conducive for such viewing. Further, species ranging from the sperm whale and the playful spinner dolphin can be witnessed in their natural habitats.
Venture out and beyond Pasikuda and to the glorious environs of Polonnaruwa; an archaeologically rich city that once witnessed the rise and fall of kings. As part of a day tour, if based at Pasikuda hotels such as, for example, Amaya Beach, one may go back in time and recall a golden age in Sri Lanka with numerous examples evidencing such a thought. For starters, consider calling by the ruins of the palace of King Parakramabahu I where scenes of a magnificent structure and a once-thriving seat of authority can be discovered. Not to be outdone in terms of history and culture is the pristine Gal Vihara which possesses four enormous statues of the Buddha which have been carved into granite stone that date back to the 12th century.
The Sri Lankan wilds hold a plethora of landscapes and colourful species that will make for quite the excursion indeed should you be yearning for a different twist to your holiday. A designated national park since 1997, Minneriya is well known for the 'elephant gathering' which is a remarkable phenomenon that occurs every year with over 300 elephants in participation. Moreover, the avid bird watcher in you will soon realize that Minneriya National Park is an adventure worth being a part of as species such as the Sri Lanka Gray Hornbill and Jungle Fowl can be spotted.
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.
