Things to Do in Pasikuda 2023 - a delightful seaside getaway in the laidback beach town

The pristine white sandy crescent that has become synonymous with the town itself, Pasikuda Bay is what single-handedly put the beach town on the map for most tourists. Clearly, it is a must-visit for anyone vacationing in the charming town of Pasikuda, without which, your Pasikuda experience would be incomplete. Relax and unwind in the shade of swaying palm trees, savouring tropical cocktails and enjoying the warmth of the sun until the peaceful sunset signals the end of a satisfying day.

A 45-minute drive away from the town of Pasikuda in the vicinity of the Kallady Bridge, Batticaloa awaits a truly authentic experience — the bustling Kallady Bridge Market. Come the dawn of every Saturday, the old-world marketplace gets lively with clamouring vendors and buzzing shoppers, browsing through the slew of stalls bursting with food items, household products and other gubbins. While the locals come to purchase the week's household essentials, the tourists are sure to gain a glimpse into the local way of life, and could also pick up a few authentic Sri Lankan souvenirs, including unique clothes, wooden carvings, paintings, and traditional instrumentals.

Shopping at the Kallady Bridge Market isn't the only thing the town of Batticaloa has in store for you. On the other side of the town lies the historically, culturally and architecturally significant Batticaloa Dutch Fort. Dating back to 1628, the fort was first built by the Portuguese. It was only after a decade later the Dutch captured the fort from the Portuguese. Today, the fort stands in all its glory, seeing tourists in droves every day, who come to admire the fabulous Colonial architectural magnificence.

The palm-fringed beaches around Pasikuda are something that all tourists to the town look forward to, but, without question, the district's lagoons are just as fantastic. Spanning a whopping 11,500 hectares and stretching across 56 kilometres is the incredible Batticaloa Lagoon — the largest among the three lagoons around Pasikuda and certainly the most beautiful as well.

Set about an hour away from Pasikuda, Kokkadicholai Thaanthonreeswarar Temple is one of the oldest and most important Hindu temples — or kovils, as they are known locally — in Sri Lanka. The vibrant facade adorned with remarkable sculptures is arguably the biggest attraction of the kovil. Feast your eyes on the striking age-old temple and retreat to one of the finest Pasikuda beach hotels the likes of The Calm Resort & Spa.