10 Places To Visit In Trincomalee: Beaches, Temples & More

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Trincomalee with amazing views.

Trincomalee, located on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, is a port city. It is also known by the name Gokanna or Gokarna. It is situated on a peninsula in Trincomalee Bay, which is popularly known as Koddiyar Bay, which is one of the world’s finest natural harbours. There are many places to visit in Trincomalee to explore the charming town with various historical forts, ancient temples, huge statues, historic shrines, beautiful beaches and many more, which is a paradise for travellers. This is the best place to unravel various mysteries of the Marines’ life and explore the culture.

10 Places To Visit In Trincomalee

Here are a few places to visit in Trincomalee, Sri lanka to plan an amazing trip for creating some unforgettable memories.

1. Koneswaram Temple

The entrance area of the Koneswaram Temple, one of the places to visit in Trincomalee.

Photo: Shamli071 / Wikimedia Commons

Koneswaram Temple is one of the most famous temples in Trincomalee. This temple is one of the most famous tourist attractions that is located high above the bay. This temple also offers beautiful scenery on all sides. This is a Hindu religious piling image that is known as the Kailash of the south. The Hindu temple has been built to worship Lord Shiva and is also one of the Pancha Ishwarams. The temple was constructed in 400 BC, which is one of the most ancient combinations of architecture and ornamentation. The temple was rebuilt by the year 1963.

Location: Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

2. Pigeon Island National Park

A beautiful view of the pigeon rocks one of the best places to visit in Trincomalee.

Photo: AntanO / Wikimedia Commons

Pigeon Island National Park is one of the most famous marine parks in Trincomalee. This park was classified as a sanctuary till the 1960s but changed into a national park in 2003. This park is named after the rock pigeons that used it as a breeding island. This island also has 100 varieties of coral and fish species. It is also an amazing place for snorkeling. The waters around this island are also a home to the green turtles, the blacktip reef shark, many more. This Island Park is one of the best places to explore the rich underwater life and the flock of pigeons.

Location: Pigeon Island, Sri Lanka

3. Fort Frederick

The entrance area of Fort Frederick, one of the best places to visit in Trincomalee.

Photo: AntanO / Wikimedia Commons

Fort Frederick is a famous place in Trincomalee. It is an old Portuguese fort that is now operated by the Sri Lankan army. The display is also open to visitors and provides a beautiful view of Trincomalee’s harbour and the surrounding beautiful landscape, which is also a popular picnic spot. There are also a few historical buildings, like the Buddhist temple in the ground area of the fort. Named after Frederick, who was the Duke of York and the commander in chief of the British army during the time of its construction. The architecture of this fort is a blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British design.

Location: H6GV+W86, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

4. Trincomalee Beach

An amazing view of the clear waters at the beach, one of the places to visit in Trincomalee.

Photo: C. Lalinshan / Wikimedia Commons

Trincomalee Beach is one of the most famous and most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka that is located in Trincomalee Town. This beach is known for its clean and clear waters with hygienic surroundings and beautiful views that are ideal for taking amazing pictures. There are many fishermen working at this beach, which is a great opportunity for the visitors to explore and understand the work of the fishermen. There are also various food outlets and drinks available near the beach. There are various activities to do on this beach, like taking a tour around the beach, especially during sunset.

Location: 410/1, Nugasewana Mawatha,5th Mile Post, Kandy Rd, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

5. Sri Bhadrakali Amman Temple

The architecture of the Amman temple, one of the places to visit in Trincomalee.

Photo: நடுநாடன் / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Sri Bhadrakali Amman Temple, which was also known as the PathiraKali Amman Temple, is a famous Hindu temple that is dedicated to the goddess Kali Amman and is located in the town of Trincomalee. This temple is believed to have been built during the rule of Chola kings from the 11th century. This temple is built in the architectural style of the classical Dravidian style with beautiful interior designs and sculptures. This temple also holds an annual festival called the Mahotsavam, which lasts for 10 days and is celebrated grandly, with the festival also connecting to the Koneswaram temple.

Location: 24 New Moor St, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

6. Uppuveli Beach

A complete view of the coastline of Uppuveli Beach offers picture-perfect views.

Photo: Honeplus / Wikimedia Commons

Uppuveli Beach located in Trincomalee is one of the most popular beaches. This beach is known for its picture-perfect views that are a stretch of coastline known for its sandy shores, clear water and relaxing atmosphere. This beach has its own unique charm with soft golden sands stretching over an area of 7 km. There are various water activities available at this beach. This beach is a very serene area with less crowd and a calm atmosphere, which is ideal to sit down and relax amidst the natural beauty. Many travellers visit this beach only to slow down and savour the pleasures of coastal living.

Location: Uppuveli Beach, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

7. Maritime And Naval History Museum

A view of the entire building of the History Museum in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka.

Photo: L Manju / Wikimedia Commons

The Maritime and Naval History Museum is located near Fort Frederick. This version is also the official residence of the Dutch naval commissioner, which has been renovated and converted into a history museum. The ground floor of this museum has exhibitions of Sri Lanka’s naval history that date back to Marco Polo’s visit. The first floor of the museum displays various interesting information regarding the local flora and fauna that also includes Pigeon Island. The entire museum, along with the exhibit, is a fine showcase area built in colonial architecture.

Location: Lavender Ln, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

8. Velgam Vehera Buddhist Temple

The ancient remnants of the Velgam Vehera Buddhist temple, a famous attraction in Trincomalee.

Photo: Singhalawap / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Velgam Vehera Buddhist Temple is one of the most famous attractions in Trincomalee, a very ancient temple dating back to the third century BCE that represents the significant history and culture of the spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. This Buddhist temple is known for its ancient ruins and historical values that have a connection to Buddhist teachings. This place also has a large stupa, remnants of a monastery and various other details. This temple is the best place to learn about the history of Buddhism and also to enjoy this serene surroundings by exploring the ancient structures.

Location: Vilgam Vihara Rd, Sri Lanka

9. Nilaveli Beach

A view of the relaxing atmosphere of the Nilaveli Beach, located in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka.

Photo: Anton 17 / Wikimedia Commons

Nilaveli Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Sri Lanka, located in Trincomalee. This place is known for its breathtaking views of the serene and clear waters with powdery white sands that stretch across an area of 4 km. This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches, ideal for sunbathing, walking, relaxing and exploring various other water activities. This beach has a diverse variety of marine species like sea turtles, colourful fish, and coral formations. This makes it ideal for various activities like snorkeling and diving to explore the beautiful biodiversity of the underwater world.

Location: Nilaveli Beach, Sri Lanka

10. British War Cemetery

A view of the graveyard at the British War Cemetery, one of the six Commonwealth wars.

Photo: Anton 17 / Wikimedia Commons

The British war cemetery is one of the six Commonwealth war cemeteries across Sri Lanka, located in Trincomalee. This British war cemetery has gravestones of more than 300 soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War 2. This cemetery also has the graves of Dutch, French, Italian and other allied forces along with the soldiers of the British Empire. This is a very calm place that is surrounded by green grass and trees all around. It is a must-visit place to understand the importance and the effects of war and to pay respects.

Location: 300 Nilaveli Rd, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

With a variety of places to explore, from ancient buildings and historical remnants to picture-perfect beaches, there are many places to visit in Trincomalee, which are a blend of various types of activities that are perfect for travelling. There are also many adventure activities like water sports in the weakness and also the visitors can sit and relax. Plan a trip with TripXL to create some amazing memories.

Cover Photo: Anthony Lim / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Trincomalee is between the months of May to October, which is ideal for exploring all the outdoor activities.
There are many places to visit in Trincomalee, like the Koneswaram Temple, Pigeon Island National Park, Fort Frederick, Uppuveli Beach and many more.
There are many beaches to explore in Trincomalee, like Nilaveli Beach, Trincomalee Beach, Uppuveli Beach, Marble Beach and many more.
Some of the famous temples to visit in Trincomalee are Koneswaram Temple, Shri Bhadrakali Amman Temple, Velgam Vehera Buddhist Temple and many more.
There are many adventure activities to try in Trincomalee, like scuba diving, snorkelling, swimming, whale watching and many more.

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