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Batticaloa is a secret treasure on Sri Lanka’s east coast. Batticaloa is well-known for its immaculate beaches, fascinating history, and lively culture. It provides a distinctive and unusual tourist experience. With palm-lined beaches extending for miles, this seaside town’s unspoiled beauty will enthral you as you explore it. The town is also home to the beautiful Batticaloa Lagoon, a serene water ideal for birdwatching and boat cruises. History buffs will also love learning about the historic Batticaloa Fort, which was built during the Portuguese colonial era. With its kind and hospitable residents, mouthwatering food, and plenty of outdoor activities, are few things to do in Batticaloa leaving you with priceless memories.
Things To Do in Batticaloa In Sri Lanka
Discover your inner explorer by taking part in exhilarating things to do in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. The following are a few of these:
1. Explore The Batticaloa Fort
Photo: Anton Croos / Wikimedia Commons
Batticaloa Fort, first erected by the Portuguese in 1628 and later upgraded by the Dutch and British, is one of the region’s most notable historical sites. It is encircled by the Batticaloa Lagoon on three sides, affording spectacular views, especially around sunset. Take in expansive views of the town and lagoon as you stroll along the fort’s walls. Discover the antique cannons and colonial-era buildings among the fort’s ruins. Explore the interior’s little museum, which features objects from Batticaloa’s colonial past. Discovering the strategic importance of the fort in the maritime history of Sri Lanka is one of the things to do in Batticaloa.
Location: Puliyavanthivu Island, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: No Fee
2. Relax At Kallady Beach
Photo: Srisar / Wikimedia Commons
One of the area’s most attractive beaches is Kallady Beach, which is situated directly across the Kallady Bridge. It’s a great place to unwind, swim, and take in the soft sea breeze. See local fishermen bringing in their daily catch. Take a stroll along the shoreline in the morning or evening is one of the relaxing things to do in Batticaloa. Swim calmly in the warm waters. Pay tribute to the 2004 tsunami victims at the nearby Tsunami Memorial.
Location: Kallady, Sri Lanka
Timings: 24*7
3. Visit The Famous Kallady Bridge
Photo: Anton Croos / Wikimedia Commons
In addition to being a feat of architecture, Kallady Bridge is well-known for the “Singing Fish” mythology. The waters are said to produce enigmatic melodic noises at night, according to local mythology. Admiring the picturesque view of the lagoon while standing on the bridge is the most beautiful thing to do in Batticaloa. Locals say that a full moon night is the greatest time to hear the “Singing Fish,” so try to listen for them at night. Watch boats glide across the lagoon as the sun sets. More than merely a corridor for transit, Kallady Bridge is a meeting point of nature, history, and mythology. This location is a must-see while in Batticaloa, whether you’re trying to solve the riddle of the “Singing Fish,” taking in the beauty of the lagoon, or watching a peaceful sunset.
Distance: 2 km from the Batticaloa
4. Take A Boat Ride In Batticaloa Lagoon
Photo: Anton Croos / Wikimedia Commons
One of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka’s most serene and beautiful attractions is Batticaloa Lagoon. With its 56-kilometre length with mangroves, little islands, and fishing communities all around, this expansive body of water is a great place for a picturesque boat trip. The experience of a boat trip across the lagoon will never be forgotten, regardless of your preferences for adventure, wildlife observation, or a tranquil getaway. Traditional fishing gear, like bamboo traps and cast nets, is still used by local fishermen. Learning about the villagers’ way of life and attempting to fish alongside them is an explorable thing to do in Batticaloa.
Timings: Morning and Evening
5. Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Batticaloa is heavily influenced by Christianity. Visiting these churches is one of the religious things to do in Batticaloa, and the town’s colonial past is reflected in its churches. St. Mary’s Cathedral, the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese, is one of Batticaloa’s most notable structures. Portuguese colonial influence and later contributions from Dutch and British missionaries are reflected in the church’s 19th-century origins. The VOC Church, another name for the Dutch Reformed Church, is one of Batticaloa’s oldest churches. It is a representation of the European influence on Sri Lanka’s east coast, having been constructed during the Dutch colonial era (18th century). St. Sebastian’s Church, renowned for its remarkable architecture and communal significance, is another significant religious location in Batticaloa. Discover the rich religious and regional customs. The church’s architecture is influenced by classic Gothic design and has tall spires.
Location: Within Batticaloa town centre
6. Explore The Hindu Temples
Photo: Dr.S.Rajivraja / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring the town’s Tamil ancestry is reflected in the numerous beautiful Hindu temples, and is one of the divine things to do in Batticaloa. The Sri Mamangam Temple is among Batticaloa’s most important and esteemed Hindu temples. This temple, which is devoted to Lord Ganesha (Pillaiyar), draws thousands of worshippers, particularly during the Mamangam Festival. The Kokkadicholai Thaanthonreeswarar Temple is among the most respected temples dedicated to Shiva in eastern Sri Lanka. It is said to possess holy energy and is one of the Five Sacred Shiva Temples, or Pancha Ishwarams. The temple is described in old Tamil literature and has been a place of pilgrimage for ages. The Kali Kovil in Batticaloa is devoted to Goddess Kali, a fiery manifestation of Goddess Durga, who is renowned for both her destructive and protecting abilities.
Timings: 24*7
7. Explore Batticaloa Market
Photo: Dungodung / Wikimedia Commons
To experience some delicious local produce and gain insight into the daily life of the area, visit Batticaloa’s local market. The vibrant public market in Batticaloa is one of the greatest places to get a taste of the native way of life. The vibrant Batticaloa Market, where sellers sell everything from spices, handcrafted crafts, and traditional Tamil delicacies to fresh seafood and tropical fruits, provides a window into the everyday lives of the locals and is a joyful thing to do in Batticaloa. Batticaloa Market is a sensory experience full of colours, scents, and warm interactions, whether you’re interested in local life, food, or photography.
Best Time To Visit: Morning and Evening
8. Visit Pasikudah Beach
Photo: Imaadwhd / Wikimedia Commons
Pasikudah Beach, located north of Batticaloa, is well-known for its luxurious resorts and crystal-clear, shallow waters. Additionally, Pasikudah Beach is the perfect location if you’re searching for a tranquil retreat with gentle waves, soft golden sand, and crystal-clear waters. One of the greatest beaches in Sri Lanka for swimming, snorkelling, and leisure is Pasikudah, which is well-known for its shallow reef lagoon. Pasikudah is a great place to swim because the water is quiet, warm, and shallow for a considerable distance. Soaking yourself in this beach is one of the best things to do in Batticaloa. Even children and non-swimmers can safely enjoy the ocean because there are no abrupt depth changes or large waves.
Best Time To Visit: Morning and Late Evening
9. Explore The Local Villages
Photo: Anton Croos / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting the nearby villages and learning about the traditional handicrafts created by talented craftspeople is one of the greatest ways to get a taste of Batticaloa’s genuine culture and customs. These villages offer a singular window into the rural way of life, traditional handicrafts, and sustainable means of subsistence of the Tamil and Muslim populations in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. Using traditional methods, the local artists produce stunning handcrafted goods, ranging from wood carvings and ceramics to handwoven mats and baskets. During a tour of these communities, you can interact with the artisans, discover their techniques, and even attempt to create some crafts yourself! It is the most enjoyable thing to do in Batticaloa.
Distance: 2 Km away
10. Try Authentic Batticaloa Cuisine
Photo: AntanO / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tamil and Sri Lankan customs have affected the distinctive flavours of Batticaloa’s cuisine. You can try various food items like Odiyal Kool, a traditional palmyra root-based shellfish soup, or the famous delectable Batticaloa Prawn Curry – this curry is made with fresh prawns and coconut milk. You can also try the Kottu Roti which is a well-known street food dish from Sri Lanka that is made of chopped roti, meat, eggs, and veggies. If you feel like getting a drink, you can always try the Palmyra Toddy, a fermented palmyra palm sap-based indigenous alcoholic beverage.
Location: In and around Batticaloa
Batticaloa is a hidden gem located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. Known for its pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. As you explore this coastal town, you will be captivated by its untouched beauty, with palm-fringed beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. Additionally, history enthusiasts will be delighted to discover the ancient Batticaloa Fort, which dates back to the Portuguese colonial era. With its warm and welcoming locals, delicious cuisine, and a plethora of outdoor activities, these things to do in Batticaloa promise to leave you with unforgettable memories. Every type of visitor, whether they are seeking adventure, leisure, or a rich cultural experience can make their journey memorable with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Astronomyinertia / Wikimedia Commons
