Trincomalee & Nilaveli
An east coast port town with one of the world's great natural harbours, calm beaches at Nilaveli and Uppuveli, Pigeon Island snorkelling and the historic Koneswaram Temple.
Get a Quote for Trincomalee & NilaveliAbout Trincomalee & Nilaveli
Trincomalee is on the north-east coast and has one of the finest natural harbours in the world. The nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli have soft sand and clear water in the right season. Boats go from Nilaveli to Pigeon Island National Park, a marine park known for coral and reef fish, and for snorkelling. In town, the Koneswaram Temple sits on a rocky headland above the sea, and Fort Frederick and the Kanniya hot wells are close by. The east coast has its best weather when the south and west coasts are rainy.
Highlights
- ✅ Nilaveli and Uppuveli beaches
- ✅ Snorkelling at Pigeon Island National Park
- ✅ Koneswaram Temple
- ✅ Fort Frederick
- ✅ Kanniya hot wells
Travel Tips
- Visit in the summer months, as the sea can be rough in the monsoon season
- Book boat trips with licensed operators
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
- Combine with Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa on an east and north route
More places to visit
Sinharaja Rain Forest
Sri Lanka's last large tract of primary lowland rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk with a local guide to spot endemic birds, colourful frogs, butterflies and giant trees in a cool, shaded forest.
Pilgrimage & HikingAdam's Peak (Sri Pada)
A 2,243 m sacred mountain revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians. Climb by night to reach the summit for sunrise and the famous triangular shadow of the peak.
WildlifeUdawalawe National Park
One of the most reliable places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants. Open grassland around a large reservoir makes jeep safaris easy and sightings frequent.