Things for you to do

Koneswaram Temple
The Sacred Male

Hindu god Shiva. It is at the head of Konesar Malai (Swami Rock) on the dramatic Gokarna Bay, a seasonal home to blue whales.

Surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery on all sides, the colourful Koneswaram temple sits high above the bay, a classical-medieval complex in Trincomalee. The site is a religious pilgrim centre, and is one of the five “Pancha Ishwarams” (abodes of Shiva) that were built in coastal regions of Sri Lanka to honor the supreme god of Hinduism.

The Bhadra Kali Temple
The Sacred Feminine

Dedicated to the sacred feminine, Bhadra Kali is the most powerful and violent form of Shakti, the female energy of male deities. Combining many incarnations as her male counterparts she is venerated as a destroyer of evil forces in the first place, as the helpful curing Amman and the representation of the fertile and plentiful known as the delightful Mariamman among the Tamils population.

The Kali temple in the very centre of Trincomalee is dedicated to Bhadrakali in particular. A separate Kovil for Ganesha is attached. The Kovil is built in the typical stlye of Dravidian architecture of South India. The most eye-striking feature of the Dravidian style is the large gatetower known as Gopuram, which is adorned with plenty of sculptures. Colourful sculptures of deities and other celestial beings are found in the interior of the Kovil, too. Just as in the case of Kataragama shrines, it is a common practice of praying for needs by breaking coconuts in front of the temple entrance.

Access is allowed to foreigners, if they respect the local dress code. Pooja is celebrated three times a day, at 7.00am, 12.00 noon and 5.00 pm. Most locals venerate Kali n Tuesdays and Fridays in particular. The temple feast of this Kovil is usually the fortnight in the second half of March.

Pigeon Island National Park

This Marine National Park is situated 1 km off the coast of Nilaveli, a coastal town in Eastern Province, encompassing a total area of 471.429 hectares. The island’s name derives from the rock pigeon which has colonized it. The national park contains some of the best remaining coral reefs of Sri Lanka. Pigeon Island was designated as a sanctuary in 1963. In 2003 it was re-designated as a national park.

Many of the 100 species of corals and 300 coral reef fishes recorded around the Trincomalee area are found in the national park. Juvenile and adult blacktip reef shark are seen around the shallow coral areas. Hawksbill turtle, green turtle and olive ridley are the visiting sea turtles of the coral reef. The island is important breeding ground for the rock pigeon.

The most beautiful Beaches

The beaches in Trincomalee were some of the best on the island. Because the beaches along the east coast are known for their calmer, clearer waters when compared to those on the south. The waves here are non-existent, and the flat waters provide better conditions for snorkeling as opposed to surfing.

Trinco is home to two spectacular beaches, Uppuveli Beach and Nilaveli Beach. Nilaveli Beach lies north of Uppuveli Beach in Trincomalee. Nilaveli Beach is arguably one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. This long stretch of beach is lined with palm trees and there are few developments in the area. The sand is whiter and finer when compared to Uppuveli Beach and there’s little to no pollution. The water is also pristine, and you really feel like you’re on a tropical island. It’s quieter and more secluded than Uppuveli Beach, and the clear water makes it the best beach in Trincomalee.

Uppuveli is a long, sandy beach with clear waters and no waves. It attracts a bigger crowd than Nilaveli Beach as there is more going on in the area. It’s the more popular destination, offering a better vibe and festive atmosphere when compared to the relaxed feel of Nilaveli.

Golf in Trincomalee

Eagles Golf Links is blessed with warm to hot weather year round, assuring golfers of warm sunny days much of the year, with the exception of the North-East Monsoon from November to February, when afternoon showers are common.

The course overlooks the scenic Clappenberg Bay and Malay Cove, and is a 15-minute drive from the pristine and beautiful Marble Beach, reputedly one of the world’s best beaches.

Scenic and challenging, Eagles’ Golf Links is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, near Trincomalee Harbour. This 18-hole course offers nearly seven kilometers of challenging, enjoyable and unique rounds of golf for a par of 72, routed through picturesque, undulating Bermuda grass fairways and Tifdwarf greens, replete with magnificent trees. Views of sparkling waters, bays and coves enhance the experience, creating a stunning environment for an unforgettable game of golf.