Discovering Trincomalee: A Hidden Jewel on Sri Lanka's East Coast

How To Get There

These are the best and easiest ways to get to Trincomalee from Sri Lanka's capital, Colombo.

🚌 Bus

Intercity buses and private coaches operate between Colombo and Trincomalee. The journey takes around 6-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

We recommend choosing the Superline Travels or Avro Travels private, luxury bus. Buses are AC, comfortable, and travel through the night.

You can also take the local Bus (No.49) from Colombo Fort Station.

🚆Train

Sri Lanka's train network offers a scenic and affordable way to reach Trincomalee. Trains run from Colombo Fort Station to Trincomalee, taking approximately 8-10 hours. The journey offers picturesque views of the countryside and coastline.

There is usually a day train and a night train. 

🚘 Car

Renting a car or hiring a private taxi from Colombo is another option. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, offering flexibility and the opportunity to stop at various attractions along the way.

It's probably the most expensive option, although the most comfortable, flexible, and relaxing.

Places to visit in Trincomalee

Here are some must-visit places to discover in Trincomalee. However, feel free to explore and find some other hidden gems.

Thirukoneswaram Kovil

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Perched atop Swami Rock, this ancient Hindu temple offers stunning views of the ocean and is steeped in history and mythology. Remember to dress appropriately.

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Fort Frederick

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Probably one of the most beautiful forts I've seen in Sri Lanka. It's big, with stunning view points of the harbour and Trinco town. The best part - there are many deer inside the Fort.

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Pigeon Island

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A short boat ride from Nilaveli Beach, this marine national park is renowned for its coral reefs and diverse marine life. It's a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Tickets cost around RS 26,000 for one person including the boat ride and entrance to the park.

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Trincomalee War Cemetery

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A beautifully maintained war cemetery honoring Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. It's a peaceful place to take in a short stroll.

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Velgam Vehera Buddhist Temple | වෙල්ගම් වෙහෙර

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An ancient Buddhist temple surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere

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Kanniya Hot Water Springs

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A series of natural hot springs believed to have therapeutic properties, perfect for a relaxing soak, located about 20 minutes from Trincomalee.

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Best Beaches in Trincomalee

Here are some of the best beaches we discovered in Trincomalee.

Three of these beaches are hidden gems (Regina Beach, Deadman's Cove, and Coral Beach), and we were the only two people. It felt like we had our private beach.

Naturally, getting to these three beaches was difficult because it was dirt tracks and GPS didn't help much. But if you find them, you won't regret it.

Nilaveli Beach

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Nilaveli Beach is renowned for its stunning white sands and clear blue waters, making it a haven for sunbathers and swimmers. The proximity to Pigeon Island, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, makes it a top choice for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

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Marble Beach

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Located on the East Coast, Marble Beach is a true, relatively untouched paradise. Shut out for years because of the Civil War, Marble Beach gives you sandy, golden beaches with turquoise water. There are times when the sea is calm and appears to be like the surface of marble - hence, 'Marble Beach'.

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Coral Beach

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A hidden gem. It's a white sand beach, lined with a few trees and a HUGE natural pool formed by a reef. It's got a few corals and a bit of fish, and is a beautiful secluded place.

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Trincomalee Beach

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The main beach in Trincomalee, offering a lively atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and a variety of water activities

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Uppuveli Beach

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Uppuveli Beach is famous for its long shoreline, where you can stroll along the sandy expanse and enjoy a variety of water sports, including scuba diving. The old Dutch Fort nearby adds historical significance to this picturesque destination.

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Regina Beach

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A tranquil beach known for its clear waters and scenic views, offering a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat.

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Deadman's Cove

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A hidden gem with rugged beauty and crystal-clear waters, ideal for adventurous visitors seeking a more secluded beach experience

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Things to do in Trincomalee

🤿 Snorkeling & Diving

Explore the vibrant underwater world at Pigeon Island National Park or around Swami Rock, home to colorful corals and diverse marine species.

🐋 Whale Watching

Trincomalee is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot blue whales and dolphins. Join a boat tour for a chance to see these majestic creatures.

Best season to see whales and dolphins is between March to August.

Places to Eat in Trincomalee

Here are some of the spots that we recommend you try out, in Trincomalee.

Fernando's Bar

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Located on Uppuveli Beach, this laid-back beachfront bar and restaurant offers a variety of local and international dishes, along with refreshing cocktails.

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TRINCORINI

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A popular spot offering a blend of local and international cuisine with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Very affordable and has great staff. We came here all the time for breakfast.

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Elegant Green Seafood & Italian Beach Restaurant

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Known for its delicious seafood and Italian dishes, this beachfront restaurant provides a scenic dining experience. PS: Try the string hopper kottu. It's great!

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Memo's cafe/Restaurant

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A charming cafe serving a variety of dishes, from Sri Lankan favorites to Western comfort food, in a relaxed setting.

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ISSO - Prawn Crazy

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Specializing in shrimp dishes, this restaurant offers a unique culinary experience with fresh and flavorful options. A bit more pricier, it's a great spot for a date night.

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Where to Stay in Trincomalee

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon

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A beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms, a large pool, and easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.

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Havana Club Resort

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A simple beach front, budget accomodation with lovely staff.

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Nilaveli Beach Resort

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Nilaveli Beach Resort is a tranquil beachfront retreat offering comfortable accommodations, direct access to the pristine sands of Nilaveli Beach, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

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Pigeon Island Beach Resort

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Located near Nilaveli Beach, this resort offers cozy rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

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Cool Banyan Cabana

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Cool Banyan Cabanas in Trincomalee offers rustic, accommodations providing a peaceful and retreat just a short distance from the beach. Very nice staff as well.

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There you have it! The ultimate guide to Trincomalee, Sri Lanka.

Beyond the places, beaches, and restaurants we've highlighted, Trincomalee is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're staying for a few days or longer, this coastal paradise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. 

We recommend staying around 3-4 days in Trincomalee.

You can also explore nearby attractions such as Pigeon Island, Kuchchaveli, and Passikudah, all just a short drive away from Trincomalee.

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