Nilaveli - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Nilaveli

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Nilaveli, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Nilaveli and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Nilaveli, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Nilaveli for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Nilaveli

Nilaveli is a beautiful coastal town located on the north-eastern coast of Sri Lanka. It is known for its pristine beaches with crystal clear waters and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. The town also offers a glimpse of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage with a number of ancient temples and historical landmarks nearby. Additionally, it is a short drive away from the famous Pigeon Island National Park, which is home to a variety of marine life and coral reefs. Nilaveli is also a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of nature, making it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.

What to visit in Nilaveli

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Nilaveli, Sri Lanka: 1. Pigeon Island National Park: This is a marine national park that is known for its coral reefs and a variety of marine life, including turtles, sharks, and colorful fish. Visitors can go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the underwater world.
2. Nilaveli Beach: This is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for miles along the coastline. It's a great place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports such as jet skiing and banana boat rides.
3. Koneswaram Temple: This is an ancient Hindu temple located on a hill overlooking the ocean. It's a popular pilgrimage site and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
4. Trincomalee War Cemetery: This is a solemn memorial dedicated to the soldiers who died in World War II in Sri Lanka. It's a peaceful and well-maintained site that offers a glimpse into the country's history.
5. Marble Beach: This is a secluded beach that is lesser-known than Nilaveli Beach. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
6. Fort Frederick: This is an old Dutch fort that was built in the 17th century. It's located on a hill overlooking the harbor of Trincomalee and provides a great vantage point for beautiful views.
7. Thiriyaya Temple: This is a historic Buddhist temple that was built over 2500 years ago. It's a scenic place with beautiful carvings and sculptures that depict the stories of Lord Buddha.
These are some of the major attractions in Nilaveli, Sri Lanka, which offers a wonderful blend of nature, history, and culture to the visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Nilaveli.

When to go on holiday to Nilaveli

The best time to visit Nilaveli is between May and September when the weather is dry, and the sea is calm and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. During these months, the temperature is around 30°C, which is perfect for outdoor activities like sunbathing, hiking, and sightseeing. However, note that this is a peak tourist season, so it can be crowded, and the prices may rise. If you prefer quieter surroundings and don't mind occasional rain, you can visit Nilaveli during the shoulder season, which is from March to April and October to November.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Nilaveli

To get to Nilaveli in Sri Lanka, you can take a flight to Colombo International Airport, which is the main international airport in Sri Lanka. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Trincomalee Airport, which is the nearest airport to Nilaveli. Alternatively, you can take a train or a bus from Colombo to Trincomalee and then take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to Nilaveli. The journey time is approximately 6-7 hours by car or bus, and 5 hours by train. It is recommended to book a private car or a taxi for your convenience and safety.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Nilaveli, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Nilaveli

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Nilaveli in Sri Lanka along with a brief description: 1. Kottu roti - This is a popular street food in Sri Lanka that consists of chopped roti bread, vegetables, egg, and/or meat, all sautéed together with spices and sauces.
2. Hoppers (appam) - Hoppers are a type of pancake made from a batter of rice flour, coconut milk, and yeast. They are crispy on the edges and soft in the middle, with a slight sweetness and a hint of sourness.
3. Fish curry - Sri Lankan fish curry is a staple in many coastal communities, and Nilaveli is no exception. The curry is made with coconut milk and a blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder, and usually includes a variety of herbs and vegetables to add depth of flavor.
4. String hoppers - String hoppers, also known as idiyappam, are thin noodles made from rice flour and water. They are often served with curry and sambal (a spicy dipping sauce made with chili peppers, onions, and other seasonings).
5. Pol sambol - This is a side dish made from grated coconut, chili peppers, onions, and lime juice. It adds a refreshing, spicy kick to many Sri Lankan dishes.
6. Watalappan - Watalappan is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made from coconut milk, jaggery (a type of sweetener), eggs, and spices such as cardamom and cinnamon. It has a firm custard-like texture with a rich, nutty flavor.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Nilaveli an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Sri Lanka, Nilaveli can be considered relatively expensive for tourists. This is because it is known as a premium beach destination, with luxury hotels and resorts. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher than in other areas of the country. However, there are still a range of options available for budget-conscious travelers, such as homestays and guesthouses. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices to find the best deals for your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Nilaveli

Nilaveli is a popular destination in Sri Lanka for beach lovers and those looking for water sports and a fun-filled vacation. When choosing an accommodation for your trip to Nilaveli, it is best to look in the following areas: 1. Nilaveli Beach - This is the main beach of the area and has a good selection of hotels and resorts, offering stunning views of the sea.
2. Uppuveli Beach - This is another popular beach area with a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
3. Trincomalee - This bustling town is located a short distance from Nilaveli and is a great place to stay if you want to explore the area's culture and history.
4. Kuchchaveli - Located south of Nilaveli, this area is ideal for those looking for a quieter and more secluded beach experience.
Overall, Nilaveli beach and Uppuveli Beach are the most popular areas to find accommodation for a visit to Nilaveli.
You can check hotel prices at Nilaveli here:
Booking.com

Is Nilaveli a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Nilaveli is considered a relatively safe place for tourists in Sri Lanka. The town is located in the Eastern Province, away from the areas that were affected by the civil war that ended in 2009. However, like any tourist destination, it is important to always take safety precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash, avoiding isolated areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to check for any travel advisories issued by your country's government before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Nilaveli.

What type of travelers will enjoy Nilaveli the most?

Nilaveli is a beautiful destination located in the East coast of Sri Lanka, with pristine beaches and clear blue waters. It is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including couples, young people and families.
Couples will enjoy the serene environment, the romantic walks on the beach, and the charming traditional villages nearby. The stunning sunsets and the fantastic seafood cuisine will make for a memorable experience.
Young people looking for fun will love the water sports activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing, that Nilaveli offers. The nightlife in the area is not too lively but still provides opportunities to socialize.
Families will appreciate the safe environment, the calm waters for swimming, and the many attractions nearby, such as the Pigeon Island National Park, where they can observe a wide variety of marine life and enjoy a family picnic on the beach.
Overall, Nilaveli is a destination that caters to everyone.

How to get around Nilaveli

The most common transportation options for getting around Nilaveli, Sri Lanka are tuk-tuks (three-wheeled taxis), rented scooters or motorbikes, and bicycles. There are also public buses available, but they can be quite crowded and don't always run on time. It's also worth noting that the main attractions in Nilaveli (including the beach and Pigeon Island) are within walking distance for most visitors.

What to see around Nilaveli

Sure, here are some nice places you could visit in a day trip from Nilaveli: 1. Trincomalee: Just a short drive away from Nilaveli, this port city is famous for its beautiful beaches like Uppuveli and Marble Beach, as well as its ancient Koneswaram Temple.
2. Pigeon Island National Park: This beautiful national park is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful corals and tropical fish.
3. Kuchchaveli: Located about 30 km north of Nilaveli, Kuchchaveli is a quiet and peaceful beach town with stunning beaches and a rich marine ecosystem.
4. Dambulla Cave Temple: A bit further away from Nilaveli, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to ancient caves filled with stunning murals and Buddhist statues.
5. Sigiriya: Another popular UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya is home to a stunning fortress built on top of a massive rock, as well as beautiful water gardens and frescoes.
6. Anuradhapura: If you're interested in Sri Lanka's ancient history, this city is home to a wealth of archaeological sites and ruins, including temples and palaces.
7. Polonnaruwa: Another ancient city filled with impressive ruins and temples, Polonnaruwa is a great place to explore Sri Lanka's rich history.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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