Trincomalee - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Trincomalee

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Trincomalee, 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 Trincomalee 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 Trincomalee, 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 Trincomalee for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a port city located on the east coast of Sri Lanka. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times and played a significant role in Sri Lanka's colonial past. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, temples, and natural harbor, which is one of the largest in the world. Trincomalee is also a popular destination for whale watching, snorkeling, and other water-based activities. The city's rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and friendly people make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Sri Lanka.

What to visit in Trincomalee

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka along with a brief description of each: 1. Koneswaram Temple: This is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located on a cliff overlooking the sea. It is a popular pilgrimage site and offers stunning views of the ocean.
2. Pigeon Island National Park: This is a beautiful coral island located about 1 km off the coast of Nilaveli. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving as it houses a variety of marine life.
3. Marble Beach: This is a picturesque and secluded beach known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand. It's an ideal spot to relax, swim and sunbathe.
4. Trincomalee War Cemetery: This is a memorial cemetery that commemorates the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II. It is a serene and peaceful place to pay respect to those who served our nation.
5. Fort Fredrick: This is an old fort built in the 17th century by the Portuguese and later captured by the Dutch. It offers beautiful views of the city and the ocean.
6. Hot Wells: These are natural hot springs located near the Kinniya Bridge. The water is believed to have medicinal properties and many locals come here to take a dip in the hot waters.
7. Nilaveli Beach: This is a beautiful and long stretch of white sandy beach with clear water. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Hope this helps!
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 Trincomalee.

When to go on holiday to Trincomalee

The best time to visit Trincomalee in Sri Lanka is from May to October, during the dry season. This is the best time for diving and snorkeling, as the waters are clear and calm. However, please note that Trincomalee is a popular tourist destination during this time, so it can be crowded and prices may be higher. The period of December to March is also a good time to visit, as the weather is still pleasant with a lower chance of rain.

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

How to get to Trincomalee

There are several ways to get to Trincomalee in Sri Lanka. 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Trincomalee is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Trincomalee Airport or take a taxi or private car to Trincomalee.
2. By Train: Trincomalee has a train station that connects it to other major cities in Sri Lanka. The train ride from Colombo to Trincomalee takes around 6 hours and offers breathtaking views of the countryside.
3. By Bus: There are regular buses that run from Colombo and other major cities to Trincomalee. The journey can take around 7-8 hours depending on traffic.
4. Private Car/Taxi: You can also hire a private car or taxi from Colombo or other major cities to reach Trincomalee. This is a more comfortable and convenient way to travel, but can be more expensive than other options.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Trincomalee, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a city located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches and unique cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods of Trincomalee: 1. Kottu Roti: A popular Sri Lankan dish made with shredded roti (flatbread), vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood, cooked on a flat grill with spices.
2. Thosai: A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, served with curries or chutneys.
3. Fish Curry: Trincomalee is known for its fresh seafood, and the fish curry is a must-try. Made with a variety of fish and a rich blend of spices, this dish is typically served with rice or bread.
4. Biryani: A flavorful rice dish with origins in the Indian subcontinent, biryani is popular in Sri Lanka and especially in Trincomalee. Made with spiced rice, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood, it is often served with raita (yogurt sauce).
5. Pol Sambol: A condiment made from grated coconut, chili peppers, and spices, often eaten with bread or rice.
6. Wadai: A fried snack made with lentil or chickpea flour and spices, often served with coconut chutney.
7. String Hoppers: A noodle-like dish made from rice flour and shaped into small circles, often served with coconut milk and curry.
8. Pittu: A steamed rice and coconut dish that is often served for breakfast, accompanied by curry or sweetened with jaggery.
9. Curd and Honey: A simple yet delicious dish of yogurt (curd) and honey or treacle. The honey is often sourced locally from bees in the nearby forests.
10. Wood apple juice: A refreshing drink made from the fruit of the wood apple tree, which is native to Sri Lanka. The juice is sweet and sour and often served chilled.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Trincomalee an expensive destination for tourists?

Trincomalee can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists in Sri Lanka. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation can vary depending on the season and location. Generally, tourist spots tend to be pricier, and if you're planning on exploring the more remote areas, you can expect lower prices. Keep in mind that prices may also vary depending on your preferences and budget. It's always a good idea to do some research beforehand and compare prices to find the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a port city located in the northeast of Sri Lanka on the Bay of Bengal. Some of the popular areas to stay in Trincomalee are: 1. Uppuveli: It is a beautiful beach town located about 6 km from Trincomalee. Uppuveli is known for its crystal clear waters and perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
2. Nilaveli: It is another popular beach town located about 14 km from Trincomalee. Nilaveli is known for its coral reefs and perfect for diving and snorkeling.
3. Trincomalee city center: If you want to stay closer to the city center, you can find some good hotels and guesthouses here. The city center is home to many historical temples, museums, and markets.
4. Kanniya Hot Springs: It is a popular tourist attraction located about 10 km from Trincomalee. There are a few guesthouses and hotels here that offer easy access to the hot springs.
Overall, the best areas to stay in Trincomalee depend on your preference and interests. If you prefer to be close to the beach, Uppuveli and Nilaveli are great options. If you are interested in history and culture, the city center is a good choice.
You can check hotel prices at Trincomalee here:
Booking.com

Is Trincomalee a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Trincomalee is considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables safe, and follow the local laws and customs. Additionally, it is always a good idea to seek advice from your hotel or local authorities for any specific safety concerns or precautions in the area.
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 Trincomalee.

What type of travelers will enjoy Trincomalee the most?

Trincomalee in Sri Lanka has something for everyone and can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. The city has a lot of different attractions and activities that cater to different interests and preferences. For couples, Trincomalee is a romantic destination with secluded beaches, beautiful sunsets, and stunning scenery. It's perfect for a relaxing getaway or a honeymoon. Young people looking for fun can enjoy water sports like surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Trincomalee has some of the best diving spots in Sri Lanka, including Pigeon Island and Swami Rock. Families can enjoy the city's cultural and historical sites, such as the Koneswaram Temple and Fort Fredrick. They can also visit the Trincomalee Natural Harbour, which is one of the world's largest natural harbors and home to a variety of marine wildlife. Overall, Trincomalee is a great destination that has something for everyone, with its mix of beaches, culture, history, and adventure.

How to get around Trincomalee

To move around in Trincomalee, you can use various modes of transportation like tuk-tuks, taxis, buses, or rented bicycles. Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available and can take you anywhere in the city. Buses are the cheapest means of transportation, but they tend to be crowded. If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, you can rent a bicycle to explore the city at your own pace.

What to see around Trincomalee

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Trincomalee in Sri Lanka: 1. Pigeon Island National Park 2. Nilaveli Beach 3. Koneswaram Temple 4. Marble Beach 5. Uppuveli Beach 6. Trincomalee War Cemetery 7. Sri Pathrakali Amman Temple 8. Lankapatuna Samudragiri Viharaya 9. Muttukannuva Fishing Village 10. Velgam Vehera Temple These places are within 30 minutes to an hour's drive from Trincomalee and are great for a day trip.
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