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Why Visit the East Coast of Sri Lanka?

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Why Visit the East Coast of Sri Lanka?
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Holidays to Sri Lanka's east coast and the resorts there are increasing in popularity as more hotels open up and the logistics of travelling around here become simpler. As well as having most of the island’s best beaches, the east coast is in season during the May to September period: with flat seas and low rainfall, just as the south coast sees rougher seas and monsoon winds bringing heavy showers. The east coast beaches are generally under-developed and picture postcard pretty.

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The main beach holiday destinations on the east coast are Trincomalee to the north, Pasikudah in the middle and Arugum Bay to the south. All of these locations have excellent hotels and beach resorts. Outside of these areas though are miles of untouched and undeveloped coastline.  

Trincomalee

To the north, Trincomalee is a large town built around a harbour, described as one of the finest in the world. The large potential for tourism in this area has not yet been explored, but it is an interesting place to visit and the beaches to the north of the town, at Uppuveli and Nilaveli are spectacular. There are also some hot springs in the area and wonderful old temples. Elephants sometimes roam freely in the surrounding countryside, which is beautiful and at times wild.

Pasikudah

Pasikudah's wide, sweeping bay is commonly regarded as the best beach on Sri Lanka’s east coast, though it has suffered from too much post-war development. Nearby Batticaloa is a fascinating town and well worth a visit too, with its large lagoon and interesting if tragic recent history. Like much of the region, it is ethnically and religiously diverse.

Arugum Bay

Further south, with world-class surfing during the right season, Arugum Bay attracted dedicated surfers throughout the war years and is gaining popularity rapidly now among the international surfing community.

Gal Oya National Park

Inland, there are the national parks of Maduru Oya and Gal Oya which are also starting to open up again, along with numerous sites of religious and cultural significance.

Please contact us for advice on staying in this area. Infrastructure does not yet compare to the rest of the country, although this adds a certain charm and sense of adventure to any trip to this region. 

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Popular Sri Lanka Holiday Ideas:

South Coast Discovery

South Coast Discovery

Head to Sri Lanka's southern coastline. Explore the exotic landscape, discover historical Galle, and relax on the beach.

Laid back Sri Lanka

Laid back Sri Lanka

Relax and enjoy the glorious beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka but with limited tiring journeys and added serendipity.

Relaxed Sri Lanka Holiday

Relaxed Sri Lanka Holiday

Escape the crowds, take in some of the best scenery in Sri Lanka at a slow & relaxing pace and stay in some unique hotels.

Slow Paced Luxury

Slow Paced Luxury

Some of the most beautiful luxury accommodation in the south of Sri Lanka and a deluxe wildlife safari away from the crowds.

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