Batticaloa Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Batticaloa, Sri Lanka with this comprehensive guide featuring a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, week-long itinerary, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Batticaloa

Batticaloa is a city located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, mouth-watering cuisine, and serene atmosphere. This lesser-known gem is a great place to explore if you’re seeking an off-beat travel experience in Sri Lanka.

List of Places to Visit in Batticaloa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Batticaloa Fort

The Batticaloa Fort is a well-preserved Dutch fort that dates back to the 17th century. This iconic landmark is located on a small island and is accessible via a bridge. With a rich history and stunning architecture, the Batticaloa Fort is a must-visit for history buffs and photographers.

Kallady Bridge

Kallady Bridge, also known as Lady Manning Bridge, is a historic bridge that crosses the Batticaloa Lagoon. Built in the early 1900s, it’s an engineering marvel and a popular spot for taking selfies and enjoying scenic views.

St. Mary’s Cathedral

St. Mary’s Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic-style church located in the heart of Batticaloa. With its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful ambiance, this sacred site is a great place to connect with your faith and marvel at the town’s heritage.

Natural Attractions of Batticaloa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pasikudah Beach

Pasikudah Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Sri Lanka, known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

Kalkudah Beach

Kalkudah Beach is another picturesque beach that’s ideal for swimming and relaxing. With its soft sand and calm waters, it’s a great spot for families with children.

Batticaloa Lagoon

The Batticaloa Lagoon is a large body of shallow water that’s home to a wide variety of bird species and marine life. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Batticaloa

The Dutch Channel

The Dutch Channel is a 50 km canal that runs through the heart of Batticaloa at sea level. The canal provides a great opportunity for biking and hiking, where you can explore the local flora and fauna along the way.

Batticaloa to Kattankudy Route

If you’re looking for a challenging cycling route in Batticaloa, the Batticaloa to Kattankudy Route is worth considering. With stunning scenery and steep inclines, this route is perfect for experienced cyclists.

Best Things to Do in Batticaloa: Activities and Tours

Batticaloa Lighthouse

The Batticaloa Lighthouse is a recently renovated tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It’s a great spot for capturing panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Sri Lanka Navy Campsite

The Sri Lanka Navy Campsite is a popular spot for adventure seekers who enjoy camping, hiking, and water sports. It’s located on the scenic shores of the Batticaloa Lagoon, surrounded by lush forests, and offers a range of activities such as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Week-Long Itinerary for Batticaloa

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Batticaloa Fort, Kallady Bridge, and St. Mary’s Cathedral
Day 2 Spend the day at Pasikudah Beach
Day 3 Explore Kalkudah Beach and Batticaloa Lagoon
Day 4 Go biking along the Dutch Channel
Day 5 Take a tour of Sri Lanka Navy Campsite
Day 6 Visit the Batticaloa Lighthouse and go fishing
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Batticaloa

Must-Try Dishes

Kottu Roti

Kottu Roti is a popular street food in Batticaloa, made with shredded roti, vegetables, and meat. It’s a spicy and delicious snack that you can find almost anywhere in the city.

Prawn Curry

Prawn Curry is a mouth-watering dish that’s made by cooking fresh prawns in a spicy coconut-based curry sauce. It’s a staple food in Batticaloa, and you’ll find it on every good restaurant’s menu.

Local Beverages

Toddy

Toddy is a sweet and sour alcoholic beverage made from fermented coconut water. It’s a popular drink among the locals and is best enjoyed chilled.

Where to Stay in Batticaloa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Riviera Resort

Riviera Resort is a luxurious 4-star property situated on the shores of the beautiful Pasikudah Beach. The resort offers modern facilities, stunning views, and impeccable service.

Hotel East Lagoon

Hotel East Lagoon is a mid-range hotel located close to the Batticaloa Lagoon. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, good food, and excellent service at an affordable price.

Sena Hotel

Sena Hotel is a budget hotel located in the city center of Batticaloa. The hotel offers basic facilities, clean rooms, and a convenient location at a low price.

What to Buy in Batticaloa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Handicrafts

Handicrafts such as pottery, wood carvings, and traditional clothing are popular souvenirs to bring back from Batticaloa. You can find these items at local markets and street vendors across the city.

Spices

Sri Lanka is known for its aromatic spices, and Batticaloa is no exception. You can find a range of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and clove at local markets, which make for great authentic souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Batticaloa

The locals in Batticaloa are friendly and hospitable, and they take great pride in their culture and heritage. Visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Batticaloa

The best time to visit Batticaloa is from May to October when the weather is warm and dry. However, if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, consider traveling during the offseason from November to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Batticaloa

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn a few basic Sinhala phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water.
  • Take photographs of people or religious sites without their consent.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Batticaloa

Batticaloa is a relatively safe city for travelers, but it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone late at night, and be sure to lock your doors and windows when staying in accommodations.

Health in Batticaloa

It’s important to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites when traveling to Batticaloa, as the area is known to have cases of dengue fever. Be sure to stay hydrated, carry sunscreen, and avoid eating from roadside vendors to prevent foodborne illness.

Getting to Batticaloa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Batticaloa

Batticaloa does not have an airport. The closest airport is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which is about 300 km from Batticaloa.

Bus Stations Near Batticaloa

Batticaloa has a central bus station that connects to major cities in Sri Lanka. Buses are an affordable and convenient way to travel around the country.

Other Options

Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available in Batticaloa and are an easy way to get around the city. You can also rent a bike or a scooter to explore the town at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Batticaloa

Tuk-tuks, taxis, and buses are the most common modes of transportation in Batticaloa. You can also rent a bike or a scooter to explore the town at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Batticaloa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a picturesque coastal town located about 120 km from Batticaloa, known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and colonial architecture.

Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is a small seaside town located about 105 km from Batticaloa, known for its world-class surfing, scenic views, and vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Batticaloa is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka, offering visitors a unique travel experience. With its stunning beaches, ancient temples, mouth-watering cuisine, and serene ambiance, Batticaloa is a destination worth exploring. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Batticaloa.

Batticaloa Clock Tower Batticaloa Clock Tower Batticaloa Fort seen from Northeast. Batticaloa Fort seen from Northeast. Batticaloa Gate Batticaloa Gate Old Kallady Bridge Old Kallady Bridge