Nilaveli Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Nilaveli with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Nilaveli

Located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, Nilaveli is a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, offering a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and culture seekers. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Nilaveli.

List of Places to Visit in Nilaveli

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Koneswaram Temple: Also known as the Temple of a Thousand Pillars, Koneswaram Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex consists of various intricately carved stone structures, statues, and ornamental pillars, showcasing the Dravidian style of architecture.

  2. Trincomalee War Cemetery: This Commonwealth War Cemetery is a memorial to honor the soldiers who lost their lives during the World War II. It holds the remains of more than 400 soldiers from the allied forces, including those from India, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Natural Attractions of Nilaveli: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Pigeon Island National Park: Pigeon Island is a small island situated off the coast of Nilaveli, famous for its abundant coral reefs, marine life, and crystal clear waters. The island is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, allowing visitors to witness an array of exotic sea creatures up close.

  2. Nilaveli Beach: Nilaveli Beach is a stunning stretch of white sandy beach, situated along the Bay of Bengal. The beach offers a range of water activities, including surfing, sailing, and kayaking. Visitors can relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy spectacular views of the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nilaveli

  1. Fort Frederick Trail: Fort Frederick, built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, is situated on a hill overlooking Trincomalee Bay. Visitors can hike to the fort through a scenic trail, passing through lush greenery, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

  2. Kanniya Hot Springs Trail: Situated in the nearby Kanniya town, the Kanniya Hot Springs are a set of seven natural hot water springs. Visitors can hike to the hot springs, located in a tranquil forest, and soak in the therapeutic waters amidst the serene surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Nilaveli: Activities and Tours

  1. Snorkeling and Diving: Nilaveli offers some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in Sri Lanka, with diverse coral reefs and marine life. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the underwater world and witness exotic sea creatures such as turtles, rays, and reef sharks.

  2. Whale and Dolphin Watching: Trincomalee Bay is home to a variety of whales and dolphins, including blue whales, sperm whales, and spinner dolphins. Visitors can take a boat tour to witness these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nilaveli

Day Activities
Day 1 Relax on Nilaveli Beach and go for a swim
Day 2 Visit Koneswaram Temple and Fort Frederick
Day 3 Take a guided tour of Pigeon Island National Park
Day 4 Soak in the Kanniya Hot Springs and enjoy a nature walk
Day 5 Go whale and dolphin watching
Day 6 Try surfing or sailing in the Bay of Bengal
Day 7 Explore the local food and drink scene and shop for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Nilaveli

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Kottu Roti: A popular Sri Lankan street food, Kottu Roti is a dish made from chopped roti, mixed with vegetables, meat, and spices. It is often served with a side of curry and is a perfect meal after a day of adventure.

  2. Parippu and Rice: Parippu and Rice is a traditional Sri Lankan dish made from lentils, coconut milk, and rice, served with a side of vegetables and papadum. The dish is a flavorful, wholesome, and comforting option for lunch or dinner.

Local Beverages

  1. Lion Beer: Lion Beer is a popular beer brand in Sri Lanka, often enjoyed on hot summer days. It is a refreshing and crisp beer with a smooth milky flavor.

  2. King Coconut Water: King Coconut Water is a sweet and refreshing drink, perfect for quenching thirst on a scorching day. It is a natural electrolyte-rich drink, packed with various health benefits.

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

  1. Anilana Nilaveli: Anilana Nilaveli is a beautiful boutique resort situated on a white sandy beach, offering luxurious amenities, scenic views, and a range of activities.

  2. Nilaveli Crystal Blue Hotel: Nilaveli Crystal Blue Hotel is a charming hotel, situated a short walk away from the beach. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

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

  1. Handwoven Textiles: Sri Lanka is famous for its handwoven textiles, and Nilaveli offers a range of shops selling beautiful fabrics, shawls, and sarongs. Visitors can buy souvenirs to take home or even get clothes custom-made.

  2. Spices and Tea: Sri Lanka is known for its high-quality spices and tea. Visitors can shop for locally sourced spices and tea, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and black tea, to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Nilaveli

Nilaveli’s culture is deeply rooted in its Hindu and Buddhist heritage, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions. It is customary to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, removing shoes before entering temples, and covering one’s shoulders and knees. Visitors should also respect the environment by not littering and conserving water.

Best Time to Visit Nilaveli

The best time to visit Nilaveli is between May and September when the weather is dry, sunny, and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach holidays.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nilaveli

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Take care of the environment and preserve natural resources.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn some basic words in Tamil and Sinhala.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrupt local religious ceremonies.
  • Take photographs without permission.
  • Touch or feed the marine creatures.
  • Purchase products made from endangered species or non-sustainable practices.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nilaveli

Nilaveli is a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take regular precautions, such as keeping valuables safe, avoiding dark, secluded areas at night, and being aware of potential scams or frauds. Always check local travel advisories and be aware of the current situation.

Health in Nilaveli

Visitors should take necessary health precautions, such as drinking bottled water, using mosquito repellents, and wearing sunscreen. It is advisable to carry some basic medication and travel insurance, especially for outdoor activities or adventure sports.

Getting to Nilaveli: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nilaveli

The nearest airport to Nilaveli is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which is about 262 km away. It is the main international airport in Sri Lanka, with connecting flights to major cities worldwide. Visitors can take a domestic flight to Kuliyapitiya Airport, located about 30 km from Nilaveli.

Bus Stations Near Nilaveli

There are several bus stations in Trincomalee, which offer regular services to and from other cities in Sri Lanka. Visitors can take a bus from Colombo or Kandy to Trincomalee and then take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Nilaveli.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or taxi to reach Nilaveli from other parts of Sri Lanka. It is advisable to negotiate and fix the fare beforehand and check the driver’s license and identity.

How to Get Around in Nilaveli

Visitors can easily walk around Nilaveli since it is a small town, but tuk-tuks and taxis are also readily available for longer distances or for traveling to nearby attractions. Bicycle rentals are also an option for those who prefer cycling.

Where to Go Next from Nilaveli: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Trincomalee: Trincomalee is a historic port town located about 16 km from Nilaveli, known for its ancient temples, colonial buildings, and natural harbor.

  2. Sigiriya: Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage site situated about 150 km from Nilaveli, known for its ancient rock fortress, gardens, and spectacular views.

Conclusion

Nilaveli is a stunning coastal town, surrounded by natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From exploring ancient temples to snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, Nilaveli offers a range of experiences to suit all interests. This comprehensive guide has provided you with everything you need to plan a memorable trip to Nilaveli, and we hope it inspires you to explore this beautiful destination.