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1. Sri Thirukoneswaram Kovil
Trincomalee is less crowded than the busy Southern coast cities of Sri Lanka. The city is home for a lot of Hindu families and therefore have to definitely visit Sri Thirukoneswaram Kovil.
The Kovil is situated within Fort Frederick, an old 17th century building complex.it boasts of the Northern Sri Lankan culture which is different from the culture seen in central plains of the country. Sri Thirukoneswaram Kovil is an aesthetic destination that holds great significance for the Hindu people, when visiting you will feel the different religious vibe surrounding the Kovil.
Visit Koneswaram when there is pooja so you can observe the rituals and practices carried out by the Pujaris. Get the blessings from the Kovil and you will be offered some fruits from the worshippers.
2. Fort Frederick
Trincomalee Fort or also famed as Fort Frederick is a 17th century, Portuguese built fortress. It was built from the debris of a destroyed Hindu temple with the objective to prevent European enemies building another fort which will be a disadvantage for the Portuguese.
However, later as invasions happened both Dutch and French took over the Fort and rebuilt it to a great extent to defend against enemies and to protect their naval fleets and artilleries during wars. Trincomalee port continues to be an attractive point in Sri Lanka because of its natural defense in nature as one of world’s best natural harbors. You will feel the historical vibes as you explore the old colonial time fort.
3. Marble Beach
If any beach lover arrives at Trincomalee he cannot miss out on Marble beach because of its attractive nature. Marble beach is famous for a few reasons; a clean, well maintained beach with clear emerald waters that is maintained by the Sri Lankan Air Forces.
It is a good place for families with little kids to go swimming and enjoy the day together because of the timid waves and for a long distance the waters do not get too deep. You can relax and spend the day by the beachside. An early morning trip to the Marble beach will let you see the beautiful sunrise. Sometimes you will also enjoy snorkeling in the sea.
4. Pigeon Island National Park
Pigeon Island is about 2.5 kilometers away from Trincomalee and as such it takes a small boat ride to arrive at this National Park. People can go snorkeling and diving to observe beautiful habitats of marine life underwater.
There are a lot of coral reefs, glamorous fish, reef sharks and turtles. There are professionals ashore that will help and guide the travelers. Despite being named Pigeon Island it is not a bird sanctuary park. Be careful and caring towards coral life when you go underwater to observe.
5. Whale and Dolphin Watching
It is not easy to witness whales in their natural habitat, therefore if you come during the season from May to October be sure not to miss the opportunity! Tours to whale watching begin very early in the morning.
Sperm Whales, deep diving whales swimming in large groups can be seen spotted from time to time. Spinner Dolphins are also another kind of interesting sight that can be witnessed in Trincomalee surrounding waters. Whale watching is a huge part of the tourist attractions in Sri Lanka and something travelers must not miss on your trip.
6. Visit Welgam Vihara Site
Compared to many famous monastery archaeological sites in Sri Lanka, Welgam Vihara is less known in Sri Lanka. However, you won’t regret visiting the site because this ancient monastery lies near the Periyakulam Tank in Kanniya, Trincomalee. Some ruins are still in the jungle being uncovered.
It is believed to be built during the reign of King Devanampiyathissa. Later with the demise of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Kingdoms the temple has been abandoned and thus fallen into ruins because of less care. However, the monastery has survived many invasions from outsiders. The carvings and some inscriptions are still visible to the naked eye. You can also visit the nearby hot springs in Kanniya.
7. Visit Nilaveli
Nilaveli is a small coastal town in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. It can also be introduced as a famous beach area among the tourists. Nilaveli Beach is famous for its beautiful white grainy sandy shores spreading across the beach.
You can go snorkeling other than swimming. The clear blue waters, palm trees stretched along the shore and the beautiful sky line creates the perfect backdrop for your photographs. Beach lovers can relax and rest or try the local cuisine from the restaurants around the area.
8. Visit Patrakali Amman Kovil
Patrakali Amman Kovil or Kali Kovil is a Hindu temple that worships Goddess Bhadrakali(a form of GOddess Kali Amman) in Trincomalee, Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Koneswarama Kovil is visible to Patrakali Kovil and also the Swami Rock hill. The temple has classical Dravidian architecture.
Guests can visit and watch rituals performed by the Pujaris and also get blessed. Walk around and see the artfully painted paintings on the ceiling and walls, and statues of goddesses. There is a central shrine and two other shrines on either side. You will witness devotees praying at the Kovil when visiting.
9. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
There are few diving centers offering professional assistance to the water sports lovers who love to go scuba diving and snorkeling.
Diving sites as suggested by PADI IDC:
(https://www.srilanka-divingtours.com/dive-sites-in-trincomalee/)
Navy island, South Reef, North Reef, Swami rock, Rort rock, Double rock, Uppuveli Reef,Dowry Reef, Madagala, Coral island, Pigeon island, Crow island, Dijamba Gala, White rock, Irakandy, Anemone Reef, Knife rock, Pare Gala
Snorkeling Places: Pigeon Island, Nilaveli beach, Coral Island, Swami rock, Navy Island
10. Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary
Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary will be an attractive destination to bird watchers, nature lovers and nature photographers. Every year there are migratory birds, native and endemic species of birds that occupy this lush land for birds.
This precious sanctuary is located along Kokillai lagoon, in the North Eastern part of Sri Lanka. It is partly surrounded by mangrove swamps, seagrass beds, cultivated land, scrubs and open forests. Elephants can also be found in the sanctuary sometimes. This natural habitat provides for many precious birds’ living.
