Batticaloa
Sri Lanka · Eastern Province · 3 m
Description
Batticaloa (மட்டக்களப்பு) on Sri Lanka’s east coast stretches across islands and peninsulas along an extensive lagoon and is one of the culturally significant cities of the Tamil dominated eastern region. The historic Batticaloa Fort was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later expanded by the Dutch. Kallady Bridge connects the city with the eastern shore and leads towards the long sandy beaches of Kallady. Batticaloa is also known for the legend of the “singing fish”, whose unusual sounds are said to be heard from the lagoon on quiet nights. Lagoons, palms and fishing villages shape the surrounding landscape and give the city its distinctive character.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Batticaloa Dutch Fort
- Batticaloa Lagoon boat tour
- Singing fish at Kallady Bridge (April - September)
- Batticaloa Lighthouse
- Kallady Beach
- Mamangam and lagoon fishing villages
- Mamangapillayar Kovil
- St. Mary’s Cathedral
- Thiruchendur Murugan Alayam, Kokkaddicholai(Day trip)
- Batticaloa Gate and the old town streets
- Kayaking on the lagoon
Getting there
- Airports:
- BTC
- Train stations:
- Batticaloa