Trincomalee

Trincomalee gives you both a town to explore and beaches to spend time on. It sits beside a large natural harbour on the east coast. Around town, you will find busy streets, religious sites and reminders of its long history as a port.

Koneswaram Temple stands high above the sea, with views along the coast. You can visit the area around Fort Frederick on the same outing. Uppuveli and Nilaveli are nearby options for beach time, whether you want to stay by the water or return after a morning in town.

The temple photos give you a closer look at the colourful figures, towers and painted details you may notice during a visit. Walk slowly around the areas open to visitors. There is often more to see in the smaller carvings than you first notice from the entrance.

The long stretch of sand in the beach photo shows another side of a stay here. You could spend the morning exploring town and leave the afternoon for the coast. Choose a beach near your accommodation if you would rather have more time by the water than on the road.

A few unplanned hours suit this part of the coast. Leave time for a meal, a beach walk or simply sitting in the shade. Ask locally about sea conditions before swimming or booking a boat trip.