Batticaloa: Best things to Do
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Purna
Intro
Batticaloa is a captivating hidden gem nestled on the eastern shores of Sri Lanka. It holds centuries’ worth of stories in its ancient colonial walls.
It is a city that is not only famous for its rich tapestry of history and culture but also its picturesque beaches, such as Pasikudah and Kalkudah.
Here are my top 10 list of things to do in Batticaloa.
The city is full of historical sites, making expeditors from all over the world come to explore this city’s colonial historical past and the influence of various European nations like Portuguese, Dutch, and English.
This city had terrible memories due to World War 2 and the civil war; presently, it gives peaceful vibes to the tourists and locals who are expediting this city.
See Also,
Bit of History
Batticaloa’s scenic natural beauty is compromised by its rich colonial heritage, leaving this city deep insights back to a few centuries apart.
Due to its strategic location, Batticaloa is said to have been a trading hub for merchants during colonial times from the Portuguese, Dutch, and English eras and afterwards.
The significant influence of multiple nations made this city look like a blend of a mix of Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, and British descent ethnic minority groups.
Apart from World War 2 and the civil war, the city was misfortuned by the tsunami in 2004 and the Easter bombings in 2019, which reportedly led to the loss of lives of more than 25 people.
Top 10 things to do in Batticaloa
1. Visit St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church
Built-in 1808, this Church is one of the famous landmarks in Batticaloa as well as among the Christian community of the area.
The Batticaloa area’s local community believes this religious landmark has superpowers to heal the local community.
The Church is located just a 5 mins. From the main centre, therefore, If you are near the Batticaloa area, it is worth visiting this Church as there must also be a religious event every Sunday morning.
2. Feel the breeze at Batticaloa Gate at Gandhi Park
Batticaloa Gate is located in front of the waterfront of the Batticaloa lagoon.
Golden statue is compromised. This place is called the Ghandi Park to pay tribute to the inspired Indian peace leader Mahatma Ghandi. The Dutch built the historical landmark of Batticaloa Gate in the 18th century.
The area gets cool and calm as it gets dark, and enjoying the surroundings with an evening walk is lovely.
3. Visit Batticaloa Lighthouse
Being one of the most historical sites in Batticaloa, This lighthouse represents a perfect example of British colonial architecture.
Ever since this Lighthouse was Built in 1884 during the British era, it has guided thousands of sailors and fishermen who try to find their way to the land in the evening.
Visitors can get stunning panoramic views on top of the lighthouse and learn how it played an essential role in the city’s maritime history.
4. Visit the Batticaloa Clock Tower
Built in the 18th century during the Dutch colonial era, the Batticaloa clock tower is considered one of the iconic historical landmarks in Batticaloa town.
The clock tower is regarded as one of the registered historic monuments open to the public.
5. Wander around the historical Batticaloa Fort
Built-in 1628 by the Portuguese, Batticaloa Fort is one of the first European-built forts in Sri Lanka.
Also known as Fort Frederick, this fort has undergone many renovations, including the Dutch colonial era.
It houses a museum that chronicles the city’s history. This fort is a perfect example of combining local and European architectural styles.
6. Explore the British-made ‘Kalladi Bridge’
Located in Batticaloa, this bridge crosses the Batticaloa Lagoon. It is considered the most prolonged and oldest iron bridge in Sri Lanka.
Built in 1924 in the British Era during the time of the British governor William Manning, this bridge was initially called the “Lady Manning Bridge,” the wife of Willian Manning.
There’s a local myth that music is going on the water on a full moon day, said to be the singing fish. This bridge gives visitors access to the Batticaloa town centre.
7. Explore the best Beaches near Batticaloa, Pasikudah and kalkudah Beaches
Both Passikudah and Kalkudah beaches are only a few minutes’ walking distance.
These beaches are about half an hour’s drive from Batticaloa town centre. Passikudah Beach is one of the scenic beaches in Sri Lanka that is attractive to tourists and locals.
Kaludah Beach is deserted compared to Passikudah Beach. However, visitors can still use it for water sports and activities.
8. Day trip to Trincomalee
Trincomalee(Trinco) is a town on the east coast of Sri Lanka that is all in one place that is renowned for its pristine natural beaches rich colonial history and interesting ethnic diversity allured by its most visited attractions such as historical Fort Drederick, ancient Gokanna Buddhist Temple and Koneswaram Kovil in particular.
Some of Trinco’s scenic beaches offer several activities to have fun in the sun making Trinco a destination that every traveler should put in their bucket list.
The day trip from Bati to Trinco roughly takes about 3 hours.
Also read, Things to Do in Trincomalee
9. Day trip to Sri Lanka’s surfing capital ‘Arugam Bay’
To get to the Island’s best surf spot Arugam Bay from Batti takes only as little as 2 hours.
Arugam Bays’ yearly surf season starts in May and lasts till around November when the Eastern coastal part of Sri Lanka receives big and consistent swells from the Indian Ocean.
It is a laid-back tourist village with a few amazing surf spots, hidden attractions, and rich wildlife that any visitor shouldn’t miss out on during their visit to Arugam Bay.
Also read, Things to Do in Arugam Bay
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