Trincomalee

Do you wish to pay a visit to one of the oldest cities in Asia? If you are in Sri Lanka look no further, pay a visit to Trincomalee, a city  situated on the north eastern coast of the island. Speciality of this city is that it is built on a peninsula surrounded by the beautiful blue ocean rich in marine life and  white sand beaches. This is where the famous Koneswaram temple is located, known as the temple of nine pillars. Trincomalee is known for its tamil language speaking culture. You will find one of the world’s finest harbors here.

History of Trincomalee

The “Sacred Hill of the Three Temples” is located in Trincomalee and is known by a number of names as legends say, including Kna Malai, Kn Malai, and Tiru Kna Malai. The place known as Gkarna, is located on the eastern side of the island and is also mentioned in the Mahavamsa.

According to Sanskrit inscriptions,the Pallavas of South India had a significant impact on the area during the reign of the King of Ceylon, Manavanna (668–703 AD). It is reasonable to infer from this account and other related ones that the Pallava kings gave the Koneswaram temple a great deal of attention and significantly expanded it. It was clear from references that it was a shrine of enormous stature.

The royal patronage customs were upheld by the Chola and Pandyan kings. The inscriptions found in Fort Frederick’s archway, bear the double fish symbol of the Pandyan kings, speak volumes about the Pandyan connections that are dated to the 13th century.

Best Places To Visit in Trincomalee

Koneswaram Temple

Koneswaram Temple is a significant Hindu temple in Trincomalee, Koneswaram. It has experienced both prosperous and difficult periods during European colonization. The temple, which is situated inside the storied Fort Frederick, provides the ideal fusion of the island’s distinctive culture.

It is also one of the most significant Hindu temples in the entire nation, the Koneswaram Temple is regarded as one of the Pancha Ishwarams. The temple  still stands thanks to the numerous conquering kingdoms that have protected it, The “Temple of a Thousand Pillars” was  destroyed by Portuguese colonists in the 17th century, resulting in the destruction of numerous priceless artifacts. Nevertheless, this sacred temple was permitted to be rebuilt by the subsequent colonizers, specifically the Dutch and the British. Many lost artifacts were retrieved. The temple still stands on top of the hill in all its beauty and splendor.

Trincomalee War Cemetery

Trincomalee was formerly a naval station. The Admiralty took control of the cemetery after it was formerly known as the Combined Services Cemetery. They took control of the cemetery from the military authorities in April 1948 so that it could be used as a permanent naval cemetery. The Commission was given security of tenure for all time when the United Kingdom Forces left Ceylon, making it the property of the Ceylonese government.

Trincomalee Beach 

The white sandy beaches would be like a haven to spend your holidays at. Trincomalee Beach is famous for whale watching, scuba diving,fishing and even surfing. Sri Lanka is home to stunning sunsets, hospitable locals, and delicious cuisine. A Stay at the beach would make you fall in love with the beautiful neighborhood near the beach and  discover the magic of genuine hospitality.

Sri Pathrakali Amman Temple 

One of the less well-known ancient temples that shows how the island’s first kingdom thrived with Buddhism. It was constructed during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa, succeeding kings took on the duty of maintaining the house of worship, which continued until the Polonnaruwa Kingdom became the nation’s center of power. Intriguingly though, this temple was one of the few buildings that survived the Chola invasions that occurred in the nation. Consequently the ruins we see now are the result of centuries of neglect. A visit to this ancient temple will show you  a glimpse of the rich culture Sri Lanka had in ancient  times.

Marble Beach

This seaside treasure, also known as Saliara Beach, is loved for its crystal-clear waters and, as the name implies, its white marble pebbled beach. It is situated within a small, isolated bay.  Spend your holidays at this beautiful place and feel the tranquility of nature itself. 

Kanniya Hot Springs

Kanniya Hot Springs  are a group of hot springs found close to Trincomalee.

What’s unique about these springs? You will see a total of  seven wells in this area, and each one is brimming with bubbling hot water that has been obtained from  various streams. What’s amazing is that it’s all natural! While you explore them you will come accross the decaying remains of an old monastery that can be found close to the hot springs. These can make for an interesting exploration session during your trip and provide some fascinating insights into the past of Kanniya Hot Springs and the ancient Sri Lankans who once visited it.

Lanka Pattuna 

Lankapatuna is located in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province’s Trincomalee District. This is one of the ports in Sri Lanka that Indians used to enter the country. It holds many historical memories, it is said Prince Hemalatha and Prince Dantha landed here with the tooth relic.

Fort Frederick 

Fort Frederick in Trincomalee was built by the Portuguese in 1623. The fort  is one of the most significant forts on the entire island because of its advantageous location overlooking the bustling harbor. Due to its significant strategic location and unique natural features, the Trincomalee harbor is one of the most significant harbors in all of Asia, due to this many European colonists have controlled the region.

Trincomalee also has many other famous places with cultural and historical values for you to visit. Arisimale Beach, Velgam Vehera, Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara and many more. This ancient city is a place to be explored by any traveler.

Things To Do in Trincomalee

Trincomalee has one of the nicest beaches in Sri Lanka, and they are considered to be some of the country’s most stunning coastline. 

Snorkeling at Pigeon Island

If you’re visiting Trincomalee, Pigeon island is a place you can’t miss. This island is only accessible by boat. It is an island famous for Snorkeling where you can explore the ocean and have close encounters with various fish, corals, turtles and even small sharks. This is an experience you wouldn’t want to miss! You can even hire a guide to help you explore this beautiful island.

Whale Watching 

Whale watching is a well-liked activity on Sri Lanka’s east coast. June to August is the best time for whale watching. Gain a one time life experience as you watch these majestic beautiful sea creatures show up to leave you in awe of their beauty and size. Best part is not only are you able to watch them, you can even take the opportunity to swim with them. Trincomalee is a palace that offers you beyond your expectations. This would cost you a bit extra but it’s all worth it!

Unwind at  the lovely Dutch Bay Beach 

Dutch Bay Beach is a place where it’s rarely crowded during weekdays. After exploring the famous temples and fort this is a place you could relax. The stunning white-sand beach  is around the corner of  the Fort’s main entrance. 

Visit the Maritime Museum

If you’re a person curious about Sri Lank’s ancient past this is a place you should consider paying a visit to. The ancient displays will take you back to the island’s  cultural history. You could also check out the amazing view from the rooftop of the museum, a sight  every traveler would love to see.

Trincomalee is a city you could get lost in, where you wont feel the days go or the time pass as you begin to explore its beauty.

Food and shopping at Trincomalee

The city is famous for its seafood and also for its traditional Sri Lankan meals. Sri Lankan seafoods are made with  rich spices. It is known for its traditional cuisine as well. You could also find western menus that are popular dishes like salads, pastas, fish and fries. If you’re looking for traditional meals you can find a variety of curries that are best for a filling lunch or dinner when served with rice.

Trincomalee also consists of souvenir shops. You will be able to find a wide range of items such as handmade batik garments, jewelry and gems and hand crafted items depicting Sri Lanka’s rich culture giving you the chance to take back memories of this beautiful city with you. Also take a look around the various stalls found in the pathway to the Koneswaram temple as you pay a visit.

Transport modes to Trincomalee

There are three main modes we would suggest. If you’re looking for a cheaper way to travel, bus or train would be an option. By bus it would take you about 6 hours and 50 minutes whereas train would take you about 8 hours and 30 minutes. Taking a taxi would take you a lesser amount of time which is about 4 hours but would cost you more.

Best time to visit Trincomalee

The ideal month to pay a visit to this city is from the month of February to August.During these months it is mostly sunny and the weather is ideal to explore for any traveler

What’s the weather like in Trincomalee?

Mostly it is warm throughout the year. July is the hottest month, followed by June and May. Normally temperatures rise to about 97°F (36.1°C).

Why wait another day when a city has so much to offer? Come take a visit and gain the experience of a lifetime where every moment this ancient city will teach you something new and of course the beautiful coastline with white sand beaches is a place to relax during holidays. Trincomalee offers you various activities and wild adventures at a very low price therefore make sure to make it your destination!