Batticaloa: A Lazy Town on Sri Lanka's Eastern Coast

Batticaloa, a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka's eastern shores, is a captivating holiday destination that beautifully combines rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Known as the "Land of the Singing Fish," Batticaloa gets its nickname from the mysterious fish inhabiting its lagoons, famous for producing unique melodic sounds. Adventurous travelers can even listen to this enchanting phenomenon by travelling with us or a tuning into a BBC audio segment that captures the serene ambiance of the area.

In addition to its aquatic wonders, visitors can embark on a rewarding hike to Thoppigala, where panoramic views and a wealth of historical significance await, revealing the area’s strategic importance during various conflicts. Conveniently, Batticaloa Airport enhances accessibility, making it easier for travelers to explore this hidden gem.

For those seeking underwater adventures, the nearby scuba diving site at the wreck of the H.M.S. Hermes 9 promises an exhilarating experience, allowing divers to explore the remnants of this historic aircraft carrier while witnessing the vibrant marine life that has made it their home.

With its unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural richness, and stunning landscapes, Batticaloa invites travelers to discover a destination that is both serene and filled with adventure, creating unforgettable memories that last long after the journey ends.

Key Attractions:

• Batticaloa Lagoon: Enjoy the serene beauty of Batticaloa Lagoon, a vast expanse of water surrounded by lush mangrove forests.
• Thoppigala: Explore the historic Thoppigala Rock Fortress, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• HMS Hermes 9: Visit the wreck of the HMS Hermes 9, a British aircraft carrier sunk during World War II, now a popular diving site.
• Kallady Beach: Explore the secluded beauty of Kallady Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline with calm waters.
• Navaladi Beach: Discover the hidden gem of Navaladi Beach, a quiet and peaceful beach ideal for swimming and relaxation.
• Batticaloa Lighthouse: Climb the Batticaloa Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, lagoon, and surrounding countryside.
• Mud Crab Dishes: Indulge in the delicious and unique flavors of Batticaloa's famous mud crab dishes, prepared in various styles.

Adventure Activities:

• Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world of Batticaloa, discovering vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
• Boat Tours: Embark on a boat tour to explore the lagoons and waterways of Batticaloa.
• Cycling Tours: Discover the local villages and countryside on a leisurely cycling tour.

Convenient Pick-Up and Drop-Off Options to Baticaloa

To ensure a seamless and stress-free journey to Baticaloa, we offer flexible pick-up and drop-off options tailored to your needs. Our Service Oriented drivers are registered professionals with the Sri Lanka Tourist Board, ensuring you receive the highest level of service. Choose from the following convenient options:

• Airport Pickup: We can arrange for a comfortable and reliable vehicle to pick you up directly from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) or from Palali International Airport in Jaffna (JAF), ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
• Hotel Pickup: If you're already staying in Baticaloa, we can pick you up from your hotel or other nearby locations.
• Customizable Drop-Off: We can arrange for a convenient drop-off location at the end of your stay, whether it's back to the airport or another destination of your choice.

Let us handle the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure in Baticaloa. Select the date from drop down menu below to reserve your vehicle or contact us to book your pick-up and drop-off services and ensure a hassle-free journey.

Rent a Car
- Per day

The price is calculated on 100 Kms per day. When the vehicle is returned the payment will be settled according to the additional Kms driven.

Scheduled Flights from Batticaloa BTC Airport

On this page, you could reserve scheduled domestic flights from Batticaloa BTC Airport to few available destinations. Visit each relevant destination page to find ...

Charter Flights
to Ratmalana Airport

On this page, you could reserve a 12 seater charter flight to Ratmalana Airport from few destinations. This is the best way to reach the capital city & international airport ...

Charter Flights
to Katunayake Airport

On this page, you could reserve a 12 seater charter flight to Katunayake Airport from few destinations. This is the best way to reach the capital city & international airport ...

Helicopter Ride from/to
Colombo

This is a day helicopter ride from Colombo to Batticaloa and back. Four seater & 6 seater helis are available. Travel like a King
 ...

Let’s Cook and Fish!
- 9 hrs

Visit to Batticaloa market. Cooking class. Lunch with a family. Bicycle ride along Batticaloa lagoon. Visit to the lighthouse area. Fishing class ...

A day in Thoppigala
- 9 hrs

Bird watching. Climbing Kudumbimalai rock. Visit to the military museum. Lunch with a local family. Observing wildlife. Interacting ...

Historic Batticaloa
- 9 hrs

Visit to oldest local buildings. Insights into the Dutch, Portuguese and British architectures. Lunch with a local family. Visit to religious buildings of 4 faiths. Scars of recent history (war, tsunami). Heritage Museum of Kattankudy ...

Palamunai Colours
- 9 hrs

Ride along the beach and lagoon. Visit to the fish market. Observation of vegetable gardens. Visit to Kattankudy Heritage Museum. Discovering handloom handicra ...

Towards Mylambaveli
- 8.5 hrs

Walk in the bird sanctuary. Pujah in a Hindu Temple. Lunch with a local family and visit of a local farm demonstration of Palmyrah handicraft. Relaxation ...

SCUBA Diving
- in Batticaloa

Season - 15 Feb - 15 Nov

Explore the least explored 80% of Batticaloa!

H.M.S. Hermes 9
- 53 meters

This SCUBA dive site best accessible from Batticaloa. H.M.S. Hermes 9 is a Second World War shipwreck site. This is the British Royal Navy's first purposely ...

Sri lankan Cookery Lessons
– 3 hrs

Welcome to our Sri Lankan cookery lesson, where the vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions of this stunning island come to life! We can host this cooking lesson in all ma ...

Boating in Unnichai
- 9 hrs

Visit to a village Hindu temple. Visit to paddy fields and cultivation areas. Observing wildlife on the way. Chilling out. Bathing. Walking ...

Reserve Your Cycle
–  per day

Cycling offers an unforgettable way to discover the diverse landscapes, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. With CCT Sri Lanka, a trusted travel partner who takes care of all your ...

Book Your Batticaloa Adventure With a Certified Guide Today:

Discover the captivating charm of Batticaloa and explore the diverse attractions it has to offer. Let us help you plan your unforgettable holiday to this enchanting destination in Sri Lanka. When you choose our services, you can rest assured that you're in the hands of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing you with a memorable and enjoyable journey.