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Trincomalee Coast
Combine beaches, snorkelling or diving areas, temples and one of Sri Lanka's great natural harbours.
East-coast beaches, lagoons and surf
Explore Eastern Province
Follow Sri Lanka's eastern shoreline through Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara for long beaches, warm-water activities, lagoons, wildlife and distinct local cultures.
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Places
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Districts
14
Towns
6
Experiences
Province guide
Why Visit Eastern Province?
Eastern Province stretches along a long, varied coastline. Trincomalee is known for its natural harbour, temples and beach areas; Batticaloa brings lagoon landscapes and local culture; Ampara includes surf-focused Arugam Bay as well as wildlife and quieter coastal communities.
The east is especially valuable for travellers visiting Sri Lanka when parts of the southwest are wetter. It rewards a slower route because beaches, lagoons and towns are spread across a broad coastline rather than concentrated in one resort strip.
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Batticaloa Lagoon
Explore lagoon scenery, local food, historic sites and a quieter urban base on the east coast.
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Arugam Bay & Ampara
Mix surf culture with wildlife, temples, lagoons and coastal villages across the province's southeast.
Explore the region
Districts in Eastern Province
Choose your experience
Things to Explore in Eastern Province
Start exploring
View all places Popular Places in Eastern Province
AttractionsAncient Sluice of Kantale Tank
Trincomalee
Ancient Sluice of Kantale Tank is an attraction in Trincomalee.
AttractionsAndamkulam
Trincomalee
Andamkulam is an attraction in Trincomalee.
Historical PlacesAradana Saya Temple
Trincomalee
Aradana Saya Temple is a historical site in Trincomalee.
BeachesArisimale Beach
Trincomalee
Arisimale Beach is a beach in Trincomalee.
Historical PlacesArmy Museum Orrs Hill
Trincomalee
Army Museum Orrs Hill is a historical site in Trincomalee.
BeachesArugam Bay Beach
Pottuvil
Arugam Bay Beach is a beach in Pottuvil.
BeachesBalameen Madu Beach
Batticaloa
Balameen Madu Beach is a beach in Batticaloa.
Historical PlacesBambaragala Cave Monastery
Trincomalee
Bambaragala Cave Monastery is a historical site in Trincomalee.
Popular Towns in Eastern Province
Plan your journey
Getting to and around Eastern Province
Eastern Province is reached by long-distance road and rail links, with private transport useful for moving between dispersed coastal areas.
By train
Rail services connect Colombo with Trincomalee and Batticaloa, offering a useful overnight or long-distance option.
By road
Long-distance buses and private vehicles connect the east with Colombo, Kandy, the Cultural Triangle and southern routes.
Along the coast
Taxis, buses and hired vehicles are practical for linking beach towns and remote nature or surf areas.
Suggested Trip Ideas
Trincomalee Escape
Base near Trincomalee for beaches, a temple or harbour visit and one marine activity if conditions suit.
Batticaloa to Arugam Bay
Combine lagoon landscapes, local culture and the south-eastern surf belt.
East Coast Journey
Travel through all three districts with enough time for beaches, local towns and wildlife.
Travel Tips
1
Check seasonal sea conditions before booking diving, snorkelling or boat activities.
2
Keep transfer days realistic because towns are spread over a long coastline.
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Respect local customs around religious sites and communities with different cultural traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which districts are in Eastern Province?
Eastern Province contains Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara districts.
When is the east coast best for beaches?
The middle of the year, broadly from May to September, is commonly favoured for east-coast beach travel.
Is Eastern Province only for surfing?
No. The region also offers diving, snorkelling, lagoons, wildlife, temples, historic sites and quieter beach towns.
Planning a trip to Eastern Province?
Build a day-by-day itinerary or get a realistic budget before you go, both take less than a minute.
Explore Sri Lanka by Province
Move from island-wide discovery into regional guides, districts, towns and individual places.