As an island nation, tropical Sri Lankan coasts enjoy two different seasons. Which is the south-west coast and the eastern coast. These two seasons begin with the two monsoon seasons of the country. considering these facts, June to August is the best time of the year to visit eastern coast of Sri Lanka. So, I planned a landscape photographic tour in the middle of May 2023 and started it in the beginning of June 2023. The plan was to cover the entire coastal area from Arugam Bay to Batticaloa. The below sitemap indicates the selected locations which were spread throughout the eastern coast of the island.
If you are person from foreign country or doesn’t have exact idea about the road system, this will be the easiest way to reach to the eastern coast. For this instance, I imagine a person from Colombo, you can use the southern expressway to Hambantota and then head up to Wellawaya town. Then use the A4 road from Wellawaya to Pottuvil.
The coast from Pottuvil to Arugam Bay is very well-known for surfing. If you are into surfing, never miss this place out. It is a paradise for beginner surfers. Panama beach, Pottuvil beach, Peanut farm beach and the Arugam bay beach are the selected locations for beach photography. Also, the area called Pottuvil point has magnificent landscapes with long sandy beaches and rock formations on the beach. Pottuvil Point beach is very popular among professional surfers. It has some rough waves, identical for professional surfers.
Panama Beach
Panama beach is located north to the Pottuvil beach. This long windy beach stretches towards the Yala national park. Also, the beach is very famous for beach camping. If you are lucky enough, you will see wild elephants come across to the Panama beach during camp nights. Moreover, a beautiful pine jungle grown along the beach for miles. White sands mixed with that lush green added dramatic composition to the landscape. There is a small fishing village near to Panama beach and most people involving in fishing as their livelihood. You can see magnificent sand domes along the beach, and it is one of the many specialties of this beach. No other place to see that type of sand domes in eastern coastal areas.
Peanut Farm Beach
Peanut Farm Beach, located on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast, may be your next ideal vacation spot if you’ve been daydreaming of a remote tropical paradise with fine sand and crystal-clear, turquoise waters. This unspoiled paradise, hidden close to Arugam Bay, is a must-visit for anybody looking for a peaceful getaway or for those who enjoy the outdoors since it offers the ideal balance of tranquility, adventure, and unadulterated beauty.
Peanut Farm Beach is located around 10 kilometers south of the surfing hotspot, Arugam Bay. While Arugam Bay attracts a global surfing crowd and has a lively beach town vibe, Peanut Farm Beach remains blissfully quiet and off the radar for most tourists. Its name, derived from an old peanut farm that once stood nearby, only adds to its rustic charm.
The beach is a serene stretch of golden, silky sand that is bordered by lush vegetation and palm trees. Just the calming murmur of the waves and the soft rustle of coconut palms swaying in the breeze may be heard here;
there are no sizable resorts or tourist constructions. It is perfect for tourists who value the unspoiled beauty of nature, feeling like a little piece of paradise lost with the passage of time.
Despite its peaceful atmosphere, Peanut Farm Beach is not without excitement. It’s known for offering some excellent waves, making it a great spot for surfing enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking to ride your first wave, the consistent swells and mellow vibe make it a rewarding destination.
The southern section of the beach is particularly good for beginners, with softer waves rolling in over a sandy bottom. More experienced surfers can head to the northern part, where the waves are a bit more challenging. Surf schools and board rentals are available in nearby Arugam Bay, so you won’t have to worry about gear or guidance.
Pottuvil Point Beach: A Serene Surfer’s Paradise
Pottuvil Point Beach is around five kilometers away from Arugam Bay, but it feels like a piece of pristine paradise because of its verdant surroundings and serene turquoise waters. There’s plenty of room to explore or just relax under the tropical sun along its expansive sandy shoreline, which stretches into the distance and is surrounded by shrubbery and palm trees. Travelers seeking a peaceful and engrossing experience in nature will find the beach’s natural simplicity, stunning rock formations scattered around, and tranquil environment ideal.
Arugam Bay beach: A Surfer’s Paradise with Laid-Back Charm
Arugam Bay is celebrated as one of the premier surfing destinations globally, consistently ranking high among must-visit locations for surfers. The area features long, right-hand point breaks that provide reliable waves suitable for surfers of all skill levels, from beginners catching their first waves to advanced surfers seeking thrilling rides. The optimal time to surf here is during the surf season, which spans from May to October, when the swells are at their best and the beach buzzes with surfers from around the world.
The main surf spot, known simply as “The Point,” is the focal point of Arugam Bay’s surf scene. It boasts long, peeling waves and perfect barrels, making it a paradise for experienced surfers. For those who prefer gentler conditions, nearby locations such as Whiskey Point and Peanut Farm Beach offer more relaxed waves, ideal for novices or those looking to enjoy a leisurely time in the water.
Beyond its surfing allure, Arugam Bay is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and intriguing cultural sites. A short tuk-tuk ride away lies the picturesque Pottuvil Lagoon, where visitors can embark on boat safaris to observe wildlife, including crocodiles, elephants, and exotic birds in their natural habitats.
Additionally, Kumana National Park is a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities to see leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in the wild.
For those interested in history and culture, the ancient temples of Muhudu Maha Viharaya and Magul Maha Viharaya are notable attractions. These sacred Buddhist sites are rich in history and set against beautiful backdrops, offering a serene escape from the beach atmosphere.
Journey continues ...!
After the magnificent days in Arugam Bay and Pottuvil, we continued along the eastern coast to the north. You will see the historic eastern Sri Lankan towns in this lag like, Kattankudy, Batticaloa and Pasikudah. All those are rich in history and packed with tropical beach vibes and adventures. These are the landmarks we selected for landscape photography sessions during this expedition.
- Old Kallady bridge
- Madu beach and Batticaloa lighthouse
- Batticaloa Dutch fort
- Pasikudah Beach
Kallady Bridge, Batticaloa: A Gateway to Scenic Beauty and Local Legends
One of its most recognizable features is the Kallady Bridge, a modest but important building that links tourists with the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes in addition to connecting two areas of the city. A trip to Batticaloa’s renowned lagoon and its long-standing stories are both worth experiencing, but a stop at the Kallady Bridge is a must on any itinerary.
Kallady Bridge, commonly referred to as Lady Manning Bridge, is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and longest iron bridges, spanning the tranquil waters of the Batticaloa Lagoon. Constructed in 1924 during British colonial rule, this iconic structure connects the bustling city of Batticaloa to the charming suburb of Kallady. Measuring 288 meters in length, the bridge not only serves as a vital transportation link but also offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and its picturesque surroundings. This has made it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Kallady Singing Fish….!
One of the most captivating aspects of Kallady Bridge is its connection to one of Sri Lanka’s most intriguing legends—the “Singing Fish” of Batticaloa. According to local folklore, the waters beneath the bridge come alive with mysterious music at certain times of the year. As the story goes, when the conditions are just right, strange melodic sounds can be heard resonating from the depths of the lagoon.
While the legend has sparked curiosity and wonder for generations, there may be a scientific explanation for this phenomenon. Some believe that the sounds are produced by a species of fish, possibly croakers or sea catfish, which create noise by vibrating their swim bladders. Whether folklore or science, the legend of the Singing Fish adds an air of mystery and allure to the Kallady Bridge, making it a must-see for those intrigued by the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Kallady Bridge offers some of the most picturesque views in Batticaloa. As you walk along the bridge, the stunning sight of the tranquil lagoon stretching out beneath you creates a perfect backdrop for photos. The shimmering water, lined by lush mangroves and coconut palms, offers a serene and calming atmosphere that’s ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Madu Beach (Navalady Beach) & Batticaloa Lighthouse
Madu Beach is located on the narrow Navalady Peninsula, which stretches between the Batticaloa Lagoon and the Indian Ocean. This unique geography gives the beach a secluded and untouched quality, where you can enjoy the sound of the waves without the noise of modern life. The sand here is soft and golden, inviting long walks along the shore, while the calm waters are perfect for a relaxing swim or a quiet moment of reflection. With its tranquil vibe and uncrowded shores, it offers the perfect setting for travellers looking to unwind and recharge. You can spend your day lounging under the shade of a palm tree, listening to the rhythmic sound of the waves, or enjoying a quiet swim in the warm, clear waters. The landscapes are quite different compared to other local beaches. All the beach covered with pine jungle is the main attraction to this beach. It’s wonderful to see as well. While Madu Beach is perfect for relaxation, it also offers plenty for nature enthusiasts. The nearby Batticaloa Lagoon is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers, with a wide variety of bird species making their home in the area. You can take a boat ride through the lagoon’s calm waters, keeping an eye out for exotic birds, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
The Batticaloa Lighthouse
Built in 1913 during British colonial administration, the Batticaloa Lighthouse is a reminder of the island’s rich history and its essential function as a hub for seafarers. Constructed to ensure safe navigation of ships across the Batticaloa Lagoon and its surrounding waters, which were formerly crucial trade routes, is this 28-meter-tall white cylindrical tower.
The lighthouse currently functions as a historic monument, symbolizing Batticaloa’s relationship to the water and the marine activities that molded its economy and culture, even though its primary purpose was to aid in navigation. The lighthouse, which is more than a century old, has endured the ages including the destruction caused by the 2004 tsunami and continues to be a significant component of the history of the area.
Batticaloa Dutch Fort
Batticaloa Dutch Fort, located on a small island in the Batticaloa Lagoon, is one of the best-preserved remnants of Sri Lanka’s colonial past. First built by the Portuguese in 1628, the fort was later captured and reinforced by the Dutch in 1638, during their rule over the coastal regions of Sri Lanka. The fort served as an important military outpost, guarding against both local uprisings and European rivals. Eventually, in the late 18th century, it fell into British hands, adding yet another chapter to its colonial legacy. Today, Batticaloa Dutch Fort stands as a testament to the strategic importance of the city throughout history. While it may no longer play a role in military defense, the fort’s weathered walls, stone
bastions, and quiet courtyards offer visitors a powerful connection to the past, evoking a sense of nostalgia for an era when European powers vied for control of Sri Lanka’s lucrative trade routes.
For photographers, Batticaloa Dutch Fort is a dream location. The combination of historic architecture and the surrounding natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities for stunning shots. The fort’s stone walls, weathered by centuries of tropical sun and rain, create a striking contrast against the lush green landscape and the deep blue of the lagoon.
Fort is easily accessible from the centre of Batticaloa town, either by foot or a short tuk-tuk ride. The fort is open to visitors year-round, and since it’s located on the lagoon, it’s a lovely spot to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer, and the heat of the day has subsided. Admission is free, and you’re welcome to wander the grounds at your own pace.
Pasikudah Beach: A Tranquil Escape with Turquoise Waters
One of the most remarkable features of Pasikudah Beach is its shallow lagoon, which stretches far out into the Indian Ocean. This makes it an ideal spot for swimming, especially for families with children or anyone looking for a leisurely dip. The warm, calm waters are gentle and inviting, and you can wade out for what seems like miles with the ocean barely reaching your waist. It’s a rare treat that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings without worrying about waves or strong currents.
The shallow waters also create an incredible visual effect, with the sun reflecting off the sandy seabed to give the water its signature bright turquoise hue. The beauty of the beach, combined with the quiet, peaceful atmosphere, makes Pasikudah the perfect escape for those looking to unwind and soak up the sun.
Pasikudah has grown as a luxury destination over recent years, with high-end resorts and boutique hotels lining the beach. These resorts offer stunning ocean views, infinity pools, and world-class amenities that make Pasikudah an appealing destination for honeymooners and travelers looking for a more indulgent experience.
Many of the resorts have private beach access, where you can relax on a sun lounger, sip on a fresh coconut, and enjoy the gentle sea breeze. Spas offering traditional Ayurvedic treatments and wellness packages are also a common feature, providing the ultimate relaxation experience in this peaceful tropical paradise.
Moreover, Snorkelling and scuba diving are particularly rewarding in Pasikudah. The beach is surrounded by healthy coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life, including schools of colourful fish, rays, and even the occasional turtle. Dive centres in the area offer guided tours and equipment rentals, so whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, you can explore the wonders beneath the surface.
Pasikudah Beach is at its best during the dry season, from April to September, when the skies are clear, and the waters are calm. This is the ideal time for swimming, water sports, and enjoying the full beauty of the beach without worrying about rain or strong winds. The monsoon season hits the east coast from October to March, so if you’re planning a visit to Pasikudah, aim for the dry months to make the most of your trip.
What a wonderful expedition… at Pasikudah, we ended our east coast landscape photography expedition with hand full of memories and some unbelievable knowledge about Sri Lankan history. If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka or as a local, never miss east coast in your bucket list. It is that magnificent. You already seen those landscapes from this article and why not seen it from your own eyes? Hope to see you in another adventure.
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