How to make the most of your trip to Batticaloa?

Fondly referred to as ‘Batti,’ the town of Batticaloa located along Sri Lanka’s eastern coastal belt warrants more than a mere casual glance. Given its laidback vibe, colonial architecture and beautiful beaches to delight in, Batticaloa is an adventure that you must go on when holidaying in the Emerald Isle. Outlined below are the ways and means by which you can make the most of your time in this part of the country.

Spend time around Batticaloa Lagoon

For those who thirst for adventurous pursuits and invaluable insights into the daily goings on of the locals, then making for Batticaloa Lagoon will be a step in the right direction. This is because you will be warmly welcomed by scenes of fishermen casting their nets and patches of greenery that hug the borders of the Lagoon. Better yet and for sweeping views of this local attraction, then it is mandatory to travel across Lady Manning Bridge where you will find all the reasons to have your camera tag along for the trip.

Go boating near the Batticaloa Lighthouse

Do not be put off by the fact that the Batticaloa Lighthouse cannot be visited but to the keen boater out there, the said landmark will surely be the talking point of your day’s activities. Easily identified by its white exterior that can be witnessed from miles ahead, the waters surrounding the Lighthouse provide excellent conditions to hire a boat and set about basking in the glory of the morning sun and a true marvel on Sri Lanka’s eastern shoreline.

Visit the Batticaloa Fort

For an encounter with the town’s ties to the colonial masters of yesteryear, do schedule a visit to Batticaloa Fort which also goes by the name of the ‘Old Dutch Fort.’ Situated amidst green environs and tidal ponds, the fortified structure of the Batticaloa Fort saw the light of day in 1628 and under the watchful eyes of the Portuguese. Its thick walls which run the length of the Fort are a stunning work of engineering prowess while sweeping panoramas of the Indian Ocean can be delighted no sooner you set foot inside.

Tune into the Singing Fish on Kallady Bridge

If you happen to be arriving from April to September, then you will be thrilled to know that the waters of the Batticaloa Lagoon are home to a one-of-a-kind phenomenon – the Singing Fish. Known to emanate a faint sound from deep down below that is often interpreted as guitar chords being plucked, this attraction is best captured while being on a boat. Watch as the locals insert one end of the oar into the water and place the other end near their ear to listen to the moving melody. Although, if you do not fancy being on the water, then you can remain on Kallady Bridge and attempt to catch some of the harmonies.

Pay homage at Anipandi Sitivigniswara Alayar Temple

Characterised by a magnificent gateway tower or ‘gopuram’ is the Anipandi Sitivigniswara Alayar Temple which is without a doubt, a sight for eyes and a worthy investment of your time for culture buffs seeking to learn of the ways of the locals and their beliefs. While you will be required to cover up appropriately in the form of a shawl, sarong or any loose-fitting clothes that cover your knees and shoulders, what you will be treated to will certainly take your breath away. Explore the nooks and crannies of the shrine as depictions of stunningly carved figures of gods attempt to draw your attention towards the very core of the structure.

Mix adventure with laidback living along the beaches of Pasikudah and Kalkudah

If you’ve always dreamed of swimming or snorkelling in azure seas that hold an abundance of marine mammals to behold, then waste no time in heading for Pasikudah Beach as well as Kalkudah Beach which are found next to each other. While the former allows you to walk over its shallow coastline towards the ocean, the latter affords plenty of seclusions where you can even have your favourite author keep you company for the day under the shade of your trusty beach umbrella. In terms of reaching Batticaloa, you may factor in the possibility of booking from the Sri Lanka domestic flights provided by Cinnamon Air.