Things To Do
in Batticaloa
Batticaloa is a coastal city located in the eastern part of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches and lagoons. The city has a rich cultural heritage with influences from various ethnic groups such as Tamils, Muslims, and Sinhalese. Batticaloa is also famous for its historic Kallady Bridge, which is one of the longest in Sri Lanka.
The city is a popular destination for tourists seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and water-based activities.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk along the beautiful sandy beaches of Batticaloa. Enjoy the sunrise while sipping a fresh coconut drink.
Visit the historic Batticaloa Lighthouse and discover its rich maritime heritage. Take some time to swim or sunbathe on the beach afterward.
Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local beachfront restaurant. Watch the sunset over the ocean for a perfect end to your day.
Begin with a visit to the Batticaloa Fort, a historical site rich in colonial history. Take a guided tour to learn about its strategic importance.
Explore the local market and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Batticaloa. Sample traditional snacks and interact with the friendly locals.
Attend a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and learn more about the region's traditions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Beautiful landscapes and coastal areas, including pristine beaches.
- Diverse wildlife and natural reserves for ecotourism.
- Warm and welcoming local communities.
- Opportunities for water sports and fishing due to proximity to the ocean.
- Growing infrastructure and tourism facilities.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as flooding and tsunamis.
- Limited accessibility and connectivity to other major cities.
- Economic challenges and disparities in development.
- Potential for political tension and historical conflicts impacting stability.
- Environmental issues, including pollution and habitat destruction.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare and educational facilities.
Best Activities in Batticaloa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bicycle ride along the scenic Kallady Bridge, which offers stunning views of the lagoon and surrounding area.
Relax and enjoy the pristine beaches of Passikudah, known for its powdery white sand and clear, shallow waters, perfect for swimming and water sports.
Embark on a boat safari to explore the diverse ecosystem of the Batticaloa Lagoon, home to a variety of bird species, mangrove forests, and local fishing communities.
For surfing enthusiasts, a visit to Arugam Bay is a must. This popular surfing destination offers great waves and a lively beach culture.
Explore the historic Batticaloa Fort, which dates back to the Dutch colonial period, and stroll along the ramparts for panoramic views of the city and lagoon.
Tours
Uncover the best of Batticaloa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Batticaloa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the lagoon and the surrounding area
Provides a great vantage point for capturing scenic views of the coast and the surrounding landscape
Known for its beautiful sandy beach and clear blue waters, ideal for stunning coastal photographs
Food in Batticaloa
Batticaloa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional seafood broth made with a variety of local ingredients including crab, prawns, cuttlefish, and a mix of spices. It is a must-try dish for seafood enthusiasts. Kool can be savored at local eateries and beachside restaurants such as Riviera Resort.
Must-Try!
Derived from the sap of the Palmyrah palm, this local alcoholic beverage offers a unique tasting experience. It can be enjoyed at toddy taverns situated in and around Batticaloa, such as the ones lining the Kallady Bridge.
Batticaloa is renowned for its delicious milk tea. The local tea stalls and 'hotels' (small eateries) offer authentic milk tea with a distinct flavor. The tea stall near the Batticaloa Clock Tower is a popular spot to savor this refreshing drink.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Batticaloa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pettah Market is a bustling hub of activity, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Visitors can sample local snacks like 'kothu roti' and 'wadai' while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The market is an ideal destination to explore local street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Batticaloa, it is important to greet others with respect, particularly when addressing elders or people in positions of authority. The customary greeting is to place your hands together as if in prayer and offer a slight bow while saying 'Ayubowan'.
Batticaloa is a diverse region with a significant Hindu and Muslim population alongside the majority Buddhist community. It is important to respect the religious customs and practices of others, such as removing footwear when entering temples and mosques, and being mindful of dress codes and dietary restrictions during religious festivals.
There is a strong emphasis on social hierarchy and respect for authority figures in Batticaloa. It's important to be mindful of hierarchical structures and show deference to elders, community leaders, and those in authority positions. Paying attention to these dynamics helps to demonstrate sensitivity and respect for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Batticaloa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Batticaloa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. It is not expected in most local establishments such as restaurants, cafes, or taxis. However, in some upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be added to the bill, in which case tipping is not necessary.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Batticaloa. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting Batticaloa. ATMs are available in the city center, but it's best to plan ahead for cash needs.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Batticaloa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Batticaloa, with warm and sunny weather. Perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. However, it can get quite hot and humid.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity during this season. While it may not be ideal for outdoor activities, it can be a good time to experience the lush greenery and cultural events in the area.
Batticaloa at Night
Hiking in Batticaloa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Batticaloa, this historical site offers scenic views and a peaceful environment for hiking enthusiasts.
A beautiful area with paths along the lagoon, perfect for nature walks and enjoying birdwatching.
A forested area ideal for hiking, with trails that allow exploration of the local flora and fauna.
A bit further away but offers hiking opportunities along the coastline and beautiful views of the ocean.
While primarily a beach destination, there are hiking trails along the sandy shores and nearby coastal areas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Batticaloa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Batticaloa by plane.
Located in Katunayake, approximately 280 km from Batticaloa, this is the main international airport in Sri Lanka, serving many international flights.
Situated in Mattala, approximately 230 km from Batticaloa, this airport serves as a secondary international gateway to Sri Lanka.
Located in Trincomalee, roughly 100 km from Batticaloa, this airport offers limited international services and is closer to the eastern coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Sinhala people are the largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka, primarily found in the southwestern regions but present in various areas, including Batticaloa.
Tamils are the predominant ethnic group in Batticaloa, with a rich cultural heritage and a majority presence in the Eastern Province.
The Muslim community, comprising mainly Moors, has a significant presence in Batticaloa and contributes to the region's cultural diversity.
The Burgher community, descendants of European colonists, is a small but notable demographic group in Sri Lanka, including Batticaloa.
This includes smaller ethnic groups and communities, such as Veddhas and people from different backgrounds, but they constitute a minor fraction of the population.
The Soul of Batticaloa
Discover the essence of Batticaloa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Batticaloa, with many local clubs and schools participating in competitions.
Football is widely played among youth, with many informal and organized tournaments held throughout the year.
Volleyball is a favored sport in the community, often played on beaches and in schools, creating a spirited local culture.
Badminton enjoys popularity in Batticaloa, with many schools and recreational clubs offering facilities for players.
Athletics events are commonly supported, especially among schools, where students compete in various track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Batticaloa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Sri Lankan cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, some restaurants and cafes in Batticaloa offer vegetarian and vegan options. Places like Veeramathi Restaurant and Shanthi Inn serve delicious vegetarian dishes and cater to dietary preferences.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at select restaurants in Batticaloa. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly, and establishments like Riviera Resort and Harbour Hut Restaurant are known to accommodate such requests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Batticaloa with these cultural adventures.
