East Coast

The east coast of Sri Lanka is paradise found! It is peaceful and has been left very much untouched by tourism. If you are looking for a beach escape, then Sri Lanka’s east coast is for you. The culture is different to that found on the west coast, thanks to the Tamil and Muslim populations that live here. The scenery is dramatic and the beaches are stunning, often without a sole on them.

A much more off the beaten track beach destination, with no hustle and bustle of tourist crowds, it is quite the opposite of the western coast. The culture is different thanks to the Tamil and Muslim populations that live in towns and villages dotted along the coastline. A visit to this tranquil paradise of fine sandy beaches will leave you feeling completely relaxed.

The East coast, especially its most famous town, Trincomale, is filled with cultural enticement, colonial charm and historic religious monuments. Backed by tree-lined beaches and dazzling waters it is the perfect location to take part in some water sport activities, from snorkelling to swimming to diving, there is something for everyone. It is even known as an excellent spot for all kinds of whale watching.

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Set between jungle, lagoon and ocean, Jungle Beach is a stylish eco-retreat on Sri Lanka’s barely discovered East Coast. With its remote setting, treehouse feel and 4km of beach, it makes for a great escape when the rest of the country is monsoonal.

Jungle Beach

Passikudah, Sri Lanka

In the centre of Pasikudah Bay, an untouched area of white sands and blue sea on Sri Lanka’s east coast, Maalu Maalu offers a serene beach escape, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the island's cities and larger beach resorts.

Maalu Maalu

Passikudah, Sri Lanka

Uga Bay Resort is a 5 star, luxury hotel located on Passekudah bay, and exudes tropical-paradise charm. Untouched by tourism, the bay provides a serene beach getaway, and those in the know come here to get away and unwind.

Uga Bay

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

Explore the immaculately preserved remnants of Buddhism’s second city. Polonnaruwa is grouped in clumps between enticing forests so that you can walk and cycle your way around giant Buddhas and impressive temples that are over 1,000 years old.

Explore Polonnaruwa

Passikudah, Sri Lanka

This thrilling sea kayaking experiences is a popular choice from Uga Bay’s selection of ocean adventures. Take out two kayaks, which can fit 4 people, for an unforgettable group experience.

Uga Bay - Sea Kayaking

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Known as the ‘Rome of the Pagans of the Orient’, visiting Trincomalee will offer the chance to understand the myths and legends that surround the ancient temples and colonial forts in the area.

Jungle Beach - Visit Ancient Trincomalee

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Enjoy how peaceful the mangroves are at dusk and the slow pace of life that the fishermen here enjoy. There are plenty of endemic and migratory bird species to spot as well as lots of other wildlife in this pristine area.

Jungle Beach - Fishing in the Mangroves

Passikudah, Sri Lanka

Uga Bay offers lots of fun activities for guests of all ages, which can be easily arranged. Track leopards in Wilpattu, tour the countryside on a bike, or try your hand at cooking. Enjoy a whale watching trip and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

Uga Bay - Ideas for your free time

Gal Oya National Park, Sri Lanka

Enjoy a morning boat safari followed by a lovely picnic in the Gal Oya Park. This is a unique opportunity to observe the local wildlife from the stunning Gal Oya Lake.

Boat safari in Gal Oya Park

Balapitiya, Sri Lanka

Learn to craft your own mask in Balapitya using traditional tools at the workshop in Ambalangoda, supervised by an experienced master craftsman.

Mask Making in Balapitya

Passikudah, Sri Lanka

With kaleidoscopic marine life and miles of coral reefs and ancient shipwrecks, the ocean off Passikudah’s coast is an underwater adventure playground for snorkelers and divers alike.

Uga Bay - Snorkeling and Diving

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Jungle Beach is very relaxing but there are also plenty of fun activities on offer. Enjoy a bike tour of the local communities, help the children make kites, or enjoy a cooking class. You could even go whale watching or try scuba diving.

Jungle Beach - Ideas for your free time

Passikudah, Sri Lanka

Uga Bay’s sailing trips are ideal for those wanting to explore the ocean on Passikudah’s coast. Enjoy a thrilling trip out on the water that lasts for a minimum of 90 minutes.

Uga Bay - Sailing Trips

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Keen anglers will love the thrill of fishing out on the open ocean accompanied by a knowledgeable local fisherman. Equipment and refreshments are provided so you can make a brilliant morning of it.

Jungle Beach - Sea Fishing

Introducing Sri Lanka and the Maldives

Inspiration

Sri Lanka & Maldives Guidebook