It is not a secret that the coastal region in Sri Lanka is flamboyant. As Sri Lanka is an island, it has manifold beaches all around the island. Some are filled with rocks and some are fine as a pool which makes them perfect for surfing, snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, and whale watching. In that maritime region, Trincomalee is one of the most fascinating, a littoral city which drags you to the coast. Nilaveli and Uppuveli beaches situated alongside of Trincomalee are about the finest beaches you can find in Sri Lanka. Although Nilaveli beach is the most attractive place in Trincomalee, there are many other locations in this city which drags travelers’ attentions.
This is a briefing of the places where you can visit and enjoy this historical and diverse city.
Koneswaram Kovil
One of the five most devoted Hindu religious pilgrimage centers in Sri Lanka, the primary temple of Koneswaram complex is devoted to Lord Shiva. Other temples have been made for the gods Vishnu, Ganesh, Murugan and Ambal-Shakthi. The origin of this temple is believed to be before 400 BCE and the building is regarded as the greatest architectural creation of its age. Hence, the Koneswaram is considered as one of the most-visited Hindu temples in Asia.
Pigeon Island
Just about 1km away from the Nilaveli rivage, you can see a small, beautiful island filled with Blue Rock pigeons; the name is given because of these rock pigeons. The island consists of two parts; Large Pigeon Island and Small Pigeon Island. Due to a tsunami in 2004, many coral reefs have been destroyed in Sri Lanka. But, corals in this island were safeguarded and still remain as it was. Pigeon Island is famous for these fascinating coral reefs grown around the island. You can see those captivating corals with the boat services available in the Nilaveli beach.
Kanniya Hot Water Springs
On the way to Trincomalee city, you will find seven hot water springs converted into wells. The temperatures of each well is slightly different from each other. There’s a belief that the hot water in these wells have therapeutic, healing powers, hence, the wells are crowded everyday, especially in the mornings. The history of these wells goes back to King Ravana’s age, over 5,000 years back. Many Buddhist monuments were also found around these wells lately. Hence, it is believed that these wells were a part of a pond complex used by Buddhist monks of Velgam Vehera monastery.
Harbor
Trincomalee Harbor is considered as the fifth-largest natural harbor in the world. The harbor attracted almost every nationality of invaders in our country (Portuguese, French, Dutch, English, etc.) and there were many sea battles nearby to conquer the harbor. The harbor has 1630 hectares of water and the entrance of the harbor is guarded by two headlands.
The best timeframe to visit Trincomalee is during “Navratri and Sivarathri functions” and “Ther Festival” of Koneswaram Kovil. During this time the whole city embellishes with decorations and small shops with attractive monuments. You can also explore the Hindu culture in Sri Lanka by visiting during that time.
Copyright © 2015 by the Dauntless Jaunter Travel Site. This article was written by Noorani and originally published on dauntlessjaunter.com.
