During my recent travels along the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, I had the chance to visit the Kawdagala Temple, a place where history, spirituality, and nature beautifully converge. Located on the border of the Batticaloa District within the Vakarai Divisional Secretariat, this ancient temple offers much more than just a glimpse into the past—it provides a profound sense of peace and spiritual reflection. What struck me most about Kawdagala Temple was how it seamlessly connects Sri Lanka's ancient Buddhist heritage with its serene natural surroundings, making it a hidden gem for those seeking cultural insight and tranquility. First Impressions: A Temple Surrounded by Nature The…

Visiting Kalkudah Beach was like discovering a well-kept secret on Sri Lanka's east coast. Just a short distance from the bustling Pasikuda Beach, Kalkudah offers a completely different vibe—peaceful, secluded, and untouched. As I arrived, the 4km stretch of soft sand, lined with swaying palm trees, immediately set a tone of tranquillity. It felt like I had the whole beach to myself. A Serene Escape The calm atmosphere here is incomparable. Unlike Pasikuda, which buzzes with activity, Kalkudah remains quiet and serene. Small resorts dot the surroundings, but the lack of crowds makes it feel like a private paradise. The…

Visiting Passikudah Beach was one of the most peaceful and refreshing experiences of my travels in Sri Lanka. Located on the eastern seaboard near Kalkuda, about 35 kilometres from Batticaloa, this beach had always been on my list. When I arrived, I was greeted by the sea-green blue waters stretching endlessly under the bright tropical sun. The calm waves, golden sands, and palm-fringed coastline made it feel like I had stumbled upon paradise. The Stunning Beach and Shallow Waters Its incredibly shallow bay sets Passikudah apart from other beaches I’ve visited. I was amazed at how I could walk far into…

Lighthouses have always fascinated me. They stand tall and unyielding, guiding seafarers through dark and treacherous waters. So, when I had the opportunity to visit the Batticaloa Lighthouse, also known as the Muttuwaran Lighthouse, I knew it would be a unique experience. The Road to the Lighthouse Located just 5 kilometres from Batticaloa town, reaching the lighthouse was a scenic drive along the coast, passing fishing villages, palm-fringed roads, and the tranquil waters of the Batticaloa Lagoon. As I approached the site, the first thing that caught my eye was the pristine white tower, standing tall against the blue sky—a…

Standing on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, I found myself gazing at the majestic Batticaloa Fort, a structure that has stood the test of time, witnessing centuries of colonial conquests and power struggles. The journey to the fort was itself an adventure—passing through the peaceful lagoons of Batticaloa, I could already sense the deep historical significance of this place. As I walked through its stone walls, I was transported back to the 17th century, imagining the Portuguese soldiers who once guarded this stronghold, only to lose it to the Dutch in 1638. This was not just a monument but…

My visit to Batticaloa wouldn’t have been complete without exploring the renowned Kallady Bridge, a piece of living history on the picturesque island of Sri Lanka. Known as the Lady Manning Bridge during colonial times, this structure holds the title of Sri Lanka’s oldest and longest iron bridge, standing proudly as a reminder of a bygone era. A Walk Through History The bridge, built by the British during their colonial rule, is a marvel of early engineering. Its construction was meticulous, and its iron framework speaks to the craftsmanship of the time. Originally named after Lady Manning, the wife of…