While Pasikuda is a perfect destination for sun worship and water sports, the surrounding area is rich with history, culture, and unique natural wonders waiting to be explored. Just a short journey from your beachfront resort lies the bustling, historic heart of the East Coast: Batticaloa.

A day trip allows you to peel back the layers of local life, colonial history, and ancient spirituality that define this beautiful part of Sri Lanka. Here are five essential day excursions to get you beyond the beach and into the authentic soul of the Eastern Province.

Kalkudah Beach: The Tranquil Twin

A mere whisper away from the lively resorts of Pasikuda, Kalkudah Beach offers a stark contrast in atmosphere. Separated by only a small headland, Kalkudah is a long, sweeping stretch of coastline known for its pure serenity and untouched, rustic charm.

This beach is less developed and significantly quieter than its famous neighbor, making it the perfect spot for quiet reflection, reading, or simply enjoying an uncrowded swim. The waters here are similarly calm, ideal for those seeking absolute tranquility. A gentle stroll along the coast at sunrise, watching local fishermen cast their nets, is a truly peaceful start to any day.

The Historic Batticaloa Dutch Fort

Journey approximately forty minutes south to the main town of Batticaloa to step back in time at the Batticaloa Dutch Fort. Built originally by the Portuguese in 1628, this imposing structure was later captured and fortified by the Dutch, then subsequently used by the British.

The fort stands proudly on an island in the lagoon, defined by its sturdy granite and coral construction and its four massive bastions. As you walk through the complex, which still houses government administrative offices today, you can explore the preserved ramparts, old colonial structures, and canons that once guarded the bay. The fort is a living testament to Sri Lanka's colonial past and its strategic importance as a trading post.

The Enigmatic Batticaloa Lagoon and Singing Fish

The Batticaloa Lagoon is a massive estuarine system that separates the mainland from the ocean and is a key feature of the district’s natural landscape. A boat ride on the lagoon is an essential day trip activity, offering views of mangrove forests, fishing villages, and local life along the banks.

The lagoon is famed for the unique phenomenon of the “singing fish.” During certain times of the year, particularly on clear, moonlit nights, a faint, rhythmic sound resembling plucked guitar strings can reportedly be heard emanating from the water near the Kallady Bridge. While the exact source is debated to be a type of fish or shellfish, the experience of trying to hear the lagoon’s natural melody is unforgettable.

The Ancient Kokkadicholai Thaanthonreeswarar Temple

For a deep dive into the region’s spiritual heritage, a visit to one of Batticaloa’s ancient Hindu temples is highly recommended. The Kokkadicholai Thaanthonreeswarar Kovil, a historic Shaivism temple, is one of the oldest and most significant shrines in the East.

The temple is an architectural marvel, featuring vibrant, complex facades, striking pastel coloured pillars, and magnificent sculptures of Hindu deities, most notably Lord Shiva. The temple complex is not just a place of worship but a focal point for the community, especially during the grand chariot festival held annually in mid August. Visiting offers a profound insight into the enduring culture and faith of the Tamil people in the Eastern Province.

Batticaloa Lighthouse and Kallady Bridge Walk

Combine a slice of colonial architecture with spectacular views by visiting the Batticaloa Lighthouse and taking a walk across the Kallady Bridge.

The Batticaloa Lighthouse, built in 1913, stands as a tall, white landmark near the lagoon’s mouth. While access to climb the tower may be restricted, the surroundings are scenic, making for great photographs, especially around sunset.

Nearby, the Kallady Bridge is a significant architectural structure connecting the two parts of Batticaloa city. Walking across the bridge gives you an excellent vantage point to appreciate the scale of the lagoon and observe daily life, from fishermen at work to local traffic moving between the city and the coast.