BATTICALOA
Batticaloa, often called the “Land of the Singing Fish,” is a serene coastal district on Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. It is defined by its vast lagoon, unspoiled beaches, and a unique cultural heritage shaped by Tamil, Muslim, and Portuguese influences.
This region offers a tranquil alternative to the bustling south, renowned for its golden sands, fresh seafood, and distinctive colonial history. It is a place of deep spiritual significance and quiet, natural beauty.
Most Popular Attractions
Batticaloa City Core & Lagoon:
Batticaloa Fort: A small but historically significant fort built by the Portuguese in 1628, later captured by the Dutch and then the British.
Kallady Bridge & Singing Fish: The main bridge connecting the city to the beaches, famous for the mysterious “singing” sound heard from the lagoon waters beneath it on clear nights.
Batticaloa Lagoon: The dominant geographical feature, stretching for miles and perfect for boat rides, birdwatching, and fishing.
Gandhi Park: A small, well-maintained public park in the city center, a popular spot for relaxation.
St. Mary’s Cathedral: A beautiful and significant Catholic church in the heart of the city, reflecting the area’s strong Christian presence.
Puliyanthivu: The island where the old city center is located, surrounded by the lagoon, containing the fort and main civic buildings.
Batticaloa Gate (Muhathuwaram): The point where the lagoon meets the sea, an important local landmark and fishing spot.
Lady Manning Bridge (Old Kallady Bridge): The original bridge that first connected the mainland to the city, offering nostalgic views of the lagoon.
Coastal & Beach Attractions:
Passekudah Bay: A stunning bay famous for its shallow, calm, and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and safe water sports.
Kalkudah Beach: A long, beautiful stretch of beach located right next to Passekudah, offering a more rustic and quiet experience.
Valaichchenai Beach: A significant fishing harbor and beach area, providing an authentic look into the local coastal life and activities.
Unnichchai Tank: A large irrigation reservoir located inland, excellent for spotting local and migratory birds.
Mavadivembu Beach: A peaceful, less-developed beach area, perfect for tranquil walks and enjoying the sunrise.
Culture, Heritage & Modern Sites:
Auliya Mosque, Kattankudy: A significant and beautifully designed mosque in the neighboring town of Kattankudy, a major center for the region’s Muslim community.
Kokkadichcholai Hindu Temple: A historic and revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, reflecting the deep Tamil cultural roots in the region.
Thiruchendoor Murugan Temple, Koddaimunai: A prominent and colorful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, a major site for local worship and festivals.
Batticaloa Lighthouse (Kallar): A historic lighthouse located south of the city, offering panoramic views of the coast and sea.
Batticaloa Museum: A small but insightful museum showcasing the region’s history, culture, and ancient artifacts.
Sri Mangalarama Viharaya: A well-known Buddhist temple in the city, representing the Sinhalese community in the area.
Eravur Lagoon and Paddy Fields: The surrounding agricultural land offers picturesque views of rice cultivation and a chance to observe rural life.
Vavunathivu Island: A scenic island in the lagoon, accessible by ferry, offering peaceful natural surroundings.
Activities & Experiences
Visit the Batticaloa Lagoon: Go on a relaxing boat ride or kayak trip on the lagoon, the heart of the region, and try to listen for the famous “Singing Fish” near the Kallady Bridge (best heard on a quiet, moonlit night).
Explore the Batticaloa Fort: Walk through the historic Dutch Fort, built in 1628, which now houses government offices. Explore its walls and cannons, and enjoy the views of the lagoon entrance.
Relax at Kallady Beach: Enjoy the quiet, golden sands of Kallady Beach, which offers a peaceful atmosphere and views of the lighthouse. It’s a great spot for an early morning walk.
Dive or Snorkel the Shipwrecks: Batticaloa’s coast is home to several historic shipwrecks, including the HMS Hermes, the first aircraft carrier sunk by air power in World War II. Local dive operators offer trips to these sites.
Visit the Batticaloa Lighthouse: Climb the historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast, the lagoon, and the surrounding fishing villages.
Tour Local Paddy Fields: Take a bicycle or tuk-tuk tour through the lush, vibrant green paddy fields that dominate the landscape outside the main town, witnessing local agricultural life.
Discover Local Hindu Temples (Kovil): Visit one of the beautiful and colorful Kovils, such as the Mamangeswaram Temple, to witness the vibrant architecture and potentially a local ritual or festival.
Cycle to Rural Villages: Rent a bicycle and explore the causeways and small roads that connect the islands and villages within the lagoon, interacting with local fishermen and farmers.
Sample Fresh Seafood: Head to a local restaurant or beachside shack to enjoy the region’s specialty: freshly caught lagoon prawns, crab, or ocean fish prepared with local spices.
Learn About the Local Culture: Visit the Batticaloa Gate and the Gandhi Park, and explore the Batticaloa Museum to learn about the region’s history, the impact of the Tsunami, and the unique cultural blend of Tamil and European influences.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan Tamil cuisine, focusing on dishes like satti sorru (clay pot rice), rasam, or a spicy lagoon crab curry.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-tuks are Ubiquitous: Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient way to get around the town and its immediate surroundings. Always agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, or use a meter if available.
Buses for Long Distances: The Batticaloa bus station connects the city with major destinations across Sri Lanka (e.g., Colombo, Kandy, Trincomalee). Local buses are very affordable but can be crowded.
Train Access: Batticaloa is the terminus of the Eastern Railway Line, connecting it to Colombo via Maho. It is a scenic, slow journey and a relaxing way to arrive or depart, especially the overnight sleeper.
Bicycles for Local Exploration: For exploring the lagoon causeways, nearby beaches, and rural paddy fields, renting a bicycle is highly recommended. The terrain is largely flat.
Kallady Bridge Access: The iconic Kallady Bridge (also known as Lady Manning Bridge) is a key landmark. The easiest way to visit the fort or the lighthouse is by a short tuk-tuk ride or a pleasant cycle across the bridge.
Modesty is Key: Sri Lankan culture is conservative. When visiting temples (Kovils or Buddhist Viharas), ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. You will also need to remove your shoes and hats before entering.
Food and Hospitality: Batticaloa is known for its incredible fresh seafood and rich, spicy Tamil cuisine. Accepting hospitality (a cup of tea or a snack) if offered by a local is a gesture of respect.
The Singing Fish: The legend of the “Singing Fish” is real, though scientists debate its exact cause (likely small fish or shellfish). The sound is a faint, harmonic hum, best heard near the Kallady Bridge or other points on the lagoon, using an oar dipped into the water as a listening device, around dusk or on a quiet night.
Language: The main language spoken in this area is Tamil, with Sinhalese spoken by a minority. English is understood in hotels and major tourist spots. Learning a few phrases, like Nandri (Thank you), will be greatly appreciated.
Timing Your Visit: The Eastern coast of Sri Lanka has a different monsoon season than the South/West. The best weather is typically from April to September, with the main monsoon season from October to January.
Hidden Gems:
- The Paperless Bank: Visit the area around the Kallady Bridge to see the fishermen’s local “bank”—a system where they use unique tokens (kettu) instead of cash to trade goods and services with specific vendors.
- Thoppigala (Baron’s Cap): For a more challenging hike and historical interest, this rock fortress inland offers a fantastic view and was a significant location during the civil war.
- The Causeway to Navaladi: Take a tuk-tuk or bike ride along one of the long causeways across the lagoon, like the one to Navaladi, to witness stunning sunset views and local fishing boats returning home.
Top Restaurants
Pandi’s Rice & Curry Hut [$5-$10] – A humble, essential local spot known for its incredibly authentic, generous portions of rice and curry, specializing in Eastern-style fish or prawn curry.
Aachi’s Kitchen [$5-$10] – Extremely popular among residents for its superb, freshly prepared pittu (steamed rice and coconut log) served with hot gravy and traditional curries.
Hotel Ajantha [$5-$15] – A classic, non-fancy, local vegetarian restaurant renowned for its excellent South Indian-style dosas, idlis, and vadai, served with flavorful sambar and chutneys.
Vasantha Cool Bar & Meals [$5-$10] – Don’t let the name fool you; this is a local institution for incredibly fresh, authentic Eastern Lankan breakfast items and quick, affordable short eats.
Thenga Mottu Corner [$5-$10] – A simple roadside stall, highly praised by locals for its unique and perfectly prepared murunga (drumstick) curry and paratha.
Mee-Sawan [$10-$20] – Known for its authentic Sri Lankan Kottu Roti made with fresh ingredients, specializing in a spicier, Eastern-influenced version.
Kavitha Bakers [$5-$10] – Beyond baked goods, this spot is a local go-to for savory short eats like fish patties, rolls, and vegetable rotis, perfect for a quick, non-touristy snack.
The Bridge View Tuck Shop [$5-$10] – Located near the famous Kallady Bridge, this small shop is essential for an authentic Batti thosai (dosa) and sweet, strong Ceylon tea.
Saraswathy Vegetarian Restaurant [$5-$10] – A purely local vegetarian favorite, famous for its cheap, filling, and delicious lunch packets and thali (set meal).
Eelam Delight [$10-$15] – A no-frills local spot that serves traditional Jaffna-style and Batticaloa-style crab curry, known for its intense spices and freshness.
New Star Hotel [$5-$10] – A long-standing local eatery offering a reliable range of Sri Lankan and Tamil staples, often featuring excellent daily specials focused on fresh local produce.
Subaraj’s Rice [$5-$10] – A hidden gem known only to locals for its lunch packets featuring unique green-leaf curries and well-seasoned dry fish preparations.
Golden Fish & Chips [$5-$15] – While named ‘Fish & Chips,’ this locally adored spot actually serves fantastic, freshly fried whole fish, Eastern-style cutlets, and deviled seafood.
Suriya’s Mess [$5-$10] – A true local “mess” (basic eatery) favored for its robust meat curries—especially mutton—and unlimited rice and vegetable curries.
V.P. Samosa Stall [$2-$5] – A small, unassuming street vendor renowned for making what locals claim are the best, spiciest, and most generously filled samosas in the region.
Shanthi’s Kitchen [$10-$15] – A clean, family-run business famous for its traditional, slow-cooked Eastern-style beef curry and soft, oil-brushed parathas.
King’s Kottu [$5-$10] – A late-night spot that has perfected the art of making crunchy, flavorful kottu roti, a staple street food, with a focus on local spices.
Amirthakali Fish Market Eatery [$10-$20] – A small stall near the Amirthakali market where you can pick your own fresh catch and have it immediately cooked Eastern-style (curry or fried).
Thoppigala Pothu [$5-$10] – Known specifically for its unique pothu (a type of flatbread/dosa) served with fiery pol sambol (coconut relish) and lentil curry.
New Rest House Canteen [$5-$10] – An old-school eatery offering traditional Sri Lankan desserts like wattalappan (custard) alongside savory breakfast and lunch items.
Kallady Fried Chicken (Local Version) [$5-$10] – A favorite with local youth, serving highly-seasoned, small-batch fried chicken pieces with a distinct, spicy local marinade.
Vasanthan Bakery [$5-$10] – Go here not for cakes, but for the savory Kimbula Banis (crocodile bun) and Maalu Paan (fish bun) which are local lunch pack staples.
Meera’s Paratha Spot [$5-$10] – A very small, often crowded spot famous for serving soft, multiple-layered parathas fresh off the griddle with a rich gravy.
Valaichchenai Fishing Harbour Stalls [$15-$30] – A cluster of impromptu eateries where fishermen sell and cook their daily catch, specializing in jumbo prawns and lagoon crabs.
Coastal Catch [$15-$25] – A simple, open-air restaurant by the beach known for grilling whole fish like seer or snapper, marinated only with salt, chili, and lime.
Lagoon View Eatery [$10-$20] – Located right next to the Batticaloa lagoon, this spot is famous for its lagoon shrimp preparation, either deviled or in a white coconut curry.
Sea Breeze Hut [$10-$20] – An unpretentious, local favorite specializing in freshly caught cuttlefish and squid, often stir-fried with chili and onions (devilled style).
Prawn Curry Master [$15-$25] – A small, well-regarded establishment that dedicates its menu almost entirely to different preparations of large, locally sourced lagoon prawns.
Kaluthavalai Crab Stall [$20-$35] – A vendor/small shop in Kaluthavalai known across the region for its premium, freshly cooked mud crab, sold by weight.
Ocean Pearl [$15-$25] – A slightly more established spot with a reputation for excellent seafood soup and a hearty fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry).
Fisherman’s Net Kitchen [$15-$25] – Offers the unique experience of having local seafood cooked in a traditional clay pot, locking in the natural flavors.
Coastal Grill & Curry [$10-$20] – Known for its extremely fresh tuna curry and serving it with string hoppers (steamed rice noodles).
Mudaliyar Street Fish Fry [$5-$10] – A street-side operation, only open in the evenings, serving small, crispy fried fish (like sprats) that are excellent with beer (if you can find it).
Puttu Kadai [$5-$10] – Dedicated to the steamed delicacy Puttu (rice flour and grated coconut) served in bamboo pieces, a favorite breakfast or dinner item.
Murukku & Mixture Vendor [$2-$5] – Look for the vendors selling fresh, crunchy Murukku (fried savory snack) and Mixture (a blend of savory, crunchy items) from large jars.
Ulundu Vadai Corner [$2-$5] – A busy roadside stall famous for making Ulundu Vadai (savory doughnut made of lentil flour) fresh and hot all day, served with coconut chutney.
Kothu Roti Specialist [$5-$10] – Focuses exclusively on Kothu Roti, allowing customization with unique additions like spicy lagoon oysters or dried fish.
Sunda (Boiled Chickpeas) Cart [$2-$5] – A mobile cart, often near temples or bus stands, selling warm, seasoned sunda (boiled chickpeas or peanuts) in newspaper cones.
Jaffna Hopper Hut [$5-$10] – A casual joint specializing in all types of hoppers—plain, egg, and the rare kiri appa (milk hoppers)—made on request.
Dosa Kiosk [$5-$10] – A small, dedicated vendor making various types of dosa, including masala dosa and the thick, spongy uthappam.
Thattu Vadai Shop [$2-$5] – Known for selling crispy, plate-sized Thattu Vadai (a crunchy rice flour snack) seasoned with curry leaves and chilies.
Hotel East Lagoon [$15-$25] – A local hotel (not high-end resort) restaurant that offers a mix of local curry and rice alongside surprisingly good Chinese-Sri Lankan fusion dishes.
The Turkish Grill [$15-$25] – A unique spot offering Eastern-style kebabs and wraps, with spices and marinades adapted to the Sri Lankan palate.
Italian Corner Batticaloa [$15-$25] – A humble local take on Western food, focusing on pizzas and pasta with Sri Lankan-sourced ingredients and a noticeable local twist in the seasoning.
Ceylon Biriyani House [$10-$20] – Specializes in the Sri Lankan Muslim-style Biriyani (a fragrant rice dish), served with either chicken, mutton, or egg, and a rich gravy.
Malaysian Food Point [$10-$20] – A small eatery that offers simple Malaysian-influenced dishes, such as Nasi Goreng and Mee Goreng, with very generous portions.
Indian Tandoor Delights [$15-$25] – Run by a local family, this spot makes a surprisingly good butter chicken and garlic naan, often drawing a crowd for dinner.
Seafood Fusion Grill [$15-$25] – Tries a modest approach to blending fresh Batticaloa seafood with international grilling techniques and sauces.
Arabian Night Shawarma [$10-$15] – A popular evening spot among younger locals, serving robust and flavor-packed shawarmas with local sauces and pickles.
The Noodle House [$5-$10] – Known for its quick service and large bowls of local-style fried noodles (chop suey style) with plenty of fresh vegetables and protein.
Waffles & More [$5-$10] – Primarily a dessert spot but also serves savory crêpes and pancakes with local fillings, a popular stop for a light evening snack.
The BBQ Pit Stop [$15-$25] – A small, open-air setup that serves marinated and grilled meat skewers, very popular with families on weekend evenings.
Hot Plate Corner [$10-$20] – Famous for serving dishes like hot-plate chicken or hot-plate beef, where the food is cooked and served sizzling on a cast-iron platter.
Juice World [$5-$10] – While mainly a juice bar, it’s a local hub that also offers light, healthy salads and fruit chaats (salads) made with local produce.
The Golden Bakery Cafe [$5-$10] – A slightly trendier local cafe offering strong coffee, sandwiches, and simple Western-style baked items alongside local short eats.
The Milk Bar [$5-$10] – Beloved for its ice cream sundaes and milkshakes, often featuring local fruit flavors like wood apple and mango.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Riviera Crab Cabana Bar: Located within the Riviera Resort in Kallady, this bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including local Lion Beer and Arrack-based drinks, to be enjoyed in open cabanas or on the waterfront seating area overlooking the lagoon.
The Dutch Bar: A must-visit local spot in the heart of Batticaloa, known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly staff. It’s a great place to sample local beers and classic cocktails, often featuring live music.
Sun Siyam Pasikudah Beach Bar: Situated directly on the beach in Pasikudah, this bar at the Sun Siyam resort offers an amazing view over the Indian Ocean. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a refreshing cocktail or local spirits with your feet in the sand.
Amaya Beach Passikudah Bar: Part of the Amaya Beach resort in Pasikudah, this venue provides a stylish, relaxed setting for enjoying drinks. It’s perfect for a sunset cocktail after a day at the beach.
Uga Bay – Pasikuda Bar: The bar at the elegant Uga Bay resort in Pasikudah offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a premium selection of spirits and mixed drinks, suitable for a refined evening.
The Calm Resort & Spa Bar: Located in Pasikudah, this hotel bar provides a serene environment to unwind. It’s known for its friendly service and a good selection of cocktails and local arrack mixes.
Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa Bar: Found in Pasikudah, this bar is housed within a beautiful, culturally-themed resort and offers a relaxed setting for a tropical drink.
Hotel Neithal Batticaloa Bar: Situated near the city center, this hotel bar is a good option for an easy, casual drink, offering a standard range of alcoholic beverages.
Newland Hotel Bar: Located in Kalkudah, close to the beach, this hotel bar offers a laid-back setting for guests and visitors to enjoy a beer or a simple mixed drink in a non-fussy environment.
Marina Beach Passikudah Bar: This resort bar in Pasikudah is a simple, pleasant spot to grab a drink, often appealing to those looking for a quiet evening.
Fort Park ARK Restaurant Bar: Found near the historic Batticaloa Fort, this restaurant and bar offers a convenient place to have a drink after visiting the local sites, though the focus is primarily on dining.
Sofa Beach Bar (Pasikudah): While less formal, this type of beachfront setting, often run by smaller guesthouses along the Pasikudah and Kalkudah coast, provides a classic, casual beach bar experience with simple cocktails and chilled beer.
Seafood Inn On The Bay Bar: Located on Beach Road in Pasikudah/Kalkudah, this spot is primarily a seafood restaurant but offers drinks to complement the meal in a setting close to the sea.
Mandela Cafe: Situated in Batticaloa town, while primarily a cafe, it is known for a social atmosphere and may offer non-alcoholic “mocktails” or be a popular pre/post-dinner gathering spot.
Riviera Resort Terrace Bar: An open-air section of the Riviera Resort in Kallady, perfect for enjoying a nightcap with a view of the stars and the calm lagoon.
Kaddaty: The premier and most recognized nightlife destination in the Batticaloa region, located near Prince Bridge Park in Puliyanthivu. It is a lively night club renowned for its pulsating energy, dazzling lights, and spacious dance floor, attracting both locals and tourists.
Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa Nightclub / Karaoke: This Pasikudah resort features a dedicated Nightclub space and Karaoke facilities, making it a reliable destination for a late-night party and dancing in a controlled resort environment.
The Calm Resort & Spa Karaoke: Known to offer Karaoke nights and themed events, providing a fun, interactive form of late-night entertainment and a place for guests to gather and socialize.
Amaya Beach Passikudah Live Music/Events: Although not a traditional club, large resorts like this often host themed nights, DJ sessions, or live music by the pool or on the beach, creating a club-like atmosphere for dancing and late-night drinks.
Sun Siyam Pasikudah Evening Entertainment: Like other major resorts, they organize evening entertainment programs that can involve beach parties, cultural shows, or music that extends into the night, encouraging late-night enjoyment.
Riviera Resort Private Events/Gatherings: This resort in Kallady, due to its size and setup, can host large private parties and has designated areas for music and dancing, often available for corporate or large tourist groups seeking a late-night club experience.
The Newland Hotel Event Space: This Kalkudah hotel, with its potential banquet facilities, may convert its space for special late-night events or parties during peak tourist season, offering a chance for dancing.
Marina Beach Passikudah Late-Night Lounge: Some resorts have a main common area or lounge that operates late, serving as a social hub with background music, which acts as a quieter late-night gathering spot.
Local Event Venues in Batticaloa Town: Outside of the resort zone, smaller, informal local venues or halls in the main Batticaloa town often host local parties or live band nights that provide a dancing experience primarily geared toward the local population.
Pasikudah Beach Parties (Seasonal/Informal): During peak season or holidays, occasional, informal beach gatherings with music may pop up along the Pasikudah/Kalkudah strip, offering a relaxed, open-air dancing alternative.