The word hidden gem is not enough to describe Trincomalee as a holiday destination. It sits on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast, offering the peacefulness of pristine beaches and some of the great Hindu temples.
Tourists can enjoy the beach vibes, with water-based activities, and stay in a handful of beautiful resorts and hotels for a perfect holiday.
Trincomalee’s best places to stay are divided into three clear zones – Uppuveli Beach, Nilaveli Beach, and Trincomalee Town. Let’s see the best places and where to stay in Trincomalee in this guide in complete detail.
Trincomalee’s 3 Best Areas to Stay in
Wondering which area to stay in Trincomalee? Here’s a breakdown of the top three areas to stay in Trincomalee, and which one to select.
1. Uppuveli Beach
This is where tourists often end up, and for all the good reasons. It’s outside the city, and feels like its own little beach town, with multiple hotels, restaurants, and easy access to the ocean.
The area is best for first-time visitors and travelers who want a lively place yet a peaceful beach vibe. Tourists can easily get diving and snorkeling trips, and social backpacker stays.
Things to Do in Uppuveli Beach
- Start with taking a whale-watching tour; if you’re lucky, you can even spot blue whales.
- Visit Koneshwaram temple – a Hindu temple with breathtaking sea views.
- Go snorkeling at Pigeon Island to witness vibrant coral and reef sharks.
2. Nilaveli Beach
Are you looking for a quieter, laid-back beach location with fewer tourists? Then Nilaveli Beach is your place. It’s quieter and has multiple resort and stay options, with a calmer coastal feel.
The stay is perfect for family beach trips, couples, Pigeon Island day trips, and longer east coast holidays.
Things to Do in Nilaveli Beach
- Start with taking a boat ride to see dolphins, and if possible, you can get to spot whales too.
- Go to Pigeon Island National Park for snorkeling or diving, and get to experience the best of water-based activities.
- Forget your itinerary for an evening and go for a slow walk at the beach and witness one of the most majestic sunsets of your life.
3. Trincomalee City Center
Trincomalee city center is the cheapest place for budget travelers to stay in Trincomalee, or if you are staying for a short time. It’s not the usual beach town atmosphere many come for, but it does put you near markets, local restaurants, and transportation.
Things to Do in Trincomalee City
- Visit Trincomalee market, a good place to buy fresh fruit and get a taste of local life.
- Eat local street food like tasty Sri Lankan snacks such as kottu and roti.
- Take a tuk-tuk to Uppuveli or Nilaveli; even if you’re not staying at the beach, you might as well go take a look. The beach is only a short drive away!
How to Choose the Right Hotel in Trincomalee?
Based on your purpose of traveling, here’s how you can decide where to stay in Trincomalee –
1. First-time visitors
Most first-timers do better in Uppuveli or Nilaveli, with the town a convenient stop for the temple and fort. Uppuveli has more restaurants and has an easier walk-out beach feel; Nilaveli is calmer and closer to Pigeon Island.
2. Beach Lovers
Uppuveli is the most social beach; Nilaveli is the long quiet stretch, with a view of Pigeon Island, and Kuchchaveli is the most secluded. Choose your hotel not based on what kind of beach day you want, but on how busy a beach day you want.
3. Snorkel & Diving
Most dive centers are around Uppuveli, and Nilaveli is the natural jump-off point for Pigeon Island snorkeling. Check availability of operators, season, and if the hotel can arrange morning pickups.
4. Couples
Couples tend to prefer quieter beaches and resort or boutique properties. Of these, Kuchchaveli feels the most secluded, while Nilaveli and quieter ends of Uppuveli have easier access to restaurants and snorkeling.
5. People Traveling on Budget
Best value for money is in Uppuveli and around Trincomalee town in guesthouses. Read recent guest reviews for cleanliness, hot water, air conditioning, and how close the property really is to the beach you are looking for.
To sum it up for you –
- If you want beach access and accessible restaurants, go for Uppuveli. Uppuveli is the easiest east coast base for travelers wanting a sociable but relaxed beach feel, with cafés, dive centers and a mix of guesthouses and small resorts within walking distance of the sand.
- Choose Nilaveli for uncrowded beaches and access to Pigeon Island. Most Pigeon Island boats depart from Nilaveli, which has a longer and much calmer beach. It is suitable for families, couples, and travelers who intend to base their meals around the hotel.
- Choose Trincomalee Town if you want local convenience and sightseeing. The town is the most convenient base for Fort Fredrick, Koneswaram Temple, transport, and short stays. Not a beach base – expect a 15-25 min15- 25tuk ride to Uppuveli or Nilaveli
Where to Stay in Trincomalee?
Some hotels are just a place to drop your bags while you go out and see the sights. But Amaranthe Bay is the kind of place where you want to slow down and enjoy the stay itself.
The resort is located by the peaceful Pillaikulam Aru lagoon; it has a warm tropical environment, comfortable rooms, and lots of amenities to relax. Start your day with a view of the lagoon, enjoy an afternoon by the pool, and end the day with a quiet dinner at the perfect location.
What to Expect at Amaranthe Bay?
- A room to suit your mood: Choose from standard comfort rooms, Junior Suites, and Executive Suites. Junior Suites feature private balconies, lagoon views, and a private jacuzzi.
- Relax Stay: After a day of exploring Trincomalee, relax with Ayurvedic and Balinese treatments at the spa on site.
- Amazing meal with a view: Dine on Sri Lankan and Western food back at the resort or jazz up dinner a little with a meal on the floating deck over the lagoon.
- Extra Amenities: Enjoy the enormous resort with amenities like a pool, dining area, terrace, and outdoor space.
Amaranthe Bay is more than just a hotel room to sleep after a day of sightseeing. The resort itself is part of your Trincomalee journey.
Conclusion
Trincomalee is a destination that has something for every kind of traveller. Whether you want to spend your days by the beach, explore the city, and visit natural attractions, there is no shortage of options.
Read more about Tricomalee and things to do at – Tricomalee Travel Guide
And for those looking for a luxurious stay at one of the best properties, Amaranthe Bay perfectly fits into your itinerary. It gives a mix of comfort, natural vibe, and relaxation.
FAQs
1. What are some good places to stay in Trincomalee?
Trincomalee has some great accommodation options, with Amaranthe Bay being one of the most luxurious family resorts in Nilaveli. Other areas to select from include Uppuveli and Trincomalee city.
2. How many days do you need in Trincomalee?
Depending on your purpose of visit, around 3-4 days are needed in Trincomalee to cover common tourist places and dedicate a day for quiet beach relaxation.
3. When is the best time to visit Trincomalee?
The best time to visit Trincomalee is in the dry season, which is from May to September. The calm weather and seas offer amazing opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
4. Do I need a car/scooter in Trincomalee?
No, tuk-tuks are easily available in Trincomalee, and they are available at a very reasonable price. A scooter is recommended if you’re staying for 7+ days.
