After three lazy days floating in Pasikuda Bay, we got itchy feet and hired a driver for the day. That’s how we discovered Batticaloa, a lagoon city full of history, “singing fish” legends and some of the best seafood curry we ate in Sri Lanka.
Pasikuda is mostly about the beach, but there’s plenty to do nearby. Here are our favourite things to do in and around Pasikuda for Australian travellers. For beach tips, see our Pasikuda Beach guide.
1. Swim and snorkel in Pasikuda Bay
The calm, shallow bay is perfect for swimming, and the reef edge offers decent snorkelling on calm days. Many resorts rent gear or run guided snorkel trips.
2. Walk empty Kalkudah Beach
Just north of Pasikuda, Kalkudah is long, golden and often deserted. Go at sunrise for soft light and fishermen hauling in nets.
3. Explore Batticaloa Fort
About an hour from Pasikuda, Batticaloa’s small fort was built by the Portuguese and later taken over by the Dutch. Surrounded by lagoon water, it’s an atmospheric place to wander.
4. Cruise Batticaloa Lagoon
The lagoon is famous for its legendary “singing fish”, strange sounds sometimes heard under the Kallady Bridge on full-moon nights. Take a sunset boat trip past fishing villages and mangroves.
5. Visit Batticaloa Lighthouse
Standing where the lagoon meets the sea, the old lighthouse is a pleasant spot for views, especially in the late afternoon.
6. Try east-coast food
Batticaloa and the east coast have strong Tamil and Muslim culinary influences. Try crab curry, string hoppers with spicy sothi, and fresh lagoon prawns.
7. Go diving or fishing
Seasonal dive operators visit reefs and wrecks along the east coast, and deep-sea fishing trips can be arranged through some resorts. Check operators carefully for safety standards.
8. Combine with the Cultural Triangle
Pasikuda pairs perfectly with Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya, around 3 to 4 hours away. Many travellers end a cultural loop with a few days on the beach here.
Our tip: hire a driver for a half-day Batticaloa trip rather than relying on tuk-tuks. It’s comfortable, flexible and lets you stop for lunch by the lagoon.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Pasikuda?
Swimming, snorkelling, beach walks and resort water sports, plus day trips to Batticaloa’s fort, lagoon and lighthouse.
How far is Batticaloa from Pasikuda?
Around an hour by road, depending on traffic.
Is Pasikuda worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you want calm, safe swimming and a relaxing beach break between April and September.
Plan your Pasikuda stay
Need help planning? Contact our Melbourne team, or browse our guide to the best Pasikuda resorts.
