Located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, Batticaloa (Tamil: Maddakkalappu; Sinhala: Madakalapuwa) stands as a prominent city in the Eastern Province and serves as its former capital. As the administrative capital of the Batticaloa District, it is a bustling commercial hub and the proud home of the Eastern University of Sri Lanka.

Positioned on an island, Batticaloa offers a unique coastal experience, situated 69 miles (111 km) south by southeast of Trincomalee. The city occupies a central position along the east coast, bordered by the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean.

Batticaloa’s name is derived from the Portuguese era, with its original Tamil name being “Matakkalappu,” translating to “Muddy Swamp.” The region boasts three picturesque lagoons: Batticaloa Lagoon, Valaichchenai Lagoon, and Vakari (Panichchankerni) Lagoon. Among these, Batticaloa Lagoon reigns supreme as the largest, stretching 56 km in length with an area of 162 square km.

The city’s sandy beaches, stretching along a 4 km shoreline, are a major draw for tourists and locals alike. From the serene Kallady beach to the pristine Pasikudah and Kalkudah beaches, Batticaloa offers a variety of coastal experiences. Pasikudah, in particular, is renowned for its bay protected from the ocean, featuring a flat and sandy bed extending up to 150 to 200 meters from the shore.

One of Batticaloa’s unique attractions is its “singing fish,” believed to be shellfish that emit musical notes, adding to the region’s mystical charm. Additionally, remnants of the Veddahs, or wild men of the wood, lend an air of mystery and intrigue to the district.

With its rich natural beauty, diverse attractions, and untapped potential, Batticaloa holds significant promise for the development of tourism-related industries. As a destination teeming with cultural heritage and natural wonders, Batticaloa invites travelers to explore its captivating landscapes and discover the enchanting allure of Sri Lanka’s eastern coast.