Batticaloa has only recently started to attract tourists again with the colonial buildings, Old Dutch Fort and the vibrant blue and white St Mary’s Cathedral.

Kallady Bridge connects the old town with the town centre, crossing over the Batticaloa Lagoon and from April to September you can hire a boat to take you out to listen to the mysterious singing fish.

Although still recovering from the 2004 tsunami, Pasikudah Beach, south of Batticaloa, is a popular spot for wreck diving with the British Sergeant, a tanker sunk in 1942 and the wreck of HMS Hermes off shore. There are a number of dive shops and certified trainers in the area as well as sandy beaches, popular with families, and the Mariamman temple to visit.

Sri Lanka undiscovered

An essential guide to seeing Sri Lanka's non-touristy side

From ancient ruins to a vibrant and welcoming contemporary culture; from lazy afternoons on glorious beaches, to hikes through the rolling hills of tea country and wild elephant spotting in untouched national parks; Sri Lanka is a destination that truly has it all. Despite having its hard-won stability rocked by occasional political disputes, Sri Lanka's tourism infrastructure is developing in leaps and bounds. Hospitality is warm and abundant, transport is convenient, and accommodation – particularly in the independent boutique sector – is world-class...read more