Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary: 8 Days (7 Nights)

mahaweli Tours & Holidays

Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary
8 Days (7 Nights) of Coastal Wonders

Yearning for sun-kissed beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural experiences? The Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary: 8 Days (7 Nights) is your ultimate guide to an unforgettable coastal adventure. During the east coast’s dry season (April-September), destinations like Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Passikudah, and Arugam Bay offer pristine shores and clear skies. Since 2009, Mahaweli Tours & Holidays, based in Kandy, has crafted exceptional Sri Lankan journeys. With 15+ years of expertise, we’ve designed this Sri Lanka east coast travel plan to showcase the best Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary 8 Days for foreign tourists. Dive into this immersive Sri Lanka east coast tour package and let’s plan your coastal escape!

Why the East Coast Is Perfect for an 8-Day Adventure

From April to September, the east coast enjoys its dry season (30°C-34°C, 50-100 mm rain, 5-7 rainy days), delivering warm, sunny days and calm seas, in contrast to the southwest’s monsoon. This Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary 8 Days captures the region’s diversity—Trincomalee’s snorkeling havens, Batticaloa’s cultural heritage, Passikudah’s tranquil beaches, and Arugam Bay’s surf culture. With 7-8 hours of daily sunshine and fewer crowds, it’s ideal for Sri Lanka east coast travel. Our Kandy-based team ensures your Trincomalee itinerary, Arugam Bay tour package, and more are seamlessly executed.

Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary: 8 Days at a Glance

This 8-day (7-night) itinerary explores Trincomalee as a base, with extended stays in Batticaloa, Passikudah, and Arugam Bay. It balances beaches, culture, adventure, and relaxation, tailored for the dry season’s optimal conditions and Mahaweli’s expert planning.

Tour Highlights

1. Scenic Drive from Colombo to Trincomalee –Journey through lush landscapes and coastal views.

2. Snorkeling & Marine Adventures in Pigeon Island – Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

3. Whale & Dolphin Watching in Trincomalee –Witness majestic marine giants in their natural habitat.

4. Historic Fort Fredrick & Koneswaram Temple Visit –Discover cultural and historical treasures.

5. Batticaloa Lagoon & Cultural Tour –Experience the charm of the eastern heritage.

6. Relaxation on Passikudah’s Pristine Beaches –Unwind on one of the world’s shallowest coastlines.

Tour Itinerary

Arrival in Colombo & Transfer to Trincomalee

Where: Land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and drive to Trincomalee (4.5-hour drive).
Weather: Sunny and warm (30°C-34°C), minimal rain (50-100 mm).
Why: Trincomalee’s dry climate and beaches launch your Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary 8 Days with coastal allure.
What to Do: Check into a beachfront resort and relax at Nilaveli Beach, soaking in a golden sunset.
Stay: Seaside hotel in Trincomalee (e.g., near Nilaveli or Uppuveli).
Mahaweli Tip: Our air-conditioned vehicles ensure a comfortable transfer, with an optional stop at Kanniya Hot Springs for a refreshing dip.

Trincomalee – Marine Adventures & Culture

Where: Trincomalee.
Weather: Warm and sunny (30°C-34°C), perfect for water activities.
Why: The dry season’s calm seas make Trincomalee a snorkeling and cultural hub, central to your Trincomalee itinerary.
What to Do:
- Morning: Snorkel at Pigeon Island National Park, exploring coral reefs and tropical fish.
- Afternoon: Visit Koneswaram Temple, a sacred Hindu site with ocean views, and Fort Frederick for historical insights.
- Evening: Dine on fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant in Uppuveli.
Stay: Same Trincomalee resort.
Mahaweli Tip: We arrange snorkeling gear and guided temple tours, ensuring a vibrant start to your Sri Lanka east coast tour package.

Trincomalee – Whale Watching & Beach Relaxation

Where: Trincomalee.
Weather: Sunny (30°C-34°C), ideal for marine tours.
Why: Trincomalee’s marine biodiversity shines, offering whale-watching adventures for your Sri Lanka east coast travel.
What to Do:
- Morning: Join a whale-watching tour to spot blue whales and dolphins.
- Afternoon: Lounge at Marble Beach or swim at Uppuveli Beach.
- Evening: Enjoy a beachside barbecue or explore Trincomalee’s night market.
Stay: Same Trincomalee resort.
Mahaweli Tip: Our expert guides time whale-watching tours for optimal sightings, enhancing your best Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary 8 Days.

Trincomalee to Batticaloa – Cultural Exploration

Where: Drive to Batticaloa (2.5-hour drive).
Weather: Dry and sunny (31°C-34°C), with rare brief showers.
Why: Batticaloa’s cultural landmarks and lagoon add depth to your Sri Lanka east coast travel.
What to Do:
- Morning: Visit Batticaloa Fort, a 17th-century Dutch relic, and Kallady Bridge, known for the Singing Fish phenomenon (seasonal).
- Afternoon: Take a boat tour through Batticaloa Lagoon’s mangroves, spotting local wildlife.
- Evening: Relax at a waterfront restaurant with lagoon views.
Stay: Boutique hotel or guesthouse in Batticaloa.
Mahaweli Tip: We coordinate lagoon tours and cultural visits, tailoring your Batticaloa experience for your Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary 8 Days.

Batticaloa to Passikudah – Beach Bliss

Where: Drive to Passikudah (1-hour drive).
Weather: Sunny and warm (31°C-34°C), perfect for beach relaxation.
Why: Passikudah’s shallow, turquoise waters offer a serene escape, ideal for your Sri Lanka east coast tour package.
What to Do:
- Morning: Swim or kayak in Passikudah Beach’s calm, crystal-clear waters.
- Afternoon: Try paddleboarding or relax under beach umbrellas with a tropical drink.
- Evening: Enjoy a beachfront dinner featuring local seafood curries.
Stay: Beach resort in Passikudah.
Mahaweli Tip: We recommend top Passikudah resorts and arrange water activities, ensuring a tranquil day on your Sri Lanka east coast travel journey.

Passikudah to Arugam Bay – Surf & Culture

Where: Drive to Arugam Bay (2.5-hour drive).
Weather: Dry and sunny (31°C-34°C), great for surfing and exploration.
Why: Arugam Bay’s world-class surf breaks and laid-back vibe are highlights of your Arugam Bay tour package.
What to Do:
- Morning: Surf at Main Point or Peanut Farm, with beginner-friendly waves in the dry season.
- Afternoon: Visit Muhudu Maha Viharaya, an ancient Buddhist temple by the sea, and Kumana National Park for birdwatching (optional).
- Evening: Chill at a beachfront café, soaking in Arugam Bay’s bohemian atmosphere.
Stay: Eco-lodge or guesthouse in Arugam Bay.
Mahaweli Tip: We connect you with surf instructors and park guides, customizing your Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary 8 Days for adventure.

Arugam Bay – Surfing & Local Vibes

Where: Arugam Bay.
Weather: Sunny (31°C-34°C), ideal for beach and cultural activities.
Why: A full day in Arugam Bay deepens your Arugam Bay tour package with surfing and local charm.
What to Do:
- Morning: Take a surf lesson or ride waves at Whiskey Point.
- Afternoon: Explore Pottuvil Lagoon by kayak or visit Okanda Temple, a serene coastal shrine.
- Evening: Join a beach party or relax with live music at a local bar.
Stay: Same Arugam Bay accommodation.
Mahaweli Tip: Our team arranges kayaking and cultural stops, ensuring a vibrant Arugam Bay experience for your Sri Lanka east coast travel.

Arugam Bay – Surfing & Local Vibes

Where: Drive back to Colombo (6-hour drive) for your flight from CMB.
Weather: Sunny in Arugam Bay (31°C-34°C); possible showers in Colombo (200-300 mm).
Why: Conclude your coastal adventure with a scenic drive and optional Colombo highlights.
What to Do:
- Morning: Visit Panama Village near Arugam Bay for rural charm and traditional breakfast.
- Afternoon: Stop in Colombo for souvenir shopping at Pettah Market or a quick visit to Gangaramaya Temple (indoor option if rainy).
Mahaweli Tip: We ensure a timely transfer to CMB, with flexible stops to suit the weather, completing your best Sri Lanka East Coast Itinerary 8 Days.

Airport pick up and drop off
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Driver/guide
Free Wi-Fi
Air-conditioned vehicle

Drinks
Lunch
Food and drinks
Entry Tickets to the Attractions