©
Shutterstock
Sri Lanka Travel Guide
©
Shutterstock
If you are looking for tranquility after you visit Sri Lanka’s numerous breathtaking temples, there is nothing better than relaxing on the beaches north of Trincomalee. There are no crowds, no parties, no noise. It is the perfect place to get away from the numerous tourists and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere.
1. Uppuveli's golden sand beach
There are only a couple of kilometres dividing Uppuveli and Trincomalee. You can take a scooter and the journey will take just a few minutes. In 2004, the village was destroyed by a tsunami and has been rebuilding itself ever since. After travelling around Sri Lanka, you will definitely fall in love with the peaceful beach. In the month of January while the south of Sri Lanka is flooded with travellers, Uppuveli is empty and quiet. You should take the time to walk towards the north of the bay where there is a superb lagoon inhabited by local fishermen. Wooden boats float on the water and around it are small huts crammed with families. Don't hesitate to cross the sea towards the rocky coast. If you want to soak a little bit of culture, there is a very charming and colourful small Hindu temple which you can visit.
2. Nilaveli and Pigeon Island
Nilaveli looks a lot like its younger sister, Uppuveli, but is a bit more developed. During my trip to Sri Lanka, huge hotel complexes were already being built at certain points along the beach. If you decide to relax on this beach you should also visit the Pigeon Island, which is a National Park. You can ask a fisherman in the village to take you there. We recommend going early in the morning or at the end of the afternoon if you want to be alone. The island is made up of two beaches and a small rocky hill. The scenery is incredible. The black tip reef sharks swim very close to the beach, so it is easy to see them. But don't be afraid, they are harmless as they only eat plankton. 
©Shutterstock
