8 Days / 7 Nights
East Coast Tour of Sri Lanka
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Beach & Pigeon Island
Nilaveli
About Nilaveli
Nilaveli is a long, quiet stretch of white-sand beach just north of Trincomalee, and the usual departure point for a short boat ride out to Pigeon Island National Park, one of the more accessible spots in Sri Lanka for snorkelling over coral reefs and reef sharks.
It's a calmer, less commercial alternative to the south coast's beach towns, in season during the dry months on the east coast rather than the west and south coast's calendar.
Quick facts
- Departure point for Pigeon Island National Park
- Reef snorkelling with a chance of reef sharks
- Located just north of Trincomalee
- East-coast dry season, opposite the south/west coasts
Getting there with a guide
We combine Nilaveli with Trincomalee's temples and harbour on an east-coast itinerary, timed for the region's dry months.
Map
Frequently asked questions
Is snorkelling at Pigeon Island good for beginners?
Yes — the reef is shallow and close to shore, though a life jacket and a guide are recommended for anyone not a confident swimmer.
How far is the boat trip?
A short ride, typically 15–20 minutes each way from Nilaveli beach.
Is Nilaveli quiet compared to the south coast?
Yes, noticeably — it has a fraction of the development and tourist traffic of towns like Unawatuna or Mirissa.
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8 Days / 7 Nights