Batticaloa Lighthouse

Batticaloa Lighthouse stands on Bar Road, at the point where Batticaloa lagoon opens to the Indian Ocean, near the Palameenmadu estuary. It was built by the British in 1913 and is about 28 metres tall. It is a simple, pleasant stop and a good spot for the evening.

What you see

The white tower is the main sight, with a small park around it. The setting is the real draw: lagoon on one side, the sandbar and sea on the other, with fishing boats and palms along the water. Whether you can climb the tower depends on the day, so ask on arrival. The area suffered during the civil war and the 2004 tsunami, but the lighthouse itself came through with little damage.

How long it takes

Thirty minutes to an hour. It is often combined with a visit to Batticaloa's Dutch fort and the Kallady bridge, known for the "singing fish" legend.

When to go

Late afternoon is best, when it is cooler and the light over the lagoon is soft. Local families come in the evening. The east coast is driest from about May to September.

Getting there

The lighthouse is about 5 km from Batticaloa town, a 15 to 20 minute ride. Pasikuda is about an hour's drive north.

Practical tips

• There is little shade during the day; bring water and a hat.
• Swimming at the river mouth can be dangerous because of currents.

Back at the beach, try water sports at Pasikudah. See things to do in Pasikuda and Pasikuda hotels.