East Coast
Pasikuda
The calm shallow bay
Overview
A long, very shallow bay protected by a reef, where the water stays calm and clear far out from the shore.
Pasikuda and neighbouring Kalkudah are known for one of the island's gentlest seas. In season you can wade a long way out in waist-deep water, which makes it especially popular with families.
Most accommodation is in a strip of resort hotels along the bay. It combines well with the Cultural Triangle, a few hours inland.
Highlights
- Swimming in calm, shallow water
- Relaxing resort days after a busy round trip
- Snorkelling and boat trips in good conditions
Practical travel notes
- Limited restaurants and shops outside the hotels.
- Around 2–2.5 hours by road from Polonnaruwa.
Season
Best from about April to September. Avoid the north-east monsoon from roughly November to January.
Content reviewed 21 October 2026. Practical details change — we confirm them when planning your trip.
Sample itineraries that include Pasikuda
10 days
Summer & the east coast in 10 days
Planned for the Swedish summer holidays: culture and elephants inland, then clear water and calm beaches on the east coast while the south-west has its monsoon.
Route: Kandy → Sigiriya → Trincomalee → Pasikuda
Price: Quotation required
Nearby destinations
East CoastTrincomalee
Clear water on the east coast
A natural harbour town with the clifftop Koneswaram temple, white beaches at Nilaveli and snorkelling at Pigeon Island.
2–4 nights
Cultural TrianglePolonnaruwa
A medieval royal city
Compact, well-preserved ruins of palaces, temples and the rock-carved Buddhas of Gal Vihara beside a large ancient reservoir.
Day visit – 1 night
Cultural TriangleMinneriya & Kaudulla
Where the elephants gather
National parks around ancient reservoirs where large herds of wild elephants come to graze, especially in the dry season.
Day visit – 1 night