How to Travel and Explore Pasikuda - Guide to Discover the Best of Pasikuda during a Holiday
As a beach Mecca that was off-limits to travellers for over three decades, Pasikuda has made quite the comeback as a seaside hamlet for the masses. Offering beach lovers a tranquil and hidden oasis that's a world away from Sri Lanka's honeymoon beaches, Pasikuda also offers visitors access to some of the top water sports activities in the area. From timing the visit to choosing how to spend your time in the beach capital, here are some tips on uncovering the best of Pasikuda.
Pasikudah_beach_sri_lanka | img by Anuradha Dullewe Wijeyeratne via wikipedia commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
1. Time the Trip
Like most beach hubs in Sri Lanka, there are particular times of the year when Pasikuda is ideal for a beach getaway due to the prevalent weather conditions and what's accessible in terms of activities. Unlike the popular south coast beaches, which are picture perfect during the peak tourist season from December to March, the best time to head to Pasikuda is from July to August. This is when sunny skies are a given in this area and the chances of rain are at their lowest. The months between March and October are also suitable for a holiday in the area as the chances of rain are low. Avoid visiting Pasikuda during the rainy months from November to February as the inclement weather conditions are likely to make water sports and even swimming a dangerous prospect.
2. Hit the Main Highlights
Although the beaches are the main reason most visitors head to the coastline, there are a number of cultural attractions in Pasikuda that makes it more than a simple beach paradise. Some of these must-visit points of interest include the Kokkadicholai Hindu Temple, which is steeped in mystery and legend. Hosting a number of festivals each year, the temple is a big draw for Hindu devotees touring Pasikuda. History buffs should also enjoy a tour of the Batticaloa Dutch Fort built in 1628. Although it was constructed by the Portuguese, it was seized by the Dutch a decade later. The 28m high Batticaloa Lighthouse is another attraction that's within close driving range of Pasikuda.
3. Spend Time on Pasikuda Bay
Those based at Amaya Beach or any one of the other Pasikuda beach hotels will also have unhindered access to the Bay of Pasikuda. Declared a marine sanctuary for its rich biodiversity and marine life, the bay and its reef are ideal snorkelling hub for tourists with a passion for deep sea exploration. Pasikuda Beach, which lies on the bay, is no less impressive with its calm pink shaded waters and renowned for its lack of tidal activities. The bay is safe for swimming for both adults and children, and the most coveted aspect of Pasikuda Bay is that it is not surrounded by high-end hotels and other developments.
4. Discover Other Beaches
Although Pasikuda Beach is the most well-known beach in the area, it is not the only location where tourists can work on their tan and let their hair down. Kallady Beach is another breathtaking beach in this region, which is perhaps best known for its glorious sunsets and sunrises. Ideal for long walks on the beach and watching fishermen haul in their catch, the beach is also suitable for swimming activities. The Batticaloa Lagoon is another lovely water highlight near Pasikuda where one can go for a swim or embark on a boat cruise around Buffalo Island, Puliyantheevu Island and Bone Island.
5. Enjoy Water Sports Activities
Some of the best water-bound activities available to tourists in Pasikuda include water skiing and windsurfing. There are a number of resorts and water sports clubs offering curated holiday packages for those with an interest in water-based adventures whether it's banana boating or jet skiing around the coastline.
