Tag: Trincomalee hotels

Pigeon Island: Dive into the Marine World of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two main marine national parks, and one of them is the Pigeon Island National Park in Trincomalee. Exploring coral reefs and diving as you wish are all possible here!

It’s a Marine National Park

This important marine national park has two islands (the Small Pigeon Island and the Large one). The large one is considered the most important because it’s fringed by the coral reef.

Explore the beaches

The best thing about the beaches here is that they are very shallow. It’s safe to explore the beaches, and if you want, there are shops from which you can get safety jackets for rent.

Diving experiences

The best way to explore the waters is by snorkelling or diving. Don’t worry about the equipment as there are many diving schools to offer you their services.

Getting to Pigeon Island

If you have made plans to stay at one of the Trincomalee hotels the likes of Trinco Blu by Cinnamon, getting to Pigeon Island is not at all a difficulty. It’s located just 1km away from Nilaweli Beach.

Snorkeling in Pigeon Island

The Pigeon Island is pretty much the most well known and visited marine national park among those in Sri Lanka. The reason for this is the fact that the park is overflowing with some of the most enchanting coral reefs as well as aquatic life forms. The name of the island is derived from the fact that there are hundreds upon hundreds of rock pigeons that come here during their mating season. The island is positioned about a kilometer away from the very popular Nilaveli beach in Trincomalee. With over 200 types of fish and many different coral reefs it is no brain teaser that the island has recently begun to draw the attraction of snorkeling enthusiasts from all around the world. The snorkeling tours almost always come with a skilled guide who will ensure your safety as you marvel at the blacktip reef sharks, hawksbill or green turtles that can be spotted commonly in the island.

The tour also consists of a boat ride to Pigeon Island which will take you about 15 minutes usually. The snorkeling expedition will last for about two hours during which you can freely study the staggering aquatic life of the Indian Ocean off the shores of Sri Lanka. Swim alongside schools of beautiful fish and feast your eyes on the beautiful coral reefs that thrive in abundance here. The best time to take on this recreational activity is cited as between nine in the morning and two in the evening as this is the time when the visibility in water is the best. There are many Trincomalee hotels such as Trinco Blu by Cinnamon along with many others that offer this activity, or are located in close proximity to the shores. All of the activities that take place underwater are fully monitored and done under the supervision of PADI licensed instructors so as to ensure your safety while you enjoy the aquatic scenery.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+