Formally known as Gokanna, the legendary landing port of Panduwasdewa – prince Vijaya’s younger brother was the regal port of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa era for trade and commerce with the far east. The ancient port as a strategical point of warfare was a cynosure for the colonial Fort Frederic which offers a dominant look with a mixed makeup of Sinhalese, Muslim, and Tamil constructions. In 1623 Portuguese caught it and in 1639 it was recaptured by the Dutch. Japanese bombed it on April 9th, 1942.
Some of the significant places are Swami Rock – a towering clifftop, Koneshwaram Kovil, Lovers leap – where Dutch lady Francina Van Rheed plunged from the cliff into the seawater to drown and die but however survived, the Trinco legend traces out. Other than the above places The golden sandy beach, Kali and Pillaiyar Kovil in inner harbor, Dutch bay, Dyke Street, Koddiyar bay set captivating and contemplative looks even at the busy hours.
In the North of Trinco around Uppuweli lies the Commonwealth War Cemetery comprising 362 war graves of the Second World War that rouses a somber and bleak memory.
Hot water springs 8 km from Uppuweli refresh you with a splash of a slim bucket of lukewarm water. Both sides of the rocky path are full of local fruits, sweetmeats, and traditional sundries. While the Welgamwehera a little beyond Trincommalee titillates you with the remnants of stupas, image houses, and the standing Buddha.
The tiny pigeon island is an ideal haven for tourists while snorkeling and boat trips can be enjoyed around the coral island by aquamarine lovers.
