Plan Your Trip to Trincomalee Nilaveli — Nilaveli & Pigeon Island

Plan Your Trip to Trincomalee Nilaveli – Best Time to Visit

Plan Your Trip to Trincomalee Nilaveli Trincomalee’s best months for calm sea, clear visibility and snorkeling are during the dry season between May and October. Whale and dolphin watching also tends to be best in many months around this window — check our Whale & Dolphin Watching page for seasonal details and recent sightings.

How to Get Here

By car/van: From Colombo it’s about ~258–265 km depending on route; expect roughly 4–6 hours by private car or transfer.

By train: There are train options to Trincomalee from Colombo (schedules vary). Combined taxi or tuk-tuk transfers from Trincomalee station or the bus stand to Nilaveli are short.

Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo, CMB) is the typical entry point — we offer airport pickup & private transfers. See our Arrival Transport page for fixed rates and booking.

Where to Stay

Nilaveli and Uppuveli are the most convenient beaches for Pigeon Island departures — there are hotels and guesthouses to fit all budgets. We can recommend local stays and coordinate pickups so you get to the boat on time.

• Luxury: beachfront resorts in Nilaveli
• Mid-range: boutique hotels and family-run guesthouses
• Budget: hostels and homestays in Trincomalee town or Uppuveli

Suggested Itineraries

Half Day — Pigeon Island Snorkel (Morning)

• Pickup at hotel → short drive to Nilaveli → boat to Pigeon Island → 3–6 hours snorkeling & relaxation → return to Nilaveli.
• Perfect for families and first-time snorkelers.

Full Day — Snorkel + Whale/Dolphin Watch

• Pickup → early morning whale/dolphin watch (seasonal) → return for beach lunch → Pigeon Island snorkel in afternoon.
• Bring waterproof camera and reef-safe sunscreen.

Private Charter — Custom

Private boats are available for sunrise trips, romantic getaways or fishing + snorkel combos. See our Private Boat Hire page for details.

Packing Checklist — What to Bring

• Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
• Swimwear, rashguard, snorkeling goggles (we provide gear if needed)
• Towel, water bottle, light dry bag for valuables
• Cash for park entrance and tips (local currency)
• Light footwear for walking on sand and rocks

Tip: Please avoid single-use plastics and bring a reusable water bottle — we run beach cleanups and appreciate guests who help keep Nilaveli clean.

Local Attractions & Things to Do

• Pigeon Island National Park — best for snorkeling and reef life viewing.
• Koneswaram Temple / Fort Frederick — historic Hindu temple with ocean views.
• Whale & Dolphin Watching — seasonal trips available (check sightings & season).
• Marble Beach & Uppuveli — quiet beaches for sunset walks.

Safety & Local Tips

• Always follow your guide’s safety briefing before entering the water.
• Do not touch or stand on corals — we brief every group on reef etiquette.
• Park entrance fees apply at Pigeon Island National Park — bring cash or confirm price with us before boarding.
• Weather and sea conditions sometimes require itinerary changes for safety — we’ll always prioritise safety.

Book & Contact

Ready to plan? Use the booking form, message us on WhatsApp or email info@pigeonislandtours.com. We offer transfers, private boats and combined day trips.

Frequently Asked Questions