Pasikuda

Pasikuda (Tamil: பாசிக்குடா, Sinhala: පාසිකුඩා, pronounced 'Paasikkudah' meaning 'Green-Algae-Bay') is a coastal resort town located 35 kilometers northwest of Batticaloa in the Eastern Province. Historically a small Tamil hamlet alongside neighboring Kalkudah, this pristine destination suffered devastating impact from both the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 26-year Sri Lankan Civil War, which ended in 2009. Since peace returned and tsunami rehabilitation completed, Pasikuda has emerged as one of Sri Lanka's premier beach destinations, renowned for possessing one of the longest stretches of shallow reef coastline in the world. The unique geographical feature allows visitors to walk kilometers into the Bay of Bengal while remaining in only inches-deep water with relatively weak currents compared to other Sri Lankan coasts. The town is accessible from Trincomalee and Batticaloa cities, with the nearest airport being Batticaloa Airport offering scheduled flights from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport. The Sri Lankan government's strict environmental policies have prevented mass development while promoting sustainable eco-tourism. The bay's protected status creates exceptionally calm, crystal-clear turquoise waters ideal for families, with powdery white sand beaches backed by coconut palms and sensitively developed luxury resorts.