The East

Eastern Sri Lanka is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking beaches, lagoons and lush tropical countryside. Most areas were previously under the control of the Tamil Tigers (LTTE), but are no longer classified as ‘no-go zones’ and the opportunity to explore this untapped paradise is luring travellers.

The locals are understandably still tense from the former conflict, but offer travellers some of the country’s most heartfelt welcomes. Many towns bear scars from both the tsunami and civil war, and on the surface look like they are still under siege. However, if you are lucky enough to spend a few days with the locals, it is clear that change is taking place and a strong sense of hope and prosperity for the future is emerging.