Batticaloa Fort: The Guardian of the Singing Fish

Batticaloa Fort is a beautifully preserved colonial structure originally built by the Portuguese in 1628 and later captured and expanded by the Dutch. Its unique location on a small island surrounded by the calm lagoon makes it one of the most picturesque forts in the country.

Architecture and Current Use

The fort is compact and features thick walls with four bastions.

Administrative Heart: Today, it houses several local government offices, which has helped keep the structures well-maintained.

Views of the Lagoon: Walking the ramparts gives you panoramic views of the water and the iconic Kallady bridge in the distance.

Artifacts: Several old Dutch cannons can still be seen perched on the walls, pointing towards the lagoon.

A Calm City Landmark

The fort is located right in the middle of Batticaloa's city pulse, providing a peaceful and historical counterpoint to the busy markets nearby.

Travel Guidance

Location: On the island city of Batticaloa.

Convenience: A car rental with H.B.S allows you to navigate the long drive to the east coast comfortably and arrive with enough energy to explore the fort and the lagoon.