Tamils called it Matakkalappu or Muddy Swamp. The Portuguese re-named it Batticaloa. But for many, it is the Land of the Singing Fish

Batticaloa, Batti for short, enjoys a spectacular position surrounded by lagoons with palm-filtered sunlight glancing off the water. There’s a mellow vibe to the town, and though there are no dramatic or must-see sights, a morning exploring the lagoon, the compact centre and its fortress  is time well spent. One Sunday morning, we did just that.

Lighthouse

The 28 metre lighthouse built in 1913 stands at the end of a sandbar, surrounded by lagoons and mangroves. It is a good spot to park your car and take a boat ride in the lagoon.

Lagoon

The 56 Km long lagoon, famous for its singing fish, has many small islands and is fed by a number of small rivers. It is linked to the sea by two narrow channels. The…