Commonwealth War Cemetery

The East


For a break from the beach, stroll up to this beautifully kept cemetery. This is the last resting place for 364 Commonwealth servicemen who died at Trinco during WWII, most of them during a 1942 Japanese raid that sank over a dozen vessels.

You'll be shown around by the amiable caretaker, whose knowledge of the cemetery is encyclopedic – he'll lead you to specific graves, or those of the 13 nationalities buried here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The East attractions

1. Uppuveli Beach

0.46 MILES

This honey-coloured crescent of sand makes a lovely spot to enjoy life under a coconut tree. Swimming is possible although there are often red flags…

2. Salli Muthumariamunam Kovil

0.74 MILES

This beachfront temple is 4km by road from Uppuveli, but only a short wade (or hop by boat if the tide is high) from the north end of Uppuveli beach. It’s…

3. Fish Market

3 MILES

Fishy interest is provided at the raucous daily fish market near the bus station. Early mornings are busiest.

4. Swami Rock

3.11 MILES

The base for Kandasamy Kovil is considered the world's greatest vantage point for spotting blue whales. Note the odd cubic-shaped rocks below.

5. Kandasamy Kovil

3.12 MILES

This revered temple at the summit of a rocky outcrop is one of Sri Lanka’s pancha ishwaram, five historical Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva and…

6. Kali Kovil

3.14 MILES

Kali Kovil has the most impressive, eye-catching gopuram (gateway towers) of Trinco’s many Hindu temples. It's always busy.

7. Gokana Temple

3.26 MILES

There are fine views of Trinco and the coastline from here.

8. Buddha Statue

3.26 MILES

This big standing Buddha statue is at the Gokana Temple.