On the Gulf of Bengal, the historic city of Trincomalee expanded next to a magnificent natural harbour. To the north, the beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli are the epitome of exoticism: azure waters, golden sand, palm trees. Cafes, hotels, restaurants, dive clubs and floating leisure businesses in Uppuveli bear witness to the upsurge of tourism in the region. Those who seek more peace and quiet, should head further north to Nilaveli, more unspoiled.