Batticaloa is a major city located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Situated on an island along the country's east coast, it lies approximately 111 kilometres (69 mi) south of Trincomalee. The city serves as the administrative capital of the Batticaloa District and was formerly the provincial capital.
As a significant commercial centre, Batticaloa is also the seat of the Eastern University of Sri Lanka. The surrounding region includes Pasikudah, a popular tourist destination located 35 km (22 mi) to the northwest, known for its beaches and shallow lagoons with warm water year-round.