Kinniya is a historic and vibrant town located in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. Positioned along the beautiful east coast, Kinniya is best known for its iconic landmark—the Kinniya Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Sri Lanka. This impressive structure not only serves as a vital transportation link but also offers scenic views of the surrounding waters, attracting both locals and tourists.
The town is home to a diverse community predominantly composed of Sri Lankan Moors, along with Tamil and Sinhalese populations, reflecting a rich cultural mosaic that is evident in its religious sites, festivals, and traditions. Kinniya also boasts the famous Kanniya Hot Springs, a natural geothermal attraction believed to have healing properties, drawing visitors seeking wellness and relaxation.
Economically, Kinniya thrives mainly on fisheries, with many residents depending on the abundant coastal resources for their livelihood. The fishing industry plays a crucial role in the social and economic fabric of the town. Additionally, agriculture and small-scale trade support the local economy.
Education is valued in Kinniya, with several schools and colleges offering learning opportunities to the youth, contributing to community development. The town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and growing infrastructure, makes Kinniya a unique destination on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast.
Total Population
64,613
GN Divisions
31
🌊 Why is Kinniya – Sri Lanka Special?
A Historic Coastal Town of Culture and Nature
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province within the Trincomalee District, Kinniya is a vibrant town known for its rich heritage, scenic beauty, and thriving community life. It offers a unique blend of history, natural wonders, and cultural diversity.
🌉 Where Tradition Meets Modern Connectivity
Kinniya is famous for the Kinniya Bridge, Sri Lanka’s longest bridge, which not only connects communities but also showcases stunning coastal views. The town’s natural attraction, the Kanniya Hot Springs, draws visitors seeking wellness and relaxation.
🎣 A Coastal Economy Rooted in Fisheries
The town’s economy thrives on fishing, with many families depending on the sea’s bounty for their livelihood. Alongside fisheries, small-scale trade and agriculture support local life, blending tradition with everyday resilience.
🕌 A Tapestry of Cultures and Faiths
Kinniya hosts a diverse population, mainly Sri Lankan Moors, alongside Tamil and Sinhalese communities. Mosques, temples, and churches coexist peacefully, reflecting a rich cultural fabric celebrated through festivals and communal harmony.
👨👩👧👦 A Welcoming and Dynamic Community
Residents of Kinniya are known for their warmth and strong social ties. Life here balances the rhythms of fishing, religious observances, and community gatherings that nurture a vibrant spirit.
🌅 Embracing Growth While Honoring Heritage
As infrastructure and education improve, Kinniya moves toward development while preserving its coastal charm and cultural identity—offering a hopeful future grounded in respect for its past and natural beauty.
| GN Code | Name in English |
|---|---|
| 005 | Munaichana |
| 010 | Maniyarasankulam |
| 015 | Mancholai |
| 020 | Malinthurai |
| 025 | Majeeth Nagar |
| 030 | Magaru Gramam |
| 035 | Maharoof Nagar |
| 040 | Ayliyady |
| 045 | Annal Nagar |
| 050 | Alenkany |
| 055 | Ehuthar Nagar |
| 060 | Echchan Teevu |
| 065 | Kuttikarach |
| 070 | Kurinchakany |
| 075 | Mancholai Chanai |
| 080 | Naduoothu |
| 085 | Nadutheevu |
| 090 | Pariya Kainniya |
| 095 | Periyathumunai |
| 100 | Poovarasantheevu |
| 105 | Kinniya |
| 110 | Ideman |
| 115 | Faizal Nagar |
| 120 | Kachchakoditheevu |
| 125 | Kattayaru |
| 130 | Kakamunai |
| 135 | Rahumaniya Nagar |
| 140 | Samavechchatheevu |
| 145 | SinnaKinniya |
| 150 | Surangal |
| 155 | Upparu |
📞 Public Services – Kinniya
| Service | Name | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|
| 🚓 Police Station | Kinniya Police Station | +94 0262236222 |
| 🏥 Hospital | Kinniya District Hospital | +94 0262236261 |
| 🏛️ Divisional Secretariat | Kinniya Divisional Secretariat | +94 0262236163 |
| 🩺 MOH Office | Medical Officer of Health (Region) | +94 |
For immediate emergencies, dial 119. Contact the Divisional Secretariat for local service confirmations or updated details.
🌊 Best Time to Visit Kinniya
Kinniya, located in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, experiences a tropical climate influenced by coastal breezes and monsoons. The best time to visit is from May to September, during the dry season, when weather is ideal for exploring the Kinniya Bridge, Kanniya Hot Springs, and the vibrant fishing villages. This period offers sunny days, calm seas, and excellent opportunities for sightseeing and cultural experiences.
🌞 Weather & Seasons
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | May – September | Sunny weather, ideal for sightseeing and fishing activities |
| Wet Season (Northeast Monsoon) | October – January | Heavy rains, less crowded, lush coastal scenery |
| Inter-Monsoon | February – April | Warm with occasional showers, quieter atmosphere |
🎉 Cultural Events & Festivals
- Ramadan and Eid Celebrations: Important religious events for the predominantly Muslim community.
- Vesak Festival: Celebrated with lanterns and almsgiving in mixed communities.
- Traditional Fishing Festivals: Community events centered around the fishing culture and harvest seasons.
💡 Travel Tips
- Bring sun protection and light clothing suitable for coastal weather.
- Plan boat trips or fishing excursions during dry months for the best experience.
- Respect local customs and religious practices during visits.
- Carry a camera to capture scenic bridges, coastal views, and vibrant community life.
📌 Visit between May and September for ideal weather, cultural richness, and memorable coastal experiences in Kinniya.
🛏️ Search Places to Stay in Kinniya
🗺️ Geographical Overview of Kinniya
Kinniya is a coastal town situated in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. It lies approximately 20 km southeast of Trincomalee city and about 250 km from Colombo. Known for its strategic location along the eastern shoreline, Kinniya serves as a vital link between coastal communities and the broader region.
The area features a mix of coastal plains, lagoons, and wetlands, which support diverse marine and bird life. The town is adjacent to the Kinniya lagoon and benefits from rich fisheries, contributing significantly to the local economy. Its geographic position provides access to the Indian Ocean while also supporting agriculture through irrigation systems sourced from nearby water bodies.
🌍 Location & Surroundings
- Province: Eastern Province
- District: Trincomalee District
- Coordinates: Approx. 8.54° N, 81.23° E
- Nearest Major Town: Trincomalee (20 km)
- Distance from Colombo: ~250 km
🌊 Natural Features
- Coastal plains with access to the Indian Ocean.
- Kinniya Lagoon and adjacent wetlands.
- Rich marine biodiversity supporting fisheries.
- Nearby natural springs including Kanniya Hot Springs.
📌 Kinniya’s blend of coastal ecosystems, natural springs, and vibrant community life makes it a distinctive town in Sri Lanka’s Eastern coastal region.
🌾 Local Economy & Agriculture in Kinniya
Kinniya, a bustling coastal town in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, has an economy largely driven by fisheries and agriculture. The town’s proximity to the Indian Ocean and Kinniya Lagoon provides abundant fishing opportunities, which form the backbone of livelihoods for many local families. Alongside fishing, agriculture remains an important activity, with fertile lands supporting the cultivation of paddy, sugarcane, and various vegetables.
The community also engages in small-scale trade and services, bolstered by improved infrastructure and connectivity through the iconic Kinniya Bridge. Livestock farming and artisanal crafts contribute to the diverse local economy, while the presence of natural attractions like the Kanniya Hot Springs draws visitors, supporting emerging eco-tourism efforts.
💼 Key Economic Activities
- Fisheries and aquaculture as primary sources of income.
- Paddy, sugarcane, and vegetable cultivation on fertile coastal soils.
- Livestock farming including cattle, goats, and poultry.
- Small-scale trade and local businesses supporting daily needs.
- Eco-tourism related to natural springs and coastal attractions.
🌱 Sustainability & Community Initiatives
Kinniya’s residents are increasingly adopting sustainable fishing practices and agricultural methods to protect coastal ecosystems and ensure long-term productivity. Community groups work towards conservation of marine resources and promotion of responsible tourism. Women’s cooperatives and youth organizations play active roles in promoting local crafts and environmentally friendly businesses.
📌 Kinniya’s economy thrives through a blend of fisheries, agriculture, and community-driven sustainability efforts.
🤝 Community & Culture in Kinniya
Kinniya, located in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, is a vibrant coastal town where diverse cultures and traditions come together in a lively and harmonious community. The people of Kinniya are known for their warmth, resilience, and rich cultural heritage deeply connected to the sea and land.
The town’s culture reflects a blend of Islamic traditions predominantly, alongside Tamil and Sinhalese influences. Mosques, temples, and churches serve as important centers for worship, education, and social gathering. Festivals and religious events foster unity and celebrate the town’s diverse ethnic fabric.
🎉 Key Cultural Highlights
- Ramadan & Eid Festivals: Major religious observances marked by prayer, feasting, and community charity.
- Vesak Festival: Celebrated with lanterns and almsgiving, reflecting shared cultural values.
- Fishing Festivals: Community events honoring the sea and the livelihoods it supports.
- Local Weddings & Celebrations: Richly adorned ceremonies blending traditions and family ties.
🎭 Arts, Music & Local Traditions
Kinniya’s cultural scene includes traditional Islamic devotional music, Tamil folk songs, and coastal storytelling that celebrate the sea and community life. Handicrafts, weaving, and culinary traditions add to the town’s unique cultural identity. Elders and community leaders play vital roles in preserving and passing down these customs.
📌 Kinniya’s culture thrives in its rich diversity, deep spiritual roots, and strong community spirit — making it a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province.
🏫 Education & Public Facilities in Kinniya
Kinniya, situated in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, provides essential educational and public services to support its diverse and growing community. The town focuses on accessible schooling, healthcare, and community services to enhance quality of life and social development.
Educational institutions in Kinniya include government schools offering primary and secondary education, with curricula that reflect the town’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious population. Efforts are ongoing to improve infrastructure and provide vocational training to meet local employment needs.
📚 Educational Institutions
- Government primary and secondary schools serving diverse communities.
- Preschools and early childhood education centers.
- Vocational training programs focusing on fisheries, agriculture, and trades.
- Religious schools and cultural education supported by local mosques and temples.
🏥 Public Facilities & Services
- Healthcare: Kinniya District Hospital and local clinics providing medical services.
- Police Station: Maintaining public safety and order.
- Post Office: Communication and postal services for residents and businesses.
- Community Centers: Venues for cultural events, meetings, and social programs.
- Sports Facilities: Grounds and courts for cricket, football, and other sports.
With ongoing development and community involvement, Kinniya continues to enhance its education system and public infrastructure to build a resilient and thriving town.
📌 Education and public services in Kinniya are vital for fostering growth, wellbeing, and social harmony.
🚌 Transportation & Accessibility in Kinniya
Kinniya, located in Sri Lanka’s Trincomalee District of the Eastern Province, is accessible mainly via the A15 highway, which connects Trincomalee to the southern and eastern parts of the island. This route facilitates travel for residents, visitors, and supports local commerce.
Public and private buses operate frequently between Kinniya and nearby towns including Trincomalee, Mutur, and Polonnaruwa. Within the town, three-wheelers (tuk-tuks), motorcycles, and bicycles are common modes of transport for short-distance travel.
🚆 Rail Connectivity
Kinniya does not have a railway station. The closest rail access is from Trincomalee and Batticaloa, which can be reached by road within an hour or two. Buses serve as the primary mode of inter-district transportation for residents.
✈️ Nearest Airports
- Trincomalee China Bay Airport (TRR): Located about 15 km away, serving domestic flights.
- Batticaloa Airport (BTC): Around 90 km south, with limited domestic services.
🚍 Local Transportation
- Frequent intercity buses connecting Kinniya to Trincomalee and surrounding areas.
- Three-wheelers (tuk-tuks) widely used for local travel.
- Motorcycles and bicycles for daily commuting.
- Occasional private vehicles and goods transport vans.
Well-served by road transport, Kinniya maintains strong connectivity with regional hubs, supporting its economic and social activities.
📌 Access via the A15 highway and nearby airports keeps Kinniya connected for travel, trade, and tourism in Eastern Sri Lanka.
How to Reach Kinniya
Kinniya is a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka’s Trincomalee District, Eastern Province. Situated along the A15 highway, it connects travelers easily to Trincomalee city, Mutur, and other key destinations. Regular bus services and private transport options make Kinniya accessible for visitors and locals alike.
| City | Distance | Estimated Time | Route Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trincomalee | 16 km | 25 mins | |
| Mutur | 28 km | 40 mins | |
| Batticaloa | 75 km | 1 hr 45 mins | |
| Polonnaruwa | 90 km | 2 hrs 10 mins |
📍 Interactive Route Map
🌉 Why Visit or Invest in Kinniya
Kinniya, located in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka's Eastern Province, is a culturally rich town known for its iconic hot springs, coastal charm, and growing development potential.
Experience Kinniya — where healing waters, culture, and opportunity come together.