The Singing Fish of Batticaloa is one of Sri Lanka’s most intriguing natural mysteries, best experienced from the historic Kallady Bridge. This phenomenon occurs in the Batticaloa Lagoon, where, under specific conditions—usually on full moon nights and during certain seasons—faint, musical sounds resembling a plucked string instrument can be heard emanating from the water.
Locals have long spoken of these mysterious sounds, believed to be made by a species of fish using their swim bladders to produce vibrations—though scientists have not definitively confirmed the exact cause. The phenomenon was even recorded in the 1950s by British naval officers using underwater microphones.
Kallady Bridge, originally constructed during the British colonial era and recently rebuilt, spans the lagoon and offers a peaceful vantage point to take in the surrounding views. In the early morning or quiet evenings, visitors often stop to listen for the Singing Fish or simply enjoy the breeze over the water.
A visit to the Singing Fish site and Kallady Bridge offers not only a rare natural experience but also a glimpse into local folklore and a deeper connection with the serene beauty of Batticaloa’s landscape.