Just a few minutes away from the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport is the charming coastal town of Negombo, located at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon, in the Western Province, 38 km away from Colombo. Famous for its wide, golden, sandy beach, Negombo boasts trendy hotels, restaurants, cafes, and sushi bars and is in handy proximity to Colombo, making Negombo one of Sri Lanka's most popular destinations. Let’s take a look at some of the top things to do in Negombo on your next travel adventure.
Catch A Sunset On Negombo Beach
Sri Lanka is famous for its beaches, and Negombo Beach is famous for its golden sand along with its picturesque sunset. Ideal for catching a tan, going for a stroll, or simply relaxing by the ocean, this beach offers the perfect escape for you and your family.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or in the evening for cooler weather, and don’t forget your sunscreen.
Explore the Negombo Fish Market
Visit one of the largest and busiest fish markets on the island. Locally known as “Lellama,” the Negombo fish market is a bustling hub of activity where you can see fishermen bringing in their daily catches as locals haggle for fresh seafood.
Pro Tip: Try to visit during the early hours of the morning to see the fisherman deliver the fresh catch of the day.
Visit Negombo Dutch Fort
Located in the heart of the town is the Negombo Fort, standing tall with its rich architecture that showcases a blend of Dutch and Portuguese influences. Constructed by the Portuguese in the 17th century, it was later fortified by the Dutch. After its capture by the British, the fort was almost entirely demolished; the remains, namely the clock tower, the rampart, and the bastions, exhibit influences of both Dutch and British architecture.
Pro Tip: If time permits, combine your visit to the fort with a boat ride along the canal for a unique experience.
Taste Local Cuisine
Negombo is known for its fresh seafood. From mouthwatering jumbo prawns, crabs, and lobsters, you can enjoy an array of seafood delicacies during your stay. Some of the must-try dishes include:
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Fresh Lagoon Prawns
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Crab curry with sambol and rice on the side.
Negombo has a plethora of restaurants, pubs, and cafes where you can grab a cold one and try out some of the best local seafood.
Negombo Lagoon Boat Safari
Negombo is famous for its large lagoon with several small rivers and canals. Rich in biodiversity, the Negombo lagoon spans an area of about 35 square kilometres and is home to a variety of fish, crabs, and lobsters. There is a boat ride that starts in the Dutch Canal and leads its way into the lagoon. The boat safari usually takes about 2-3 hours. Sit back and take in the stunning views of a sunset painted in pink and orange hues as Mother Nature puts on a show as you glide across the lagoon's tranquil waters.
Shop at Local Markets
If you take a walk down the beach road in Negombo, you will be able to spot many local markets and cafes that offer unique souvenirs and gift items for your friends and family back home. You can choose from a wide selection of handmade handbags, jewellery, trinkets, locally produced beachwear, soaps, and more. There is something for everyone.
Birdwatching at Muthurajawela Marsh
Known as the “Swamp of Royal Treasure,” Muthurajawela Marsh is the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. This sprawling wetland consists of a rich ecosystem that makes it home to diverse wildlife, including many exotic birds. From herons and cormorants to kingfishers and lapwings, Muthurajawela Marsh is the perfect spot for birdwatching.
Visit St. Mary’s Church
Built during the late 19th century, St. Mary’s Church is one of Sri Lanka’s largest cathedrals. Renowned for its stunning architecture, stained glass windows, and intricate frescoes that adorn its ceilings.
This 140-year-old church has a peaceful ambiance that makes it a quiet haven to simply admire the rich history and craftsmanship of this timeless marvel.
Negombo is a true paradise of Sri Lanka with a touch of culture, nature, history, and stunning local life. There are always plenty of activities to undertake, from the breathtaking scenery, golden beaches, architectural marvels, and scrumptious cuisines to vast wetlands. Negombo is well suited for all types of travellers and is just a few minutes away from the international airport, making it a pit stop on the way.
Plan your trip to Negombo today with Fernando Travels and experience the beauty of this coastal paradise.