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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Negombo: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Negombo
- Feel the sand move beneath your toes, and the gentle waves kiss your heels as you explore Negombo's magnificent beaches.
- Observe fishers using traditional methods as they set out to sea in hand-built outrigger canoes and pay a visit to Lellama, where they sell their wares.
- Negombo is a vibrant resort that exudes old-fashioned colonial charm and has everything you need for a fun-filled holiday in the glorious Sri Lankan sunshine.
- This fantastic getaway is enhanced by a delightful bustling fish market, vibrant nightlife, and great food.
- Negombo has a lovely sandy beach, and water sports like windsurfing, kayaking, boogie boarding, and sailing are popular.
- Local attractions include Muthurajawela's wetlands, the ruins of a 17th-century Dutch fort, Negombo Beach Park, and Angurukaramulla Temple.
- Negombo comes alive after dark with many excellent restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
- Lewis Place is a hive of activity and a great place to spend the night dancing; many unique hotels can be found just north of the town centre, along the beachfront.
- Tourists frequently visit the harbour early in the morning to watch the fisherman bring back their catch and score a new seafood bargain.
- Negombo Lagoon is truly enchanting, and its vast mangrove swamps are home to numerous water birds such as cormorants, herons, and egrets.
- Capital: Colombo
- International Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
- Population- 142,136
- Currency- Sri Lankan rupee
- Time: GMT+5:30
- Driving side- Left
- Main Electricity- 230V
- Official Language- Sri Lankan Tamil language
- Religion: Christianity
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Negombo
- One of Sri Lanka's first beach resorts, Negombo, is built around a prawn-fishing lagoon and features a long stretch of silver sand that runs north along the coast.
- It's a small town with Buddhist temples, Portuguese churches, and Dutch canals that welcomes visitors gently.
- Negombo was a significant producer of Sri Lankan cinnamon long before the beach resorts arrived.
- Its profitable crop and natural port made it a valuable asset, and control was shared by the kings of Jaffna, the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British.
- The Portuguese left behind many pastel-painted Catholic churches, many of which were the size of cathedrals, earning it the nickname "Little Rome" among European traders.
- The Dutch Fort, built on the ruins of an earlier Portuguese bastion, is adjacent to the fish market.
- In the late 1800s, the British converted it into a prison, and today you can only see inside if you commit a crime.
- You can, however, freely walk around the grassy ramparts and peer through the 17th-century entrance gate.
- Although the beaches on the south and west coasts are better suited for more extended beach stays, Negombo serves as a convenient rest stop before your flight.
- Jetwing Beach, designed by renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, is arguably the best hotel.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Negombo
- Negombo has a tropical climate with high temperatures all year; there are dry and rainy seasons, as with most tropical destinations.
- However, there are usually plenty of hot, sunny days and any rainfall, even during the rainier months, comes in heavy showers that clear quickly.
- When the weather is most stable between January and March, it is best to visit.
- April is the hottest year, with an average daily high of 32 degrees Celsius and a low of 25 degrees Celsius.
- September is the best month of the year, with an average daily high of 30 degrees Celsius and a low of 26 degrees Celsius.
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Negombo
Negombo Lagoon
- Negombo Lagoon is a large lagoon in southwest Sri Lanka, with several small rivers and canals flowing into it and the Indian Ocean to the north.
- The body of water is teeming with a diverse array of fish, crabs, and lobsters, making it an ideal location for anglers.
- Tourists enjoy the relaxing boat ride on the lagoon to get away from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Negombo Lagoon is well-known for its diverse biodiversity, which covers an area of about 35 square kilometres despite being only a few meters deep.
- It has diverse flora, fauna, and mangrove forest, contributing to its ecotourism and conservation efforts.
- Negombo is a tourist hotspot with many hotels, safe transportation, and certified guides to help you explore the area thoroughly.
- A boat ride begins in the Dutch Canal and ends in the lagoon.
- Private boats are also present, fully equipped with life jackets and safety equipment, and adhere to strict safety procedures to ensure that the guests have a pleasant tour.
- The boat ride also includes light refreshments along the way.
- A densely populated region surrounds the area, as do vast rice paddy fields, coconut plantations, grasslands, fishing grounds, and agricultural grounds.
- Many hotels and resorts in the lagoon area serve delicious and fresh seafood to their guests.
St. Mary's Church
- St. Mary's Church is one of Sri Lanka's largest cathedrals, located in the heart of Negombo.
- Although Negombo is a multi-religious city, Roman Catholics constitute most of the population.
- St. Mary's Church, known as the 'Maha Veediya Palliya,' appears to rise above other buildings in Negombo, dubbed 'Little Rome' due to its numerous churches and Portuguese-Dutch influence.
- The Church is a stunning structure with cream yellow walls and black and white marble details.
- Locals and tourists alike can participate in the morning prayers that take place beneath the Church's beautifully decorated ceiling and enjoy the light that shines through the stained glass windows.
- This 140-year-old church is famous for a painting of Christ by N.S. Godamanne, a Buddhist painter.
- The concept of Buddhist art for a church distinguishes this Church from the rest.
- The Church's magnificent church organ and stained glass windows are also noteworthy.
- The Church now numbers over 3000 people and is led by five priests.
Negombo Beach
- Negombo Beach is a popular tourist destination that draws visitors from all over the world.
- It is a collection of smaller beaches, each stunning and mesmerising. In Western Sri Lanka, it is a popular coastal destination.
- The beach has a long stretch ideal for long walks while admiring the beautiful palm trees.
- The beach provides a traditional Sri Lankan beach experience, complete with golden sand, sparkling water, palm trees, and beautiful tropical weather.
- The beach is usually not crowded, and sunbathing on the golden sand is simple.
- Negombo is a small town with a rich history.
- The beaches provide tourists with an opportunity to relax, unwind, and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Negombo Beach is the ideal holiday destination stop, surrounded by beautiful hotels, resorts, and luxury restaurants.
- The Negombo Beach area also has several famous churches and unique architectural designs that draw inspiration worldwide, adding to the city's cultural heritage.
- Negombo Beach is not the most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka because the water has a brown tinge due to pollution, but it is still a popular tourist destination. Tourists enjoy strolling along the coast.
Negombo Dutch Fort
- Negombo Dutch Fort is, as the name suggests, in Negombo.
- It was initially a Portuguese creation, but it was rebuilt by the Dutch after they took control of it.
- Although the fort is in ruins, it was an essential part of its colonial history.
- The Dutch Fort is close to a lagoon and the Esplanade, a cricket field playing many games.
- It is located near the well-known Negombo fish market.
- Following the British capture, the fort was almost entirely demolished to make a prison, still in use today.
- The ruins, including a clock tower, rampart, and bastions, were inspired by Dutch and British architecture.
Hamilton Canal
- The Hamilton canal is a 14.5-kilometre-long waterway built by the Dutch and later fortified by the British in 1802.
- The canal was named after Gavin Hamilton, British government officials during British rule.
- Taking a boat ride down the Hamilton canal means you'll be experiencing some exciting moments in the life and culture of the fisherfolk who live on the canal's banks, as well as some scenic views and eco-friendly habitats.
- The exciting journey begins in the famous seaside village of Negombo, aboard well-equipped boats outfitted with safety equipment and knowledgeable crew.
- The cruise starts along on the calm waters of Hamilton's historic canal.
- The boat takes down to the beautiful Maha-Oya, enjoying the serenity and cool breeze. Enjoy some relaxing time at the wetland while watching monkeys, water monitors, and abundant birdlife.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Negombo Off the Beaten Track
Muthurajawela wetlands
- Muthurajawela marshes, located in the southern region of the Negombo Lagoon, is a magnificent urban sanctuary covering an area of 7,580 acres and is Sri Lanka's largest saline coastal bog.
- The Sinhalese title 'Muthurajawela,' which translates to 'Supreme Field of Pearls,' is thought to have originated 7,000 years ago.
- It is connected to the Negombo Lagoon and the Dutch canal system and is primarily accessible by boat.
- The region is home to 192 different species of flora, including many different types of mangroves.
- The marsh also has 209 distinct fauna species, including vertebrates such as crocodiles, water monitors, and monkeys, invertebrates such as dragonflies and butterflies, and 102 bird species.
- Spectacular migratory birds can be seen between September and April, as can close to 80 species of endemic birds such as kingfishers, purple herons, and brahminy kites.
- Some of these plants are native to the swamp.
- Muthurajawela was designated a sanctuary by the Sri Lankan government in 1996 due to its diverse and unique ecosystem.
- Visitors are guided by staff from the Muthurajawela Marsh Centre to avoid causing harm to the marsh ecosystem.
- This magnificent sanctuary is well worth the journey and can be reached via the same boat excursions that take you through the Negombo Lagoon.
Angurukaramulla Temple
- This place worship for Hindus and Buddhists alike, also known as Bodhirajarama Maha Viharaya, dates back over three centuries.
- It is well-known for its 6m-tall Buddha Statue, which can be seen from afar.
- At the base of the Buddha Statue is a dragon's head with a wide-open mouth that serves as the entrance to the Buddha (Shrine room).
- Sathapena (sleeping) Buddha statue is located within the Buduge chamber, where Buddhist pilgrims can worship or leave offerings.
- One will be surrounded by vibrant ancient murals and paintings depicting Buddha and other prominent figures from Buddhist literature (Jathaka stories).
- Beautifully adorned deities can also be found on the shrine room's ceiling.
- The Pilima Ge of the temple depicts significant Buddhist events in Sri Lanka and full-scale images of Sri Lankan kings and queens ranging from Vijaya to Sri Wickrema Rajasinghe.
- The Hindu temple, Sri Siddha Suniyam Devalaya, is located behind the temple and is named after the Sri Lankan deity Sri Siddha Suniyam.
- Who is said to be benevolent to virtuous people during the bright lunar fortnight and hateful to the wicked during the dark lunar fortnight.
- The temple is approximately one mile inland from Negombo.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Negombo Culture and Traditions
- Many historical attractions strewn about Negombo allow visitors to delve into the city's eventful past.
- Negombo is a popular destination for cultural tourists, particularly Sri Lanka's colonial past.
- Here's a list of places where you can get the most out of the city's culture.
- The city is just one of many places where people of different faiths coexist peacefully.
- This is best exemplified by the numerous religious places of worship located near one another.
- The Angurukaramulla Temple is a Buddhist temple dating over 300 years and many intricate murals depicting Lord Buddha's life.
- When entering the complex, make sure to dress conservatively.
- The neo-classical St. Mary's Church and several other churches scattered throughout the town bear witness to Negombo's nickname "Little Rome" and sizeable Catholic community.
- Furthermore, the mosques and Hindu kovils in the city centre demonstrate the city's religious and cultural diversity.
- Negombo has many colonial-era monuments, including old churches, fortresses, and the Hamilton Canal. It was a critical naval stronghold for European colonisers, particularly the Portuguese and Dutch Empires, during the 16th and 17th centuries.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Negombo: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Lords Restaurant Complex
#food
- The Lord Restaurant Complex is a popular hangout in Negombo.
- Regarding good food and ambience, Lords Restaurant in Negombo hits all the right notes.
- It serves a wide range of delectable dishes and is well-known for its beautiful food presentations and lively atmosphere.
- The restaurant also serves a diverse Western, Eastern, and fusion cuisine menu.
- A portion of the restaurant's profits is donated to The Hope Foundation, a local animal welfare organisation.
- To avoid last-minute disappointment, reserve your table in advance.
Petit Restaurant
#food
- Looking for restaurants in Negombo Petit restaurant in Negombo is the place to go if you're hungry and want to try some authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
- What you deserve is a meal at Petit.
- This lovely restaurant provides diners with the opportunity to feast on a variety of perfectly cooked seafood dishes.
- This quaint family-run establishment is always busy, and large groups should call ahead to place their orders to avoid a long wait.
- You'll mostly enjoy not only the food but also the warm welcome you'll receive at this rustic restaurant.
Black Coral Restaurant
#food
- This opulent restaurant is located within the upscale Jetwing Beach Hotel, easily accessible from the city centre.
- These chic quarters has a beautiful setting and a welcoming staff, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
- This fine dining establishment serves delectable ala carte dishes and an indulgent six-course meal complete with pieces of bread, aperitifs, chocolates, and even sorbets.
fashion
#fashion
- Negombo is a lovely city surrounded by immaculate beaches fringed with coconut palms.
- The area is surrounded by fishing villages and is removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
- A visitor to the region will quickly notice that the urban vibe hasn't made its way to the city, so there won't be any big malls to look for when it comes to shopping.
- Instead, a few exclusive shops sell locally made crafts, produce, and necessities.
- There are a few upscale stores and boutiques, but what's the point of going to the more mundane means of shopping?
- The true essence of shopping in Negombo is found in its markets, where visitors can see locals buying produce, fresh fish just caught from the oceans, the famous Sri Lankan mud crab, tuna, and much more.
- The markets have vendors who sell locally sourced fruits, serving as a healthy snack as you walk through the markets.
- If you're looking for something flashy, Odel is a famous fashion store chain on the island that sells internationally and well-known local brands' clothing and accessories.
- Luv SL is another store to check out if you're looking for authentic handcrafted souvenirs, locally made clothing such as sarongs, and even bath-ware and skincare products in Negombo.
- Kalpana Batik & Souvenirs is well-known for its local wares, including locally designed batik clothing.
- If you're looking to buy some jewellery with beautiful Ceylon gemstones, ASDA Gem & Jewellery and Blue Moon Jewellers are the places to go.
- Local clothing stores such as Glits and Sriyani Dress Point are also worth visiting if you want to learn about local fashion and get your hands on extraordinarily cheap but high-quality clothing and accessories.
Muthurajawela Marsh
#fun
- This is one of the locations where the 2004 tsunami beckons.
- This Negombo attraction, which translates to "Supreme Field of Pearls," is a wetland perched southerly on the city's lagoon.
- This canal, built by the Portuguese, was previously a vibrant rice-growing region.
- The marsh and wetlands are home to various beautiful bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and cormorants.
- See the section on guided boat rides for more information.
- The atmosphere is very soothing.
Fishing Trip on the Lagoon
#fun
- Negombo is a fun place to visit, and it's even better because it's so close to the capital city of Colombo.
- The picturesque Negombo Lagoon is one of the best places to visit in the region.
- An afternoon fishing here can be a great way to spend quality time with yourself or a friend.
- Many tour operators are eager to provide you with an unforgettable lagoon fishing experience.
- A typical fishing session lasts about 3 hours – and you can catch a lot of fish in that time!
- Choose a morning or afternoon session, depending favourites on your preferences.
- Mornings are generally more relaxed, and the fish are more active at this time.
- Few things, however, can compare to the feeling of fishing as the sun begins to set.
- The lagoon is relatively shallow, with water separated from the sea by a network of sand bars, low banks, and fringing coral reefs.
- Your guide should know where the best fishing spots are and direct you there.
- Seer, mullet, pomfret, herring, amberjack, and skipjack are among the fish available here.
- Aside from these, you might be lucky enough to catch a lobster, prawn, or shrimp!
- You can bait these species with anything from plugs and spoons to spinners and even live bait.
- It's time to head back after you've finished fishing.
- Consider grilling your catch and slathering it with some local sauces.
Negombo Nightlife
#fun
- Negombo is one of Sri Lanka's largest cities, but the nightlife isn't fascinating, despite being cosy.
- There are numerous cafes and bars with a dazzling and lively atmosphere, and all of these attractions have a relaxed yet pleasant vibe.
- Although it may not appear exciting, the small, laid-back cafes, bars, and restaurants ensure a memorable experience.
- The locals in the bars are also amiable.
- If you want to eat out for the night, you can choose from a delectable selection of food items that include both local delicacies and international favourites.
- Lords, Sherry Land, and Rodeo are the three most popular places to spend an evening while sipping a cold beer.
- The best is that they are all within walking distance of one another and provide a relaxing atmosphere throughout the night.
- Local bands will take the stage on certain days to entertain visitors with classic oldies favourites and the latest songs.
- Numerous resort properties dotted along Negombo's coast provide a surreal and romantic setting for a candlelight dinner with your loved one.
- After a hearty dinner, you could take a walk along the beach under the stars, reminiscing about beautiful memories you've made together!
- A beach party is a way to go if you want to create a more exciting atmosphere.
- Most hotels in the area host beach parties, which usually include a variety of drunk cocktails, D.J. music, and a live band.
- These parties also offer special deals on drinks and food.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Negombo: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- Udawalawe National Park private safari from Negombo region
- Explore Udawalawe National Park, the best park to spot elephants in Sri Lanka.
- See these gentle giants up close in the park's rescue centre, then enjoy a private 4x4 safari around the park.
- Udawalawe was established to provide shelter for wild animals displaced due to the construction of the Udawalawe Dam, and it's now a popular tourist destination.
- Visit the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned baby elephants are cared for after rescue from the wild.
- Then enjoy two hours of discovery and fun on a jeep tour.
- You'll stop at a huge reservoir, a perfect place for spotting elephants, water birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Recharge your batteries with a traditional lunch at a restaurant in Udawalawa before heading back to your hotel.
- Safari in Minneriya National Park from Negombo
- Minneriya National Park, the most important known meeting place for Asian elephants, provides a natural corridor among tropical dry mixed evergreen forests that attracts herds of these wild animals.
- Watch as the world's most significant mammal searches for food and water near the shores of a rainwater reservoir.
- Bring a pair of binoculars to examine over 170 bird species, including the woodsand piper, Rufus woodpecker, and lesser adjutant.
- Many endemic amphibians and reptiles can also be found in the wildlife reserve.
- Regardless of how calm it appears, keep a safe distance from the mugger crocodile.
- Evening Safari in Minneriya National Park from Negombo
- Enjoy this incredible evening elephant safari at Minneriya National Park, including all necessary amenities.
- Travel in style in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver guide.
- Minneriya National Park has situated in the heart of Sri Lanka's famous rainforest cultural triangle.
- It is best known for its incredible elephant migration, one of Asia's best wildlife experiences.
- In addition to jumbos, the park is home to 24 mammals, including toque macaque monkeys, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild buffalo, porcupine, wild boar, and mongoose.
- Leopards are present in the park, though less common than in Yala.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Negombo Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- Festivals and Events in Negombo
- Festivals and Events in Negombo cover a wide range of topics.
- Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Muslim festivals are among them.
- Festivals and Events in Negombo enliven the people of Negombo and provide a break from the monotony of daily life.
- Because it is located on the coast, fishing is the primary occupation of the people of Negombo.
- This island's fishermen celebrate the Fisherman's Festival, which takes place in late July.
- Various festivals occur throughout the year, and this festival serves specific social needs while also celebrating life.
- Negombo's Festivals and Events are celebrated with great pomp and show.
- The beaches are beautifully decorated, and the seafood is abundant.
- Seafood is a big draw during festival season, and the most popular items are lobsters, crabs, and prawns.
- Negombo has much more to offer than festivals and events.
- The fishing market in Negombo is also a popular attraction, and the fish market is constantly crowded throughout the day.
- Many fishes can be found in abundance, and Crab, lobster, prawns, and sharks are delicious in the sea.
- Despite its stench, the location is a popular tourist destination.
- Negombo has a plethora of attractions to offer. There name a few, there is Muthurajawela Marsh, a Buddhist temple in Kelaniya, Negombo, the Old Dutch Fort gate, and the Dutch Canal.
- Negombo beach food festival
- Beach towns in Sri Lanka come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
- Great food with a wide variety of seafood, good booze, glorious sunsets, happening vibes, and a plethora of beautiful resorts to choose from – the elements that make up a town like that is very similar.
- Negombo is one of the country's most famous beach resorts, and it is still licking its wounds from this year's tragic Easter Sunday events.
- They're taking baby steps to restore Negombo to its former glory, and the first step is the Negombo Beach Food Festival.
FAQs to Plan Your Best Negombo Holiday
Places similar to Negombo to visit
Places similar to Negombo to visit
Places similar to Negombo to visit