Negombo, a charming coastal town in Sri Lanka, offers a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. Located just north of Colombo, it has something for everyone. Let’s explore the best tourist attractions in Negombo.
Negombo Beach
Negombo Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Sri Lanka. With its golden sands and clear blue waters, it’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, and water sports. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing, and dining at beachfront restaurants.
Negombo Lagoon
Negombo Lagoon is known for its beautiful nature and wildlife. Surrounded by mangroves, the lagoon is great for boat tours, traditional fishing with local fishermen, and bird watching to spot various species like herons and kingfishers.
St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is a beautiful and historic church in Negombo with impressive architecture and lovely frescoes. Visitors can admire the grand design, explore colorful paintings, and learn about the church’s history.
Dutch Fort
The Dutch Fort in Negombo is a historical site built by the Portuguese and later strengthened by the Dutch. It offers insight into the past with its colonial design and scenic views.
Negombo Fish Market
The Negombo Fish Market, also known as “Lellama,” is one of the largest in Sri Lanka. It’s a bustling place where you can see the daily life of fishermen, experience the lively atmosphere, buy fresh fish and seafood, and understand the local fishing industry.
Muthurajawela Marsh
Muthurajawela Marsh is a large wetland area near Negombo, known for its rich biodiversity. Activities include boat safaris to see wildlife, bird watching, and eco-tours to learn about the ecosystem.
Angurukaramulla Temple
Angurukaramulla Temple is a significant Buddhist site known for its large Buddha statue and ancient murals. Visitors can marvel at the giant statue, look at the old paintings and carvings, and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Hamilton Canal
The Hamilton Canal, also called the Dutch Canal, is a historic waterway running through Negombo. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride, learn about the canal’s history, and appreciate the views along the canal.
Negombo Nightlife
Negombo’s nightlife includes beach bars, pubs, and clubs, offering many options for evening entertainment like relaxing with a drink, enjoying a night out, and listening to live music.
Negombo’s Cuisine
Negombo is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Sri Lankan food. Must-try dishes include fresh fish, prawns, crabs, traditional curry with rice, and local snacks and sweets.
Shopping in Negombo
Negombo offers various shopping experiences, from markets to boutiques. Explore local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods, shop for unique gifts and souvenirs at boutiques, and visit malls for a wide selection of products.
Negombo’s Festivals
Negombo hosts several festivals that celebrate its rich culture. Major festivals include the Negombo Beach Festival with music, dance, and food, St. Anne’s Feast with religious processions, and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations.
Accommodation in Negombo
Negombo has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including luxury resorts with high-end amenities, boutique hotels with personalized service, and budget-friendly guesthouses.
Getting Around Negombo
Getting around Negombo is easy with various transportation options like affordable tuk-tuks, convenient taxis for longer trips, and bike rentals for exploring on your own.
Negombo for Families
Negombo is family-friendly with activities for all ages. Enjoy fun beach days, explore history and culture on cultural tours, and visit the lagoon and marsh for wildlife adventures.
Negombo for Couples
Negombo offers romantic settings for couples with activities like sunset cruises, candlelit beach dinners, and relaxing spa days together.
Negombo for Adventure Seekers
Negombo has many adventure activities like water sports (windsurfing, kitesurfing, and diving), wildlife safaris, and cycling tours to discover the town by bike.
Negombo’s Art and Culture
Negombo’s art and culture reflect its rich history and diversity. Explore local galleries, traditional performances, and cultural sites to fully experience the town’s artistic heritage.