Negombo

A vibrant coastal city with a rich colonial heritage, Negombo is known for its golden beaches, bustling fish markets, and scenic canals

Negombo town is the closest attraction to the Bandaranaike International Airport. It provides the most convenient break for weary travellers who first arrive in Sri Lanka. It is not a destination many take time to explore, perhaps due to its proximity to the airport. Negombo has some of the best beaches on the west coast of the island.

Negombo became strategic for cinnamon trade during the Dutch period, and the European influence is very much still visible here. The town has an exquisite collection of churches, and it is a reflection of the town’s strong catholic influence. And if you thought, this seaside town is all about beaches; wait till you discover the Negombo lagoon.

Hidden Gems

Duwa is a fishing island connected to the mainland and hosts the famous Easter passion play.
Duwa coral reef is a diving destination for marine life, a famous plane wreck, and a shipwreck.
Angurukaramulla is a Buddhist temple with murals, ruins, statues, and carvings.
Lellama sells some of the freshest fish with the catch of the day hauled straight in.
Sebastian church is a Gothic Revival style Catholic church attracting many visitors.

Best Times to Visit

Negombo is a year-round destination.

Weather

Top Attractions

The church is one of the biggest cathedrals on the island and displays the amalgamation of neoclassical European and Sri Lankan architecture

St. Mary’s Church

The canal connects Puttalam to Colombo and passes through Negombo. It was built by the British to drain saltwater from Muthurajawela Wetlands

Hamilton Canal

This estuarine lagoon has extensive mangrove swamps where a variety of aquatic birds reside. It is famous for traditional lagoon fishing

The Lagoon

It is Sri Lanka’s second-largest open-air fish market. Hundreds of boats bring their daily catch here, and fish get distributed across the country.

Fishing Village

Only the eastern ramparts of the fort remain. Built by the Portuguese, it was captured by the Dutch and later by the British, who made it into a prison

Dutch Fort

A lively golden shoreline ideal for relaxation and water activities, Negombo Beach is known for its soft sands, gentle waves, and stunning sunsets