Negombo Travel Guide

Negombo Travel Guide

Negombo is a charming coastal town located just 37 km (23 miles) north of Colombo and only about 10 km (6 miles) from Sri Lanka's main international airport (Bandaranaike International Airport). With its golden sandy beaches, rich history, vibrant markets, and peaceful lagoons, Negombo is a popular destination for both short-term visitors and those looking to unwind by the sea. The town is famous for its seafood, colonial architecture, and proximity to lush lagoons and the ocean.

How to Get There

• By Air: Bandaranaike International Airport is the nearest airport, only a 20-minute drive from Negombo. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available at the airport.
• By Train: Negombo is connected to Colombo and other cities by rail. The train journey from Colombo to Negombo takes about 1 hour.
• By Bus: Buses from Colombo to Negombo operate frequently and are one of the cheapest ways to travel, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
• By Car: You can drive or hire a taxi from Colombo, taking around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

Best Time to Visit

• November to April: This is the best time to visit, with warm temperatures and dry weather ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
• May to October: Monsoon season brings rain, but the prices drop, and you can enjoy fewer tourists.

Top Attractions in Negombo

1. Negombo Beach

The golden sandy beaches of Negombo are the main draw for tourists. Stretching along the Indian Ocean, the beach is lined with palm trees, hotels, and seafood restaurants. It's a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. The sunsets here are spectacular.

• Activities: Water sports, fishing, boat rides, or just relaxing by the sea.

2. Dutch Fort

Originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, the Negombo Fort stands as a symbol of the town's colonial past. Although only remnants of the fort remain today, it offers a glimpse into the rich history of Negombo.

• Location: Near the lagoon entrance, close to the fishing harbor.

3. Negombo Lagoon

The expansive lagoon is rich in biodiversity, offering tranquil boat rides where you can observe mangroves, birds, and fish. The local fishermen often use traditional outrigger canoes here, and you can take a lagoon tour to learn about the fishing industry and explore the water channels.

• Activities: Birdwatching, boat safaris, and fishing tours.

4. St. Mary’s Church

Negombo has a strong Christian heritage due to Portuguese influence, and St. Mary’s Church is one of the largest cathedrals in Sri Lanka. With beautiful painted ceilings and intricate architecture, it’s a peaceful spot to explore.

• Location: In the town center, easy to reach on foot or by tuk-tuk.

5. Dutch Canal

This canal was originally built by the Dutch during the colonial period and stretches along the coastline. You can take a boat ride along the canal to experience the local lifestyle, passing through villages, coconut plantations, and fishermen's homes.

6. Fish Market (Lellama)

One of the biggest fish markets in Sri Lanka, Lellama is located near the lagoon. Arrive early in the morning to witness the bustling activity as fishermen bring in their fresh catch of the day. It’s an authentic experience where you can see a wide variety of seafood.

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 6:00 AM) to see the fish auctions.

7. Angurukaramulla Temple

This ancient Buddhist temple is home to a massive 6-meter-tall (20-foot) Buddha statue and beautiful murals depicting the teachings of Buddhism. The temple is a serene place, and its dragon entrance adds a mystical touch to the experience.

Things to Do in Negombo

1. Water Sports: Enjoy activities such as windsurfing, kite surfing, and jet skiing at the beach.
2. Boat Tours: Take a traditional boat tour along the Negombo Lagoon or through the Dutch Canal.
3. Fishing: Join a local fishing crew for a day at sea or opt for a fishing tour organized by a local guide.
4. Culinary Tours: Sample the town's famous seafood. Crab curry, grilled prawns, and lobsters are among the popular dishes.
5. Shopping: Negombo’s markets are filled with spices, batik textiles, jewelry, and handmade crafts, perfect for souvenir shopping.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels:

• Jetwing Beach: Located right on the beachfront, Jetwing Beach offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and fine dining.
• Heritance Negombo: A 5-star beachfront hotel known for its excellent service, modern amenities, and large pool.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Goldi Sands Hotel: A beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms, a pool, and easy access to the beach.
• The Beach All Suite Hotel: Spacious suites overlooking the ocean, ideal for families or extended stays.

Budget Accommodations:

• Rani Beach Resort: A budget-friendly resort offering simple accommodations right on the beach.
• Marine Tourist Guest House: A cozy guesthouse with clean rooms, ideal for budget travelers.

Dining in Negombo

1. Lords Restaurant: A popular spot serving Sri Lankan and international cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood.
2. The Lagoon: A beachfront restaurant offering a wide selection of seafood dishes.
3. Prego Italian Restaurant: For a change of pace, Prego offers delicious Italian dishes like pizza and pasta.
4. The Rodeo Pub & Restaurant: A great spot for casual dining and drinks, offering Sri Lankan and Western cuisine.

Practical Information

• Language: Sinhala and Tamil are the main languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
• Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
• Safety: Negombo is generally safe, but it's advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.
• Transportation: Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient mode of transportation within Negombo. You can also rent a bike or motorbike.

Day Trips from Negombo

1. Colombo: The capital city is only a short drive away and offers a vibrant urban experience with historic landmarks, shopping, and dining.
2. Muthurajawela Marsh: A stunning wetland ecosystem located south of Negombo, ideal for nature lovers. You can take a boat tour to explore its diverse wildlife.
3. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Located about 2 hours from Negombo, this sanctuary is a popular day trip where visitors can see rescued elephants.

Final Tips

• Tipping: It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and for services like hotel staff and drivers.
• Dress Code: While the beach and resort areas are relaxed, modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites.
• Sun Protection: Always carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun can be intense, especially during the dry season.

Negombo offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the coastal charm of Sri Lanka.