Negombo

Negombo is a quiet town on the west coast of Sri Lanka located 10 km from Bandaranaike International Airport. Deriving its name from the Negombo lagoon, the modest village is known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise-blue waters. Popular for being a beach resort town, it is also one of the important commercial hubs in the country.

Having a rich history in the trade of spices and seafood, the town today has become one of the most visited places in the country. Even today, one can see the reflections of the city’s Dutch and Portuguese history in its food, architecture and people. However, Negombo’s most distinct attraction is its thriving Fishing Village, where you can enjoy seafood, shop at the fish market, stroll the beach and go on guided deep-sea fishing tours.

Make a stop at the city’s most prominent shrine, Angurukaramulla Temple, displaying a giant Buddha, and St. Mary’s Church, studded with old paintings. All three can be explored via scenic boat rides on the Hamilton Dutch Canal, which runs through the heart of the town. You can also unwind at the Negombo Lagoon and Muthurajawela Marsh, where posh resorts offer scenic eateries.

Near the waterfront, the remains of the 17th-century Dutch Fort now house town prisons. The city’s most popular beach with turquoise blue waters is Negombo Beach, presenting opportunities for kitesurfing, sailing, windsurfing, catamaran dining and more. Browns Beach is coveted for midnight swimming sprees. Further inland, you can shop for handicrafts and trinkets at Beach Road Market and sample local curries at Negombo Shopping Plaza.