Overview
Negombo is known for its long sandy beaches and centuries old fishing industry. Negombo has a large bilingual (Sinhala/Tamil) population with a clear Roman Catholic majority. Negombo’s beach fronts are the primary motive for travellers visiting this city. The golden beaches and stunning hideaways on the seaside complete your holiday in this city.
Negambo Fish Markert – ‘Lellama’ Fish Market, the second largest market in the country. See fresh daily catch of different types of fish and seafood. The Negombo fish market is where tourists can experience the wide range of seafood fishermen bring in every morning. The dry fish market sees fish being laid out to dry under the sun, before being salted and shipped. The adjacent wet fish market sells tuna, mackerel, squid, sardines, sharks and the like. Early morning visitors can witness fishermen laying out their catch, and get the freshest of fish on sale. Along with the fish, tiny churches can be spotted around the market.
Hamilton Canal – This canal, named for Government Agent of Revenue and Commerce Gavin Hamilton, connects Puttalam and Colombo through Negombo. Its purpose is to drain saltwater from the Muthurajawela marshes and ease transportation to the seaport. Visitors may stroll or ride their bikes along the walkways that run beside the Hamilton Canal, admiring the beauty of Negombo and its little towns along the route. Locals also provide canal boat trips.
Negombo Lagoon – Negombo Lagoon is a large lagoon in south-west Sri Lanka with several small rivers and canals, with the Indian Ocean towards the north. The water body is full of numerous varieties of fish, crabs and lobsters that make it an excellent location for fishers. Tourists enjoy the relaxing boating ride on the lagoon and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Negombo Lagoon is known for its rich and flourishing biodiversity which spans over an area of about 35 square kilometres although it is only a few meters in depth. It has a wide variety of flora, fauna and mangrove forest that accounts for its ecotourism and conservation efforts. Negombo is a tourist hotspot with an extensive network of hotels, safe transport and certified guides which help in carefully exploring the area.There is a boating ride which starts in the Dutch Canal and leads its way into the lagoon. Private boats are also present well equipped with life jackets and safety equipment and follow strict safety procedures to ensure a smooth tour for the guests. The boat ride also offers light refreshments throughout the journey.
Muthurajawela wetlands – Muthurajawela’s rich wetland habitat is home to herons, cormorants, kingfishers, lapwings, and other birds of prey, including kites and sea eagles. Tourists may take boat excursions across the marshlands in the early morning or late at night. They may also see the Toque Macaque, fisherman in the lagoon, catamarans coming from sea, and the region’s over 194 varieties of flora.
Negombo Beach – Negombo Beach is a popular tourist destination that draws visitors from all over the world. It is a collection of little beaches, each one lovely and captivating. In Western Sri Lanka, it is a popular coastal location. The beach offers a vast stretch that is ideal for long walks while admiring the beautiful palm palms. The beach provides a genuine Sri Lankan beach experience, complete with golden sand, crystal water, palm trees, and beautiful tropical weather. The beach is rarely crowded, and sunbathing on the beautiful sand is simple.Negombo is a tiny town with a rich history. The beaches provide travelers with an opportunity to rest, unwind, and get away from the rush and bustle of city life.
St. Mary’s Church – St. Mary’s Church, located in the centre of Negombo, is one of Sri Lanka’s biggest cathedrals. Despite the fact that Negombo is a multi-religious city, Roman Catholics constitute the majority of the population.St. Mary’s Church, also known as the ‘Maha Veediya Palliya,’ appears to soar above other structures in Negombo, often known as ‘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 visitors alike may participate in the morning prayers held beneath the Church’s wonderfully adorned ceiling and enjoy the light that shines through the stained glass windows.
TAKE A TOUR OF THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS
- Negombo Fish Markert
- Hamilton Canal
- Negombo Lagoon
- Muthurajawela wetlands
- St. Mary’s Church
