Negombo

About Negombo

Welcome to Negombo, the vibrant coastal city that serves as the perfect gateway to your Sri Lankan adventure. Located just a short drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo is the ideal place to begin or end your journey, offering a fascinating blend of colonial history, bustling local life, and seaside charm. The city's rich past is visible in its beautiful churches, which have earned it the nickname 'Little Rome', and the historic Dutch Canal that winds through the town.

At its heart, Negombo is a historic fishing town. A visit to the Lellama fish market at dawn is a sensory experience, providing a raw and authentic look into the local fishing industry. The nearby Negombo Lagoon offers a tranquil escape, where you can take a boat safari through rich mangrove forests teeming with birdlife. While the main beach is a lively hub for local fishermen, it's also a wonderful place to enjoy a spectacular sunset and a fresh seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants.

Key Attractions & Experiences

• Visit the Lellama Fish Market: Experience the bustling atmosphere of one of Sri Lanka's largest fish markets, best visited in the early morning.
• Take a Dutch Canal Boat Trip: Enjoy a scenic journey along the historic canal built by the Dutch, observing local life and nature along its banks.
• Explore 'Little Rome': Discover Negombo's rich Catholic heritage by visiting its many grand and beautiful colonial-era churches.
• Enjoy a Negombo Lagoon Safari: Take a relaxing boat trip through the mangrove forests of the lagoon, a haven for many species of birds.
• Watch the Fishermen at Work: See the traditional outrigger canoes (oruwas) and the iconic sight of fish being laid out to dry on the beach.
• Relax on Negombo Beach: Unwind by the sea, watch the fishing boats come ashore, and enjoy a stunning west-coast sunset.