10 things to do in Negombo

Negombo beach

Negombo fishing

Hamilton Canal

Sri Singama Kali Amman Kovil

St. Mary's Church

Mad Dogs

• Surrounded by a breathtaking view of the ocean and greeted by friendly smiles, the town of Negombo, also known by the term ‘Little Rome,’ is a part of both the Dutch and Portuguese footprint in Sri Lanka. The unique attractions, amiable people and the shore lined with fisherman’s shacks and fresh catches makes it a paradise for seafood lovers and the perfect spot for first-time travellers in Sri Lanka. Treating the adventurous spirit, here are 10 things that one can do in this modest coastal town

Sand, sea and a sunset stroll

The golden beach in Negombo is an oasis of serenity amidst the bustling city of tourists. Not second to the many spectacular beaches in the island, at the views of sunset is absolutely stunning and a walk along the shore with feet buried under the warm sand is without a doubt, calming to the mind and body. Perfect for a restful holiday or romantic getaway is the Heritance Negombo, a property that boasts of the widest beach front for a hotel in Sri Lanka.  With a striking beach frontage where families and couples alike can revel in the azure waters, in-house guests are even encouraged to be part of the local culture by working alongside the fishermen to haul their daily catch.

A whiff of tradition at the fishing village

Negombo is a known as a fishing village of sorts and the locals are experts in the business. If one spend some time watching the fishing boats return to the shore, which is quite a sight, they will be treated with freshest seafood in the island. The Negombo Fish Market, a bustling space where daily catch is displayed in all its glory, locals haggle for the best price for the seafood and kids play in huddles oblivious to the commotions taking place is a unique experience – a ‘must-do’ if you stop by Negombo.

Ride along the Hamilton Canal

Constructed by the British, the Hamilton Canal passes through Negombo (stretching across Puttalam to Colombo) and was used by the Dutch as a supply route, once upon a time. Today, a boat tour of this narrow canal or a bicycle ride along it in the morning will give you a glimpse of the traditional Sri Lankan culture as fishermen carry out trade and the villagers start their day on either side. 

Take a religious tour

Among the key factors that make Negombo popular, its many churches that decorate the road takes pride of place. With predominately a Catholic background, the beautiful stained-glass paintings, high arches and beautiful architecture of the churches bear witness to centuries of prayer and faith. While most hotels around the area offer this tour, it is best to book this with a known service provider.

Visit the Angurakaramulla temple

However, given the religious harmony of those in the area, the city is also lined with places of worship of other religions. The Angurakaramulla temple is a 300+ year old with amazingly built sculptures with fine detailing including a dragon entrance and Buddha statue that is a reflection of the Sri Lankan heritage. Stories of ancient beliefs and rulers surround the temple making this ancient temple a most sought-after tourist attraction. 

Ruins of the Dutch Fort

Built in 1640, the Dutch Fort was a significant location during the colonial times, and today the ruins remain to remind us of the glory of cinnamon trade. Located at the seafront close to the lagoon mouth, the fort grounds are now part of the Negombo Prison compound. However, overlooking this is the St. Stephen’s Anglican Church which is over 300 years old but still possesses its original gothic design. Taking time from your schedule to visit these places is definitely a worthwhile trip.

Get your feet wet at the Muthurajawela wetlands

Home to numerous species of birds, butterflies and fish, the excursion to Muthurajawela wetlands is a rare opportunity for nature lovers as the habitat holds over 192 species of flora and 164 species of fauna, including Sri Lanka’s largest snake, the python. So much diversity in such a congested city!

Shipwrecks, coral reefs and watersports

For the adventurous, diving is an ideal activity in Negombo to experience and explore the coral reefs and the historical remnants of the Kudapaduwa shipwreck. The Negombo beach is also an excellent location for water based sports activities from catamaran racing to kiting.

Taste the fresh produce

A vacation by the beach is not complete without savouring the fresh seafood! While there are many haunts by Lewis Place, a road that is home to many a hotel, The Banyan, located right across Heritance Negombo is a space that provides an array of dishes with indoor and outdoor seating. Don’t be fooled by its name, the Mad Dogs restaurant, part of the promenade serves delectable seafood dishes and tapas (although their other meats are equally on point) while the Mad Dogs Bodega is for those who would like to sip a glass of red or white and enjoy a meal. The Rouge Lounge, also part of the promenade is a bar with an extensive selection and the Swiss Bakery and Café is ‘the’ place for quick fix meals, savouries and snacks. Once a week, a live entertainment show takes place. Word has it that there are many a food festival happening here, almost monthly! (More details at facebook.com/HNegombo) 

Rekindle your spirit

Take a break from all the exploring and enjoy a quiet afternoon by the pool sipping on your favourite concoctions or take a stroll along the beach for a therapeutic and relaxing time. Heritance Negombo, with its dazzling pool and stunning beach, is again, an ideal vacation spot in the area. The hotel also offers spa and gym, for those who wish to engage. Leave Negombo on a balanced mindset with a break at a home away from home, in a luxurious space such as Heritance Negombo.

Heritance Negombo