Negombo is a small city just 37 km north of Colombo. Its convenient location makes it a great first stop when exploring Sri Lanka. The large stretch of golden sand makes Negombo a popular beach destination. While the impressive 3000-hectare lagoon is home to a wealth of wildlife and a perfect place for spotting crocodiles! We’ve put together a list of things to do and places to eat so that you can make the most out of your visit to Negombo.
Credit: Eelke on Flickr
How to get to Negombo
Bandaranaike International Airport is, in fact, closer to Negombo than it is to Colombo, allowing you to avoid the commercial centre altogether. The main mode of transport is the tuk-tuk and there will be plenty of these ready to take you on to your villa in Negombo. You will find yourself amazed by exactly how much luggage can be squeezed into a tuk-tuk. But for those who prefer to travel in comfort, opt for a standard taxi and be prepared to haggle!
Things to know before you go to Negombo
Negombo is known as a beach resort and the main industries are tourism and fishing. If you are looking for Sri Lanka’s famed surf spots, Negombo is not for you. The wide beach and calm, safe seas are family friendly and relaxing. However, there are still water sports available, including great dive spots. Sea food is a big draw of Negombo and the ancient fishing traditions can still be witnessed up and down the coastline. Therefore be sure to keep an eye out for fisherman perched on stilts along the water’s edge.
What to see and do in Negombo
Negombo is not just another beach resort. While the wide sandy beach is the main attraction, nature lovers will be pleased to find plenty opportunities to experience Sri Lanka’s native species.
Muthurajawela Marsh
Muthurajawela Marsh or ‘Swamp of Royal Treasure’ in English, is exactly that. While this unique habitat attracts a wealth of wildlife it also attracts tourists all hoping to catch a glimpse of the crocodiles! The best and only way to explore this area at the edge of Negombo Lagoon is by boat. Tour operators offer guided boat tours with guides knowledgeable on the local wildlife. With over a hundred bird species calling this wetland home, and monkeys and otters spotted daily. This is a great place to take in Sri Lanka’s wildlife.
Sarath Boat tours offers a half day tour through the lagoon and onto the marshland spotting crocodiles as you go. The small boats and knowledgeable guide give a true jungle experience.
Angurukaramulla Temple
Located in the eastern areas of the town, the Angurukaramulla Temple wows visitors with its impressive entrance. Visitors enter the compounds of the temple through the open mouth of a dragon, located beneath a towering Buddha statue measuring six metres in height.
The large temple compound and intricate and colourful murals offer visitors plenty to explore. These works depict the Buddha’s journey to enlightenment, as well as the historical stories of Sri Lanka’s former rulers. With the 6-metre high Buddha statue, you can marvel at the history and culture of Sri Lanka whilst getting a welcome break from the sun-drenched beaches.
Diving
The crystal blue sea is certainly tempting and Negombo’s calm surf is perfect for cooling off. But if you want to see more of Sri Lanka’s beauty we recommend venturing under the sea! A dive tour will allow you to experience the stunning marine wildlife and coral sea bed, whilst having the security of a knowledgeable and experienced dive guide.
Sri Lanka Diving Tours offer an 8-day diving itinerary allowing you to fully explore the Sri Lanka’s marine wildlife. If you are new to driving Sri Lanka Diving tours are PADI certified and their helpful instructors will get you certified in no time. They even offer a free trial dive in a pool so you can decide if diving is right for you.
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