Discover the Charm of Negombo, Western Province
Experience the blend of culture, history, and beach relaxation in Negombo, Sri Lanka's captivating coastal town.
Negombo, located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, is a picturesque coastal town that seamlessly combines natural beauty with cultural richness. Renowned for its stunning beaches and bustling fishing harbor, it serves as a gateway for travelers exploring the island. The long stretches of golden sands invite relaxation and water sports, making it a popular destination for beach lovers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing, appealing to both thrill-seekers and those looking to unwind. The town is steeped in history, with influences from Portuguese and Dutch colonial times evident in its architecture. A must-visit is the iconic St. Mary's Church, known for its impressive Gothic style and beautiful frescoes. The nearby Dutch Canal, originally constructed for transportation, now offers scenic walks and boat rides, providing a unique perspective of the town's heritage. Moreover, Negombo’s vibrant local markets brim with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and handcrafted souvenirs, offering an authentic taste of Sri Lankan culture. As the sun sets, the town transforms into a lively hub of restaurants and bars where visitors can savor delicious local cuisine, including the famed Sri Lankan curry. With its friendly locals, a wealth of activities, and a charming atmosphere, Negombo is an ideal destination for tourists seeking an enriching experience in Sri Lanka.
Local tips
- Visit the local fish market early in the morning to witness the vibrant local fishing trade.
- Try a boat tour on the Dutch Canal for a unique view of the town and its surroundings.
- Don't miss tasting the traditional Sri Lankan seafood curry at one of the local restaurants.
A brief summary to Negombo, Western Province
- 6V2F+8F7, Negombo, LK
Getting There
-
Public Bus
To get to the center of Negombo from any location, head to the nearest bus stop. Look for buses heading towards Negombo Town. The bus fare is very affordable (around 50 LKR). Buses run frequently, approximately every 15-30 minutes. Once on the bus, inform the conductor that you want to get off at Negombo Town. The bus will take you through various local areas, and you'll arrive at the main bus station in Negombo.
-
Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a tuk-tuk. Simply wave one down from the street or ask your hotel to call one for you. Negotiate the fare before getting in; a typical ride within Negombo should cost between 200 to 500 LKR depending on the distance. Provide the driver with your destination, and they will take you directly there, navigating through the local streets.
-
Walking
If you are staying close to the center of Negombo, walking is a great option to explore the area. Use a map application on your phone for guidance. As you walk, head towards the beach area or the main commercial streets like Lewis Place and St. Anthony's Church. Along the way, you can stop by local shops and eateries to experience the local culture.
-
Bicycle Rental
Many places in Negombo offer bicycle rentals. Look for rental shops near your accommodation. Rates are usually around 500 LKR per day. Once you have a bicycle, you can ride along the beachfront or explore the quieter streets of Negombo. This is a great way to cover more ground and see attractions like the Dutch Canal and local markets at your own pace.
Attractions Nearby to Negombo, Western Province
- St. Marys Shrine
- Angurukaramulla Temple (Bodhirajaramaya)
- Christ the King Statue
- Shrine of Our Lady of Katunayake
- St. Joseph's Church - Thillanduwa, Malwatta | සා. ජෝශප් දේවස්ථානය - තිල්ලන්දූව, මල්වත්ත
- Rukmani Devi Park
- Rajapaksha park
- CORONATION Boat House
- Negombo Saturday Market
- tuktukrental.com (Official Tuktuk Rental Sri Lanka)
- St. Peter's Church - Negombo
- Sri Lanka Happy Tours
- Velankanni Church, Negombo
- Awariwatta clock tower
- Our Lady of Snows' Church (තුෂාරයේ අප ස්වාමිදුවගේ දෙව්මැදුර - පෙරියමුල්ල)
Landmarks nearby to Negombo, Western Province
- Ramayana Tours - Sri Lanka
- Negombo, Western Province
- Leaf on Lagoon Villa
- House of seya
- Optimum Residencies Negombo
- Yohan Tours Srilanka
- Travel Right Sri Lanka
- Faith Tours
- Krishan Villa
- Bird Watching Tours in Sri Lanka
- Coco Home
- St. Sebastian's Church, Katuwapitiya | සාන්ත සෙබස්තියන් දේවස්ථානය - කටුවාපිටිය
- Sasha Food Court
- Blooming Lanka Tours (Pvt) Ltd
- Absolute Lanka Tours (PVT) LTD : Sri Lanka Tailor-made Holidays Specialists