Joanna James
With an idyllic location along Sri Lanka's west coast, Negombo offers the perfect getaway by the beach where you can enjoy some cultural experiences too. Of course, it always helps to know more about a destination before a visit and here are some interesting things about this city.
As mentioned, Negombo lies along the west coast and is situated in quite a convenient and strategic location. The island's Bandaranaike International Airport is only about a 15-minute drive away, meaning you can enjoy the sun, sand and surf soon after you arrive! This city is only around 37 km from the commercial capital, Colombo, and within easy reach of areas like Wattala, making it an ideal holiday destination. Apart from driving or hiring a vehicle with a driver, you can also access this coastal hotspot by way of public busses or trains making it easy to reach too.
While the golden sandy beach of Negombo is a great place to soak up the sun, this coastal city also offers thrilling water sports in Sri Lanka be it out at sea or in the lagoon. One of the most popular activities is kitesurfing and the excellent wind conditions provide plenty of speed-filled excitement on the water. For more adrenaline-pumping action there is jet skiing, while families can look to enjoy snorkelling and fun banana boat rides. Catamaran sailing is another engaging water sport to try along with kayaking and scuba diving at more than 20 sites off the coast.
Be you staying in Negombo or at a hotel in Wattala or Colombo within easy reach of the city, planning a tour is not hard to do and will offer many insightful discoveries. This part of the island is known as "Little Rome" due to the many Roman Catholic churches here including those that date back to Portuguese colonial times; a key site amongst these churches is the Neoclassical-style St. Mary's Church. One of the most popular attractions in Negombo, the Dutch Canal is an ideal place to enjoy a boat cruise, while other top spots include the Angurukaramulla Temple and the Main Fish Market.
Apart from its coastal beauty, Negombo is also blessed with natural wonders of which, a key site is the Muthurajawela Marsh. An ideal place to explore on excursions from properties such as Pegasus Reef Hotel, this marsh forms an invaluable part of a wetland eco-system that thrives with flora and fauna. Those interested in birdwatching in Sri Lanka have much to enjoy here too including the chance to spot kingfishers, purple herons, black bitterns and more.
Negombo has also gained quite a reputation amongst local and foreign foodies since the city has an eclectic array of dining options be it offering local or international favourites. As you would expect, seafood is very popular here including fish, lobster, shrimp or crab caught out at sea or in the nearby lagoon. Apart from the restaurants in Negombo, one can also enjoy beach dining which provides a truly magical experience.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
