Joanna James
Negombo- the 04th largest city in Sri Lanka is a great destination to travel for several reasons. One will see Negombo as a 'Little Rome' thanks to the churches there, and a perfect coastal paradise because of the beaches. Plan your days in Negombo referring this guide for an amazing experience.
Negombo is a beach town, so why not try out an authentic fish market experience when you are there? The Negombo fish market opens at 6.00 am, so you won't find any issue with their timings. See how the fishermen try to make good deals with vendors and then, how these vendors try to make deals with the customers. They can be a little loud, but after all, that's what it means to be authentic! Bear the loudness because you find the freshest seafood here. And then it's all about getting it cooked Sri Lankan style!
Negombo Fort or the Dutch Fort is what brings a colonial touch for this coastal city. This fort has been constructed in 1672, and today, it's mostly about ruins which are still explorable. The authorities have decided to take a major part of this fort for one of the prisons, but the other side which has the gate and the Clock Tower can be visited and photographed as well.
Negombo is a city blessed with many beautiful churches, and St Mary's Church is indeed one of them. It has taken so long to complete this amazing church (from 1874 to 1922) and although you may see this church as a regular one you see in Sri Lanka, the art and architecture show very high familiarities with the European style. There are about 20 other churches in this area including the Saint Sebastian's Church.
Yes, most of the local community in Negombo are Catholics, but there are also temples for the Buddhists to pay their devotions. The main entrance to the Angurukaramulla Temple takes the shape of a mouth of a dragon and once you enter, you will be able to see several sculptures, paintings, and murals depicting various Buddhist stories and beliefs. Once you are done exploring the temple, just head to the old villa from the colonial times which is located right next to the temple premises. It's an abandoned place, but it's worth a small visit.
To provide you with dining and accommodation facilities Negombo hotels are more than willing to welcome you. There are many great options such as Amagi Hotels and they have the best of all hospitality services. If you've been on a vacation to Sri Lanka, allocate the day before the last to explore Negombo because you can go straight to the Bandaranaike International Airport from there within few minutes. Enjoy the Negombo beach as well before you say bye to this colonial town- Negombo because it's worth it.
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