Joanna James
A sought-after holiday location by many visitors due to its proximity to the main airport, Negombo is a multifaceted city welcoming visitors to enjoy not only the sun, sea and sand but also its colonial past, the blend of different cultures, the thriving fishing village and unique places of worship.
This Roman Catholic church is a landmark edifice in the city of Negombo and one of the largest cathedrals on the island. The construction of this unique church in a neo-classical style with touches of Sri Lankan art and architecture was completed in 1922. Visiting this prominent place of worship on the island is one of the first things done by many visitors at Negombo beach hotels.
This visit will be an enlightening one, not only to witness the fishing village and fish market but also to learn about their culture and the way of life too. Seemingly disorganized and noisy, yet there is an order. As the catch is brought in loads of fish seem to get dumped here and there for the auction and in no time the catch is disposed of. The many restaurants lining the fishing village get their stock fresh from the boats and it will be great to enjoy a platter of fish and chips right there as you see the fisherfolk settling down and preparing for the following day.
This large scenic lagoon is fed by many small rivers and canals thus making it a haven for various varieties of fish, crab, lobster etc and rich in flora and fauna. An ideal way to spend a morning or as a post-lunch excursion will be to enjoy a scenic boat ride down this lagoon as often enjoyed by guests at Club Hotel Dolphin.
Named after the British Agent of Revenue Garvin Hamilton who commenced construction of this canal stretching nearly 15 kilometres from Colombo to Negombo facilitating transportation of goods to the harbour. At present this canal serves as an exciting waterway tour for visitors to explore local life and the beauty of the nature you pass by.
With a long sandy stretch of beach, azure waters and swaying palms against a bright sky Negombo mesmerizes visitors to enjoy pleasurable walks, beach games, a dip in the ocean or simply check into a hotel close by to enjoy it all.
A place of worship for Buddhists, this oldest temple in the heart of Negombo is well known for the six-metre tall statue of Lord Buddha and the dragon head that guards the entrance to the temple. An impressive temple which gives you a sense of serenity as you walk into the premises. Be of modest dress and demeanour at this place of worship.
This Fort was constructed at the location of the previous Portuguese Fort which was on a narrow strip of land between an inlet of the sea and the Negombo lagoon. Surrounded by moats, the gate was accessed through a drawbridge. A big bell tower sat above the gate. Today one can witness only the ruins of this ancient fortification as the Fort was demolished by the British and the stones re-used to construct the Negombo Prison. A visit here is great to have an understanding of the colonial past of Negombo.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
