Listly by Joanna James
Negombo is a charming coastal town that has plenty to offer to its visitors. With its laidback vibe, beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and mouth-watering cuisine, Negombo is an ideal destination for travellers looking for a unique and authentic Sri Lankan experience.
Negombo beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka and is a must-visit destination for all beach lovers. The beach is known for its golden sand, turquoise water, and palm trees. You can spend your day relaxing on the beach, sunbathing, swimming, or taking a stroll along the shore. You can also try out various water sports activities like surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding, which are popular among tourists.
An easy drive from Heritance Negombo is the Dutch Canal, which is also known as Hamilton Canal. It is a 14-kilometre-long canal that was built by the Dutch during their colonial rule in Sri Lanka. The canal runs through Negombo and connects the town with other neighbouring towns. You can take a boat ride along the canal and witness the picturesque scenery, which includes mangrove forests, traditional fishing villages, and lush green paddy fields. The boat ride is a peaceful and relaxing experience that will take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Negombo Fish Market is one of the busiest and largest fish markets in Sri Lanka. It is a hub of activity, especially in the early morning when the fishermen bring in their fresh catch. You can witness the hustle and bustle of the market and see a variety of fish and seafood, including tuna, prawns, crabs, and lobsters. You can also buy fresh fish and have it cooked at one of the nearby restaurants.
The Angurukaramulla Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Negombo. It is known for its impressive Buddhist statues and wall paintings, which depict various scenes from Buddhist mythology. The temple is also home to a giant Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in Sri Lanka. You can learn about Sri Lankan culture and history by exploring the temple and listening to the stories and legends associated with it.
Sri Lankan cuisine is a unique blend of spices, flavours, and ingredients, which is influenced by the country's diverse cultural heritage. Negombo is famous for its seafood dishes, which include crab curry, prawn curry, and fish ambul thiyal. You can also try out other Sri Lankan delicacies like string hoppers, hoppers, and kottu roti, which are available at various restaurants, street vendors, and 5-star hotels in Negombo.
A catamaran ride is a unique and authentic experience that you can only have in Negombo. It is a traditional mode of transport that has been used by fishermen for centuries. You can take a ride on a catamaran and witness the fishing techniques used by the locals, including the use of Chinese fishing nets. It is a thrilling experience that will give you a glimpse into the local way of life and the importance of fishing in Sri Lankan culture. You can also enjoy the stunning sunset views during the ride, which makes for a perfect photo opportunity.