Things to do with your kids in Negombo – times of frolicking and learning

Move through an enchanting wetland by boat and have a local educate you on the history, value and appeal contained within the famed Muthurajawela Marsh. Located in Negombo’s lagoon, the Muthurajawela Marsh was the brainchild of the Portuguese colonists and during a particular point in time, the said attraction was a bountiful land where rice was harvested. Associated with peace, tranquillity and laidback lifestyles, the Muthurajawela Marsh will escort you to a unique ecosystem consisting of a wide array of birdlife including herons and kingfishers coupled with numerous reptilian species such as crocodiles. A visit to this part of Negombo will be an excellent means of settling down on your holiday with those who matter to you the most.

Negombo’s Main Fish Market is often a hub of hullaballoo, particularly during the early hours of the day. Thus, factor in the possibility of taking the kids to one of the city’s most captivating sights where buyers and sellers commune in their numbers. Watch as the daily catch is brought in from the fishing boats and if you happen to be carrying your trusty cam with you, there herein lies a chance to snap up pictures that will surely linger long in your memory.

Showcasing a shade of pink across its massive exterior that can be caught sight of from far off, Negombo’s St. Mary’s Church is a Roman Catholic church that has served the local community for many a year. Flanked by lush greenery on either side of its entrance, St. Mary’s Church is best visited during Sunday Mass but if you want to stay clear of crowds of devotees, then it is recommended that you head over during any day of the work week. During this time, you will be well placed to marvel at the Church’s paintings and its stunning architecture which bears features of the neoclassical school of thought.

Characterised by a dragon head at its entrance which is dwarfed by a 6-meter-tall Buddha statuette, the impressive yet serenely appointed Angurukaramulla Temple is a ‘must’ when traversing through Negombo. While you must be seen decently attired prior to entry, time spent here will be fulfilling indeed as you will have an opportunity to inspect murals and sculptures that date back centuries. Worthy of mention is the Temple’s ceiling paintings that bring to light the Buddha’s journey to enlightenment. The ruins of an ancient library are also found on the premises while the grounds are expansive and convenient to access with trees offering much-needed comfort and respite from the sun.      

The primary stretch of beach in these parts is undoubtedly, Negombo Beach. Located a short distance from Heritance Negombo which is among the decent beach hotels in Negombo that you can be accommodated at with your family, Negombo Beach is a haven for the young as well as the young at heart. Allow the little ones to build sandcastles or play around in the water as you bask on a sunbed and forget every care in the world. The ideal time for a visit will be either during the morning or evening. Should you be here on a weekend, then expect the area to be packed to the rafters with like-minded beach bums and leisure enthusiasts.