Welcome to Negombo, a vibrant coastal town located just a short distance from the bustling city of Colombo. With its golden sandy beaches, rich history, and delicious seafood, Negombo offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Get ready to unwind and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of this charming destination as we present to you the top reasons to visit, insider tips, and hand-picked city center hotels that will make your stay truly exceptional.
Stunning Beaches: Negombo is blessed with pristine beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Spend your days lounging on the soft sands, taking refreshing dips in the turquoise waters, and basking in the warm tropical sunshine. The beachfront is dotted with vibrant fishing boats, creating a picturesque setting for a peaceful getaway.
Culinary Delights: Known as the seafood capital of Sri Lanka, Negombo is a haven for food lovers. Indulge in mouthwatering seafood dishes, from succulent prawns and crabs to freshly grilled fish. Visit the local fish market and witness the vibrant atmosphere as fishermen bring in their daily catch.
Colonial Architecture: Explore the remnants of Negombo’s colonial past through its architectural landmarks. Stroll through the charming streets and discover beautiful churches, such as St. Mary’s Church and the Dutch Fort. These historical buildings showcase the town’s diverse heritage and offer a glimpse into its fascinating history.
Muthurajawela Marsh: Immerse yourself in nature at the Muthurajawela Marsh, a vast wetland ecosystem teeming with birdlife and unique flora and fauna. Take a boat tour through the mangroves, and witness the beauty of this protected sanctuary, which provides a tranquil escape from the city.
Water Sports: Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty of excitement in Negombo. Engage in thrilling water sports activities such as jet skiing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. Explore the lagoon on a kayak or enjoy a boat ride along the canals, discovering hidden corners of natural beauty.
Our Travel Team are here to help…
At Touring Highlights, we provide cultural touring holidays to your dream destinations. You’ll stay in our hand-picked city-centre hotels and experience personalised, world-class excursions. All are delivered by expert local guides.
Book a call with one of our team below. Or simply view our tours and submit an online enquiry for more details.
Did you know that Negombo has a rich cultural heritage influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods? The town was a significant trading port during these times and played a vital role in the spice trade. This history is evident in the architecture, cuisine, and cultural traditions of Negombo.
Negombo enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
Negombo offers a range of accommodation options and dining choices to suit various budgets. Here are some typical costs to consider:
Negombo is conveniently located near Bandaranaike International Airport, making it easily accessible for travellers. Here’s how to get there from the airport or local hotels:
From Bandaranaike International Airport: Negombo is just a short drive away from the airport, with a travel time of approximately 20 minutes. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available outside the airport, providing a convenient and quick transfer to your hotel.
From Colombo: If you’re already in Colombo, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to reach Negombo. The journey takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic conditions.
Hand-Picked City Center Hotels
Jetwing Sea (Rating: 4/5): This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, stunning ocean views, and a rooftop bar where you can relax and enjoy panoramic sunsets.
Heritance Negombo (Rating: 4.5/5): Situated along the beach, this luxury hotel boasts spacious rooms, a beachfront pool, and a selection of dining options offering both local and international cuisine.
Family-Friendly Fun: Take a boat ride on the Negombo Lagoon, where you can spot colourful birds, visit local fishing communities, and witness traditional fishing techniques. It’s an educational and engaging experience for the whole family.
Water Sports Adventures: Engage in water sports activities such as snorkelling or diving in the coral reefs near Negombo. Explore the underwater world and discover vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations.
Exploring the Dutch Legacy: Visit the Dutch Canal and take a leisurely boat ride to observe the daily life of the locals living along the canal. Enjoy the scenic views and learn about the historical significance of this waterway.
Cultural Immersion: Attend a traditional dance performance in Negombo, where you can witness the vibrant costumes, rhythmic music, and captivating dance forms that showcase the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Relaxation by the Beach: Take advantage of the beautiful beaches of Negombo and indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or a yoga session by the sea. Unwind and rejuvenate while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Now that you have all the insider information about Negombo, it’s time to plan your unforgettable trip and experience the coastal charm of this vibrant town. Discover more about the beauty of Sri Lanka and book your cultural tour with Touring Highlights by visiting their page about Sri Lanka Tours at touringhighlights.com/tour/sri-Lanka. Get ready to create lasting memories in the tropical paradise of Negombo and beyond. Happy travels!
