The Top 10 Attractions and Activities in Negombo, Sri Lanka’s Coastal Paradise

Negombo is a charming coastal town in Sri Lanka, located just 15 minutes away from the Bandaranaike International Airport. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, as well as explore the rich culture and history of the area. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous holiday, Negombo has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in Negombo that you should not miss.

• Visit the Negombo Fish Market: Negombo is known as the fishing capital of Sri Lanka, and the fish market is where you can witness the daily catch and the lively trade. You can see a variety of fresh seafood, from crabs and lobsters to tuna and sharks, and even buy some for yourself. The best time to visit the fish market is in the early morning, when the fishermen bring in their hauls from the sea.
• Explore the Dutch Fort and Canal: Negombo was once a colonial outpost of the Dutch, who built a fort and a canal to protect their interests. The fort is now in ruins, but you can still see the remnants of the walls and the gate. The canal, on the other hand, is still in use, and you can take a boat ride along it to see the scenic views of the town and the countryside.
• Relax at the Negombo Beach: Negombo has a long stretch of golden sand beach that is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. You can also find many beach resorts, restaurants, and bars along the shore, where you can enjoy the local cuisine and the nightlife. The beach is also a great place to watch the sunset and the fishing boats returning to the harbor.
• Learn about the History and Culture at the St. Mary’s Church: Negombo has a large Christian population, and the St. Mary’s Church is one of the most prominent landmarks of the town. The church was built in the 19th century and has a beautiful Gothic architecture. The interior of the church is adorned with paintings, statues, and stained glass windows that depict the life of Jesus and the saints. The church is also a place of worship and celebration for the locals, especially during Christmas and Easter.
• Enjoy the Wildlife at the Muthurajawela Wetland: Muthurajawela is a wetland sanctuary that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can take a guided tour of the wetland by boat and see the mangroves, marshes, and lagoons that provide a habitat for many birds, reptiles, fish, and mammals. Some of the animals that you can spot here are crocodiles, monkeys, water monitors, kingfishers, herons, and egrets.
• Experience the Local Life at the Angurukaramulla Temple: Angurukaramulla is a Buddhist temple that is famous for its 6-meter-high statue of Buddha and its colorful murals that depict the stories of Buddhism. The temple is also a center of learning and meditation for the monks and the devotees. You can visit the temple and observe the rituals, ceremonies, and festivals that take place here. You can also interact with the friendly monks and learn more about their culture and beliefs.
• Indulge in the Spa and Wellness at the Wattura Resort and Spa: Wattura Resort and Spa is a luxury resort that offers a holistic approach to wellness and relaxation. The resort has a spa that provides a range of treatments, such as massages, facials, scrubs, and wraps, using natural ingredients and traditional techniques. The resort also has a yoga pavilion, a meditation garden, a fitness center, and a swimming pool, where you can rejuvenate your body and mind.
• Have Fun at the Water Sports Center: If you are looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities, you can head to the water sports center that is located near the Negombo Beach. The center offers a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing, banana boating, parasailing, kayaking, and windsurfing. You can also try scuba diving and snorkeling and see the colorful coral reefs and marine life that lie beneath the waves.
• Shop at the Negombo Shopping Street: Negombo has a vibrant shopping street that is lined with shops, stalls, and boutiques that sell everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to clothes and jewelry. You can find some unique and authentic items here, such as batik fabrics, wood carvings, masks, and spices. You can also bargain with the vendors and get the best deals for your purchases.
• Taste the Local Cuisine at the Negombo Restaurants: Negombo has a rich and diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural heritage. You can find a variety of dishes here, from spicy curries and seafood platters to Dutch pastries and Italian pizzas. Some of the local specialties that you should try are the fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry), the kottu roti (chopped bread with vegetables and meat), and the appa (hopper pancakes). You can also sample some of the tropical fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, and pineapples, that are grown in the region.

These are just some of the things to do in Negombo that will make your stay memorable and enjoyable. Negombo is a town that has something for everyone, whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, a foodie, or a thrill-seeker. So, what are you waiting for? Book your stay at the Wattura Resort and Spa and discover the wonders of Negombo, Sri Lanka’s coastal paradise.