Negombo - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Negombo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Negombo, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Negombo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Negombo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Negombo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Negombo

Negombo is a coastal city located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, about 37 kilometers north of the commercial capital Colombo. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its close proximity to the international airport and its long sandy beaches. The town is also known for its vibrant fishing industry and has a busy fish market that is worth visiting. Negombo also boasts of a number of historic sites, including the St. Mary's Church, which is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in Sri Lanka, and the Dutch Fort, which was built by the Dutch during their colonial rule. The town is also a great place to taste some of the best seafood dishes in Sri Lanka.

What to visit in Negombo

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Negombo, Sri Lanka and a brief overview of each: 1. Negombo Beach: A popular attraction among tourists, this long stretch of sandy beach offers a relaxing place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a variety of water activities.
2. St. Mary's Church: Built in 1874, this stunning Gothic-style church is a must-see attraction in Negombo. It features breathtaking stained glass, intricate woodcarvings, and marble floors.
3. Muthurajawela Marsh: A beautiful wetland reserve that is home to over 190 species of birds, including a number of endangered species. Visitors can take boat tours, hike, or cycle in the reserve.
4. Dutch Fort: A historic fort built during the Dutch colonial era, this attraction offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial past. It features a beautiful old gate and some ancient structures.
5. Angurukaramulla Temple: This Buddhist temple is located in the heart of Negombo and is home to a large statue of a reclining Buddha. Its impressive architecture, murals and towering entrance make this a stunning attraction.
6. Fish Market: This bustling market is a must-visit attraction in Negombo, where visitors can watch fishermen bring in their fresh catches of seafood and purchase fish and seafood to prepare back at their hotels.
7. Hamilton Canal: An old canal built by the British during colonial times which runs through the town. It is dotted with small villages and it is a great place for a boat ride. Overall, Negombo offers a variety of attractions to see and activities to experience. From stunning natural beauty to historic landmarks, there is something for everyone in this beautiful Sri Lankan town.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Negombo.

When to go on holiday to Negombo

The best time to visit Negombo, Sri Lanka is between November and April, which is known as the dry season. During this time, the temperatures are moderate, with minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as swimming, exploring the city, and visiting nearby attractions. However, keep in mind that since it is the peak travel season, prices tend to be higher, and crowds can be significant. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly time to travel, the rainy season is between May and October, with fewer tourists and lower prices, but it can be humid and rainy at times.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Negombo

Negombo is a coastal city in Sri Lanka located on the west coast. The most popular mode of transportation to get to Negombo is by taking a taxi, bus, or train depending on your starting location.
If you are traveling from Colombo, you can take a taxi directly to Negombo, which will take about an hour's drive. You can also take a bus from Colombo Fort to Negombo, which usually takes about an hour and a half, depending on the traffic. Alternatively, you can take a train from Colombo Fort to Negombo, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
If you are flying into Colombo International Airport, you can take a taxi from the airport to Negombo, which will take about 20-30 minutes to reach the city.
Overall, there are various transportation options for getting to Negombo from different parts of Sri Lanka.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Negombo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Negombo

Negombo is a coastal town in Sri Lanka that is famous for its seafood. Here are some of the typical foods you can find there: 1. Negombo Prawn Curry - This is one of the most popular dishes in Negombo. The prawns are cooked in a rich and flavorful coconut milk curry with a blend of spices.
2. Parippu - A traditional staple of Sri Lankan cuisine, Parippu is a lentil curry that is usually served with rice. It is a very simple dish that is both hearty and delicious.
3. Kottu Roti - Kottu Roti is a popular street food in Sri Lanka. It is made by mixing shredded roti bread with a variety of spices, vegetables, and meat or seafood. It is a very flavorful and satisfying dish.
4. Fish Ambul Thiyal - A tangy and spicy fish curry, Fish Ambul Thiyal is made with a variety of local fish that are cooked with a blend of spices and curry leaves.
5. Wadiya - These are savory fried lentil balls that can be eaten as a snack or as a side dish with rice and curry. They are crispy on the outside and soft and flavorful on the inside.
6. Coconut Sambol - A popular Sri Lankan condiment, Coconut Sambol is made with grated coconut, red onions, chili, lime juice, and salt. It is a great accompaniment to any dish and adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
7. Hoppers - A thin and crispy pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, Hoppers are a Sri Lankan breakfast staple. They can be served with a variety of toppings, including eggs, sambol, and curry.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Negombo an expensive destination for tourists?

Negombo is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists compared to other popular tourist spots in Sri Lanka like Colombo or Kandy. However, the cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as your budget, travel style, and preferences. In Negombo, the cost of accommodation can range from budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale resorts. The food in Negombo is generally inexpensive, especially if you eat at local restaurants, food stalls, or markets. Transportation costs are also affordable, with options such as tuk-tuks and buses available to get around. Overall, it's possible to enjoy a trip to Negombo without breaking the bank. However, the cost of your trip will also depend on other factors such as the season of travel, activities you plan on doing, and how much you spend on shopping and other leisure activities.

Where to find accomodation in Negombo

In Negombo, the best areas to find accommodation that are both convenient and offer a variety of options are: - Negombo Beach: This is the most popular area for tourists to stay in Negombo, with a range of accommodation options right by the beach. You'll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area, as well as water sports activities.
- Old Town: For those interested in history and culture, staying in the Old Town area will give you easy access to sites such as the Dutch Fort and St. Mary's Church. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and markets in the area.
- Negombo Lagoon: If you're looking for a quieter stay, away from the hustle and bustle of Negombo Beach, the Negombo Lagoon area offers a peaceful alternative. You'll find plenty of guesthouses and smaller hotels with beautiful views of the lagoon, as well as opportunities to go fishing and boating.
You can check hotel prices at Negombo here:
Booking.com

Is Negombo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Negombo is considered a relatively safe place for tourists. However, just like any other place in the world, it's always best to be cautious and follow basic safety guidelines. It's recommended to avoid isolated areas, not to carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you, and be aware of your surroundings especially during late hours. It's also advisable to research current safety conditions before traveling to Negombo or any other destination in Sri Lanka.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Negombo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Negombo the most?

Negombo in Sri Lanka is a place that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families.
Couples will enjoy the romantic setting of Negombo's beaches and serene environment. The town is perfect for long walks and beachside dining. Young people looking for fun will enjoy the nightlife and water sports activities. Negombo is famous for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and other water activities. Families with kids can enjoy the beach and participate in family-friendly activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.
Additionally, Negombo has several historical and cultural attractions that all types of travelers can enjoy. The town has an array of markets, restaurants, and shopping facilities that cater to any traveler’s needs.

How to get around Negombo

Negombo is a relatively small town, so it is very easy to get around on foot or by tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are a common mode of transportation in Sri Lanka and can be hailed from anywhere in the town. They are affordable and convenient. Additionally, there are also buses and taxis available in Negombo for longer distances or to travel to nearby cities. However, most tourists and locals prefer tuk-tuks due to their affordability and convenience.

What to see around Negombo

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Negombo, Sri Lanka: 1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage - where you can see elephants bathing in the river 2. Sigiriya Rock Fortress - a UNESCO World Heritage Site 3. Dambulla Cave Temple - also a UNESCO World Heritage Site 4. Kandy City - the cultural capital of Sri Lanka 5. Anuradhapura - another ancient city with UNESCO World Heritage Sites 6. Polonnaruwa - yet another ancient city with UNESCO World Heritage Sites 7. Wilpattu National Park - a wildlife sanctuary with leopards, elephants and other species 8. Kitulgala - a popular spot for white-water rafting 9. Colombo City - the commercial capital of Sri Lanka with many attractions to see.
These destinations are a bit far from Negombo (most are 2-3 hours’ drive each way), so it is best to start early and plan your day accordingly.
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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