30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Negombo | Dec 2024

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What activities can I do in Negombo?

1. Explore Negombo Beach: Enjoy the golden sands and turquoise waters of Negombo Beach. Go for a swim, sunbathe, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. 2. Visit the Negombo Fish Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Negombo Fish Market, where you can witness fishermen unloading their catch and locals haggling for the freshest seafood. 3. Take a Boat Ride in the Negombo Lagoon: Explore the scenic Negombo Lagoon by taking a boat ride. Marvel at the mangrove forests, spot local bird species, and visit the fishing villages located along the lagoon. 4. Visit the Dutch Fort: Explore the remnants of the Dutch Fort, which dates back to the 17th century. The fort offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for photography. 5. Go on a Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour: Take a boat tour from Negombo and head out to sea to spot dolphins and whales. This is a thrilling experience that allows you to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. 6. Visit the Angurukaramulla Temple: Explore the Angurukaramulla Temple, known for its stunning Buddhist murals and impressive statue of a reclining Buddha. The temple is also home to a museum showcasing religious artifacts. 7. Enjoy Water Sports: Negombo offers a range of water sports activities such as jet skiing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Head to one of the water sports centers along the beach and enjoy an adrenaline-filled day on the water. 8. Explore the Muthurajawela Marsh: Embark on a boat or kayak tour of the Muthurajawela Marsh, a wetland sanctuary located near Negombo. Discover the diverse flora and fauna, including numerous bird species, reptiles, and mammals. 9. Visit the St. Mary's Church: Explore the beautiful St. Mary's Church, a Roman Catholic church located in Negombo. Admire the stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows. 10. Indulge in Seafood Delicacies: Negombo is renowned for its fresh seafood. Visit one of the many seafood restaurants in the area and indulge in delicious dishes such as grilled prawns, crab curry, and fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry). These are just a few of the many things to do in Negombo, Sri Lanka. The city offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for travelers.

When is the best time to travel to Negombo?

The best time to travel to Negombo, Sri Lanka is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with minimal rainfall. The average temperature ranges from 27 to 32 degrees Celsius (80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit), making it perfect for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. It's important to note that Negombo experiences two monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. The northeast monsoon occurs from October to January, but its impact on Negombo is relatively mild compared to other parts of the country. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons of April and November. These months offer relatively good weather with fewer tourists. Overall, the best time to travel to Negombo is during the dry season from December to March for the most enjoyable and comfortable experience.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Negombo

Negombo is a vibrant coastal city located just a short drive away from Sri Lanka's main international airport, making it a popular destination for travelers arriving or departing from the country. The city has a rich cultural heritage and offers a unique blend of influences from its colonial past and its predominantly Catholic population. One of the most prominent cultural attractions in Negombo is the St. Mary's Church, a beautiful Roman Catholic church that dates back to the 19th century. The church is known for its impressive architecture and hosts various religious festivals and processions throughout the year. Negombo is also home to a large fishing community, and a visit to the Negombo Fish Market is a must for those interested in experiencing the local culture. Here, you can witness the bustling activity of fishermen bringing in their fresh catch and the vibrant atmosphere of the market as locals bargain for the best prices. The city is also known for its intricate handloom industry, and you can visit the Negombo Handloom Weaving Center to learn about the traditional techniques used to create beautiful textiles. You can even purchase handwoven garments and souvenirs to take back home. If you're interested in exploring the history and heritage of Negombo, a visit to the Dutch Fort is recommended. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, the fort showcases the architectural influences of the colonial era and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. In terms of cuisine, Negombo is known for its seafood delicacies. The city is dotted with numerous seafood restaurants and beachside cafes where you can savor delicious fresh seafood dishes, including the famous Negombo-style prawn curry. Additionally, Negombo hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of St. Sebastian in January and the Kite Festival in August. These events offer a glimpse into the vibrant local culture and provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the community. Overall, Negombo offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, from its colonial architecture and religious landmarks to its bustling fish markets and traditional handloom industry. It is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Negombo

When visiting Negombo, Sri Lanka, there are several items you can add to your shopping list for souvenirs. Here are some popular options: 1. Handicrafts: Look for intricately designed wooden carvings, lacquerware, and brassware. These unique handicrafts make for beautiful souvenirs and home decor items. 2. Batik Clothing: Sri Lanka is famous for its batik clothing, which involves using wax and dye to create stunning designs on fabric. You can find a range of batik garments such as dresses, sarongs, shirts, and scarves. 3. Spices: Sri Lanka is known as the ""Spice Island,"" so don't miss the opportunity to take home some authentic Sri Lankan spices. Cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and pepper are popular choices. 4. Tea: Sri Lanka is renowned for its tea production, so make sure to buy some high-quality Ceylon tea. You can find a variety of flavors and grades, including black, green, and herbal teas. 5. Gems and Jewelry: Sri Lanka is famous for its gemstones, particularly sapphires. You can find a wide range of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, set with precious and semi-precious stones. 6. Handloom Products: Sri Lanka has a rich tradition of handloom weaving, producing beautiful textiles such as saris, shawls, and scarves. These handwoven items make for unique and colorful souvenirs. 7. Ayurvedic Products: Sri Lanka is known for its Ayurvedic medicine and natural beauty products. Look for Ayurvedic oils, herbal soaps, creams, and other wellness products made from local ingredients. 8. Wooden Masks: Negombo is famous for its traditional wooden masks, which are used in various cultural rituals and performances. These masks come in different sizes and designs and can be a fascinating addition to your collection. Remember to bargain and compare prices before making a purchase. It's also a good idea to buy from reputable shops to ensure the authenticity and quality of the products.

Negombo travel review

Negombo: A Hidden Gem in Sri Lanka Located on the western coast of Sri Lanka, Negombo is a vibrant city that often gets overshadowed by its more popular neighbors like Colombo and Galle. However, this coastal town has so much to offer to travelers seeking a unique and authentic Sri Lankan experience. From its stunning beaches to its rich history and culture, Negombo is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. One of the main attractions of Negombo is its beautiful beaches. With its long stretch of golden sand and clear blue waters, it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you are looking to swim, surf, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, Negombo's beaches have something for everyone. The calm and serene atmosphere is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Aside from its natural beauty, Negombo is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city has a strong Portuguese influence, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and even the local dialect. A visit to the Dutch Fort, built in the 17th century, is a must for history enthusiasts. The fort, with its well-preserved walls and cannons, offers a glimpse into the colonial past of Sri Lanka. Negombo is also famous for its fishing industry, and a visit to the fish market is an experience not to be missed. Watch as fishermen bring in their catch of the day, and witness the lively and chaotic atmosphere as locals bargain for the freshest seafood. For an even more immersive experience, take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal, which was once used for transporting goods during the colonial era. Food lovers will be delighted by the culinary delights that Negombo has to offer. The city is known for its seafood, and you can savor the freshest catch at the numerous seafood restaurants lining the beach. From succulent prawns to flavorful crabs and mouthwatering fish curries, the local cuisine is a true gastronomic delight. Don't forget to try the Negombo specialty, ""Negombo prawn curry,"" a spicy and aromatic dish that will leave you craving for more. For those seeking a spiritual experience, Negombo is home to several beautiful churches and temples. The St. Mary's Church, with its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics. The Angurukaramulla Temple, with its towering Buddha statue and intricate murals, is a place of tranquility and meditation. Negombo may be lesser known compared to other tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, but it is a city that has so much to offer. From its breathtaking beaches to its rich history and culture, Negombo is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. So, if you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Sri Lanka, make sure to include Negombo in your travel itinerary. You won't be disappointed.