Nestled by soft sandy shores, the laid-back west coast city of Negombo provides the perfect seaside escape in Sri Lanka. Here are a few things to keep in mind before heading on your trip.
Planning Your Getaway
This popular destination is only around 37 km from the commercial capital, Colombo and is a short 15-minute drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport. While it can be easily accessed by bus or train services, when it comes to accommodation at a hostel or hotel, Negombo has plenty of options too.
Beach and Lagoon Fun
The golden beach of Negombo is amongst the city’s main allures and is an ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, kitesurfing or dining by the ocean. The local lagoon also provides fun activities and those staying at properties such as Arie Lagoon can look forward to paddleboating, kayaking and boat rides as well.
Captivating Exploration
There are many fascinating discoveries to be made when exploring Negombo; take a boat ride along the historic Dutch Canal, marvel at the beauty of the neoclassical St. Mary’s Church and soak up the lively early morning atmosphere at the main fish market.
For Nature Lovers
Those who love nature can plan an excursion to the Muthurajawela Marsh. This thriving coastal wetland ecosystem has a rich biodiversity made up of diverse flora and fauna; it is home to common toads, water monitors, monkeys and more than 100 species of birds including cormorants, purple herons, black bitterns and egrets.