A fascinating attraction in Sri Lanka, the Dutch Canal dates to colonial times and offers much to discover those traversing its waters.
Getting There
This well-known site is on the island’s west coast in the laidback fishing town of Negombo; beach hotels can be found nearby and provide an ideal base from which to experience the area’s coastal charm. This includes “Safe and Secure Level 1” properties for tourists like Heritance Negombo, within easy reach of the canal.
The Original Canal
The first canal in the area was constructed by the Portuguese in the 17th century though it was the Dutch who subsequently took control that developed and expanded it for transporting goods. They created an impressive network of canals and a waterway that was more than 100 km long linking up with Puttalam in the north.
A New Canal
After the British took over, they began to construct a new canal in 1802 under the guidance of Garvin Hamilton; hence it was also called the Hamilton Canal. It ran west of the old canal and was built to drain the Muthurajawela Marsh; it didn’t serve this purpose however as the tides continued to flood the area with seawater.
What to Expect
Today, the Dutch Canal is a popular spot to take boat rides along its tranquil waters which is amongst the best things to do in Negombo. On your journey, you can observe local fisherfolk engaged in their daily livelihood and may even see wildlife be it water monitors or birds like herons, egrets and kingfishers.