Things to Do in Negombo | Beaches, Temples & Cultural Attractions

Things to Do in Negombo

Discover the best attractions, beaches, and cultural experiences in Sri Lanka's charming coastal city

Welcome to Negombo

A historic fishing town with golden beaches, Dutch canals, and rich cultural heritage

Negombo, located just 10km north of Bandaranaike International Airport, is often called "Little Rome" for its concentration of Catholic churches. This coastal city offers visitors a perfect blend of beach relaxation, cultural exploration, and authentic Sri Lankan experiences.

With its strategic location between the airport and Colombo, Negombo serves as an ideal first stop or last day destination for travelers. The city's history as a trading port under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule has left a fascinating cultural legacy visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

Top Attractions in Negombo

Must-visit places that showcase Negombo's unique character

Negombo Beach

Along Negombo's coastline, 2km from city center

Negombo's golden sandy beach stretches for several kilometers along the town's western edge. While not as spectacular as some of Sri Lanka's southern beaches, Negombo Beach offers calm waters perfect for swimming and a relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds.

The beach comes alive in the early morning when fishermen bring in their catch, and again at sunset when locals and tourists gather to watch the spectacular colors over the Indian Ocean. The northern end near the fish market is most active, while the southern stretches offer more tranquility.

Best Time to Visit

November to April (calm seas)

Recommended Duration

2-3 hours

Highlights

Sunset views, beach strolls, fishing boats

Negombo Fish Market

North end of Negombo Beach

One of Sri Lanka's most vibrant fish markets, the Negombo Fish Market offers an authentic glimpse into the town's fishing culture. The market operates in two sections - the larger wholesale market where the morning catch is auctioned, and the retail section where locals purchase their daily fish.

The best time to visit is early morning (around 6-8am) when the fishing boats return with their catch. You'll see hundreds of varieties of fish, crabs, prawns, and lobsters being unloaded, sorted, and sold. It's a photographer's paradise, though be prepared for strong smells and slippery surfaces.

Market Hours

5:30am - 6:30pm (peak 6-9am)

Photography Tip

Ask permission before photographing people

What to Wear

Comfortable shoes that can get wet

Dutch Canal

Runs through central Negombo

Built during the Dutch colonial period (1640-1796), the Dutch Canal (Hamilton Canal) connects Colombo to Puttalam via Negombo. Originally constructed for transportation and to drain the marshy land, today it offers scenic boat rides through Negombo's backwaters.

A boat trip along the canal reveals daily life along its banks - fishermen casting nets, women washing clothes, children playing, and vendors selling goods from small boats. The canal is particularly picturesque in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft.

Boat Tours

1-2 hour tours available

Historical Note

Built on Portuguese foundations

Wildlife

Spot kingfishers, herons, monitor lizards

St. Mary's Church

Grand Street, Negombo

This imposing Roman Catholic church is one of Negombo's most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1874, St. Mary's Church features stunning Baroque architecture with intricate frescoes covering every inch of the interior walls and ceiling.

The church is particularly famous for its annual feast in August (the Feast of St. Mary), which attracts thousands of devotees. The interior artwork depicts biblical scenes with Sri Lankan influences - look for the Last Supper painting where the disciples are shown eating from banana leaves.

Architecture Style

Neo-Baroque

Visiting Hours

6am - 8pm daily

Artwork

Over 50 frescoes by local artists

More Things to Do in Negombo

Additional experiences to enrich your visit

Lagoon Boat Tour

Explore Negombo's mangrove-lined lagoon, visit small islands, and observe traditional fishing methods on a 2-hour boat tour.

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Angurukaramulla Temple

Visit this unique Buddhist temple featuring a 6m tall Buddha statue and fascinating murals depicting Buddhist hell.

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Spice Garden Visit

Learn about Sri Lanka's famous spices and their medicinal uses at one of Negombo's organic spice gardens.

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Dutch Fort Remains

Explore the ruins of Negombo's 17th century Dutch fort, now home to the town's prison and clock tower.

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Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes using fresh ingredients from the local market.

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Sunset Cruise

Enjoy a romantic evening cruise on the lagoon with cocktails and canapés as the sun sets.

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Negombo Travel Tips

Essential information for your visit

Best Time to Visit Negombo

The ideal time to visit Negombo is during the dry season from December to March when rainfall is minimal and seas are calm. The shoulder months of November and April also offer good weather with fewer crowds. May to October brings the southwest monsoon with higher chances of rain, though showers are usually brief.

Getting Around Negombo

Negombo is relatively compact and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. For longer distances, tuk-tuks are readily available and affordable (always negotiate the fare before getting in). Consider hiring a taxi with driver for day trips to nearby attractions or for airport transfers.

Where to Stay in Negombo

Most hotels are clustered along the beach road (Lewis Place) and offer a range of accommodations from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. For first-time visitors, the area near the fish market offers convenient access to major attractions. Those seeking quieter surroundings might prefer accommodations north of the town center.

Negombo's Culinary Specialties

Being a fishing town, Negombo is famous for its seafood. Don't miss trying the local specialties: "lamprais" (Dutch-influenced rice packet), "jaffna crab curry", and fresh lagoon prawns. The town also has excellent bakeries reflecting its Catholic heritage - try the rich Christmas cake available year-round.