Things To Do
in Negombo
Negombo, Sri Lanka is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. Located just 37 kilometers north of Colombo, it serves as a gateway to the island's natural beauty and historic sites. The city is famous for its fishing industry, with colorful fishermen's boats lining the shore and traditional fishing methods still in practice.
Visitors can explore bustling markets, relax by the beach, and indulge in the area’s delicious seafood offerings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Negombo Beach to enjoy the sunrise, followed by breakfast at a beachfront café.
Explore the Negombo Fish Market, where you can see the local fishermen at work and sample some fresh seafood.
Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Dutch Canal, taking in the beautiful scenery as the sun sets.
Visit the historic St. Mary's Church, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful frescoes.
Take a tour of the local cinnamon plantations and learn about the spice's significance to the region.
Relax at one of the local beach bars, enjoying a cocktail while listening to live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant | 5-10 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel per Night | 20-50 |
| 🚌Bus Ticket | 0.50 |
| 🍺Local Beer | 2-3 |
| 🚖Taxi Ride (within city) | 3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and sunset views.
- Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
- Easy access to nearby attractions.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
- Some areas may feel commercialized.
- Public transportation can be limited.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Mama Sinhala kathakaranne nehe" - I don’t speak Sinhala
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Eya kiyanna" - Please say that again
Places to Visit in Negombo
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the beautiful sunsets, local fishermen, and colorful boats along the shoreline.
The stunning architecture and interiors make for impressive photographs.
Photograph the serene waterside views and traditional boats navigating the canal.
Food in Negombo
Negombo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy and aromatic dish made with fresh local fish or prawns, cooked in coconut milk and spices.
Must-Try!
A popular street food made from chopped flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and optional meats.
A unique dish made from fermented rice flour, served in bowl shapes with an egg or sweet filling.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Street vendors serving local snacks and meals, perfect for tasting on-the-go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting religious sites, it’s important to dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or private property.
It’s customary to remove shoes before entering homes and certain places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Negombo
Ensure a smooth experience
It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, but check if service charges are included.
Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards. ATMs are available in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities.
Rainfall is common, so be prepared for wet weather, but the landscape is lush and vibrant.
These months provide a good balance of weather and fewer tourists.
Experience local festivals with cultural performances and celebrations, but expect larger crowds.
Negombo at Night
Hiking in Negombo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, located about an hour from Negombo.
A more challenging hike with diverse flora and fauna, located a few hours away but worth the trip for nature enthusiasts.
Airports
How to reach Negombo by plane.
Located just 12 kilometers from Negombo, this international airport serves as a major entry point to Sri Lanka, offering flights to various global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, the Sinhalese are primarily Buddhist and contribute significantly to the local culture.
The Tamil community, mainly Hindu, is also significant in the region, adding to the cultural diversity of Negombo.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Sri Lanka, and you can often see local teams playing in parks and open spaces.
With its beautiful beaches, Negombo is also a great spot for surfing, especially during the monsoon season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Negombo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your preferences.
While gluten-free options may be limited, rice dishes are widely available.