Things To Do
in Negombo
Negombo in Sri Lanka is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful sandy beaches and bustling fish markets. The city's Dutch colonial influence can be seen in its architecture and canal network. Negombo is also a major Catholic center with several churches, including the historic St. Mary's Church.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, water sports, and relaxing beach resorts in Negombo.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk along Negombo Beach, enjoying the sunrise and gentle ocean breeze. Afterward, indulge in a delicious breakfast at a beachfront café featuring local cuisine.
Visit the Negombo Fish Market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and see the catch of the day. Grab a light lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, sampling the local specialties.
Unwind with a sunset boat ride on the lagoon, watching the stunning colors fill the sky. Dinner can be enjoyed at a beachside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves.
Visit the historic St. Mary's Church, known for its beautiful frescoes and architecture. After exploring the church, take a stroll through the local market to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture.
Explore the Dutch Fort area, where you can learn about the colonial history of Negombo. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café that serves traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Join a cultural dance performance in the evening to experience the rich traditions of Sri Lanka. Cap off the day with a relaxing dinner at your hotel or a local eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery
- Convenient access to Bandaranaike International Airport
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Vibrant local markets and fresh seafood
- Diverse range of accommodations and dining options
- Can be crowded with tourists, especially during peak season
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Environmental concerns regarding pollution and beach safety
- Infrastructure may be less developed in some areas
- High humidity and heat can be uncomfortable for some visitors
Best Activities in Negombo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Negombo is famous for its beautiful beaches, and beach hopping is a popular outdoor activity for visitors to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
Visitors can engage in a range of water sports such as windsurfing, kite-surfing, and jet skiing at Negombo's beaches, offering thrilling outdoor experiences.
Taking a boat tour along the scenic Negombo lagoon provides an opportunity to observe the local fishing villages, birdlife, and mangrove ecosystems in a relaxing outdoor setting.
Exploring Negombo's surroundings on a bicycle is a great way to enjoy the outdoor scenery and visit attractions like the Dutch Canal and historic churches.
Tours
Uncover the best of Negombo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Negombo
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful beach with stunning sunset views and great photo opportunities
Historical fort with panoramic views of the surrounding area
Scenic canal offering picturesque views and boat ride opportunities
Food in Negombo
Negombo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy and fragrant fish curry made with locally caught fish, infused with coconut milk and a blend of traditional Sri Lankan spices. Best enjoyed at Rodeo Pub & Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A fiery concoction of red onions, red chilies, Maldive fish, and lime juice, served as a condiment or accompaniment to rice and curry. Visit Lords Restaurant for an authentic taste.
A delectable coconut custard pudding flavored with jaggery, cashew nuts, and spices. Sample this delightful dessert at Dolce Vita Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Negombo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Observe the bustling Negombo Fish Market where you can witness the auction of fresh seafood and interact with local fisherfolk. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor freshly prepared seafood snacks from the nearby street vendors.
Wander along Sea Street and treat your taste buds to an array of enticing street food options. From fish ambul thiyal to kottu roti, the stalls here offer an authentic introduction to local street eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for the predominant religion, Buddhism, by dressing modestly when visiting temples and religious sites, and by avoiding public displays of affection.
When invited to a local's home, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. Additionally, when dining, it is polite to try a bit of everything offered and to accept seconds when offered, as refusing may be seen as disrespectful.
Greetings are important in Sri Lankan culture. It is respectful to greet others with a smile and a nod, and to address people using titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' until invited to use their first name.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Negombo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Negombo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Negombo, Sri Lanka, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so it's advisable to check before tipping. Tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers is also a common practice, with the amount varying based on the level of service and your satisfaction.
In Negombo, Sri Lanka, cash is widely used for transactions, although some hotels and larger establishments may accept credit or debit cards. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller purchases and when visiting local markets. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing cash. When using cards, it's important to be cautious of potential fraud and use reputable establishments. It's also common to haggle prices in local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Negombo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Negombo, with dry and sunny weather, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
Off-season with more rainfall and higher humidity, but still a good time for budget travelers and those interested in cultural experiences.
Negombo at Night
Hiking in Negombo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 80 kilometers from Negombo, Kanneliya Forest Reserve offers a variety of hiking trails through lush greenery and diverse wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sinharaja is approximately 130 kilometers from Negombo and is known for its rich biodiversity. Hiking through the reserve allows visitors to experience unique flora and fauna.
About 120 kilometers from Negombo, the Knuckles Mountain Range offers breathtaking views and numerous trails for all skill levels, making it a great choice for hikers looking for adventure.
Located around 90 kilometers away, Hakgala Botanical Garden has scenic walking paths and offers a more relaxed hiking experience amid beautiful gardens and hillock views.
Located about 150 kilometers from Negombo, Pidurangala provides a rewarding hike with stunning panoramic views of Sigiriya and the surrounding landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Negombo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Negombo by plane.
The main international gateway to Sri Lanka, located approximately 12 km north of Negombo.
Located about 200 km south of Negombo, it is the second international airport in the country.
An international airport located approximately 43 km from Negombo, primarily serving domestic and regional flights.
Sometimes referred to by its city name, this airport serves many international destinations and is just a short drive away from Negombo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Sinhalese are the largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka, making up the majority of the population in Negombo.
Tamils constitute a significant minority in Negombo and are mainly involved in trade and agriculture.
The Muslim community in Negombo is notable for their engagement in various businesses, particularly in the fish trade.
The Burgher community in Negombo, of mixed European descent, is now a smaller group but has historical significance in the area.
The Soul of Negombo
Discover the essence of Negombo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Negombo, with many local clubs and schools participating in competitions. The sport has a rich history in Sri Lanka and is a major part of the culture.
Football is widely played in Negombo, with many enthusiasts participating in both amateur and competitive leagues. Local teams represent the area in regional tournaments.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and communities in Negombo. It is played on beaches and in local courts, attracting many players and spectators.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Negombo, with schools and community centers promoting the sport. Local tournaments help nurture young talent in basketball.
Negombo's coastal area makes it a suitable place for water sports like surfing. Local surf schools and enthusiasts contribute to the growing interest in this sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Negombo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the local cuisine predominantly features seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Negombo offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, such as dhal curry, coconut sambol, and a selection of vegetable curries.
Several establishments in Negombo cater to vegans, offering dishes like jackfruit curry, kottu without egg, and various coconut-based preparations.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like hoppers, string hoppers, and gluten-free roti, which are widely available and suitable for those seeking gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Negombo with these cultural adventures.
