The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Negombo

Negombo, located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of experiences for visitors. The city boasts of stunning beaches, ancient temples, and colonial architecture. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the most famous sightseeing attractions of Negombo.

Negombo Fish Market

One of the most popular attractions in Negombo is the fish market. Located along the coast, this market is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The market is busy and chaotic, with fishermen selling their catch of the day. Here you can find everything from prawns and lobsters to crabs and fish. The market is open every day, except on Sundays.

St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is a landmark in Negombo and is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka. It is a beautiful white church with stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings. The church has a long history dating back to the Portuguese occupation of Sri Lanka. It is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics in Sri Lanka.

Dutch Fort

The Dutch Fort is a 17th-century Portuguese fort that was later taken over by the Dutch. The fort is located on the coast and is a popular tourist attraction. The fort is well-preserved and offers stunning views of the ocean. The fort has a rich history and was used for various purposes, including as a prison during British colonial rule.

Angurukaramulla Temple

The Angurukaramulla Temple is a Buddhist temple that is over 300 years old. The temple is famous for its stunning Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in Sri Lanka. The statue is 6 meters tall and is made of limestone. The temple grounds are also home to a museum that showcases a variety of artifacts and exhibits related to Buddhism.

Negombo Beach

Negombo Beach is a stunning beach that stretches for miles along the coast. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, and it is a popular spot for seafood lovers. The beach is also home to a range of water sports activities, including parasailing and jet skiing.

Conclusion

Negombo offers a variety of experiences for visitors, from cultural and historical attractions to stunning beaches and seafood markets. These are just some of the most famous sights to explore while visiting the city. Don’t forget to try some of the local delicacies while you’re there. Negombo is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Negombo, Sri Lanka

Negombo is a coastal city in western Sri Lanka that attracts travelers from all over the world. Famous for its golden beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Negombo is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique holiday experience. Here is an insider’s guide to the most famous sightseeing attractions in Negombo.

Local Attractions

Negombo offers a range of local attractions that are worth visiting. One of the most famous is the Negombo Lagoon, the largest lagoon in Sri Lanka, which is perfect for boat safaris, bird watching, and fishing. The Angurukaramulla Temple is another must-visit attraction, which features a giant statue of the Buddha and stunning frescoes. The Dutch Fort is also a popular attraction, built in 1678 by the Dutch on the ruins of a Portuguese fort.

Dining Spots

Negombo is famous for its seafood, thanks to its location right off the coast. The city offers numerous dining spots where you can indulge in mouth-watering seafood dishes. One of the most famous is Lellama, a beachside restaurant with a range of seafood options and traditional Sri Lankan dishes. For a romantic dining experience, The Rodeo Pub is an excellent option, thanks to its ocean views and serene atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

Negombo is a melting pot of different cultures, including Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. You can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the city by visiting the St. Mary’s Church, which dates back to the 1870s and features stunning architecture influenced by the Dutch. The Fish Market in Negombo is another must-visit attraction, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of a traditional Sri Lankan market.

Local History

Negombo has a rich history, and there are many historic sites worth visiting. The Dutch Canal, built in the 17th century, is a perfect example of the city’s colonial past. The Muthurajawela Marsh, a large saline wetland, is home to a range of rare flora and fauna and is an ideal location to learn about the city’s ecological heritage.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

For those looking for a unique experience, Negombo offers a range of off-the-beaten-track suggestions. The Negombo Fishermen’s Cooperative Society is a great place to learn about the life of local fishermen and try your hand at traditional fishing techniques. The Rainbow Bridge is another hidden gem, a colorful pedestrian-only bridge that was built as part of a restoration project.

In conclusion, Negombo is a city with a rich history, culture, and tradition, offering a range of experiences for tourists. Whether you’re looking to relax on golden beaches, experience the vibrant local culture, or immerse yourself in the city’s history, Negombo has something for everyone.