Ideally located within 7km of the country’s international airport one can hardly conceive of a beach paradise more perfectly situated than Negombo. Frequented by beach lovers and culture buffs alike the first beach resort in the island is a venue with a rich history as both Dutch and Portuguese invasions have left a lasting impression on the culture and development of the hamlet. Renowned for its golden, sandy beaches there’s more to the area that was once a quaint fishing village than its resort laden beachfronts. In fact, there’s a world of culture and heritage waiting to be discovered by discerning travellers as the city of Negombo is no ordinary coastal metropolis in Sri Lanka.
Dubbed “Little Rome’ for the sheer number of Roman Catholic cathedrals that decorate the city Negombo’s religious heritage is in stark contrast to the remainder of its island home which is predominantly Buddhist. The large number of churches with European architectural influences and colonial histories makes Negombo a haven for architecture buffs as the structural elements of the centuries old institutions are nothing short of breathtaking. Highlights include St. Mary’s Church or the Mahaweediya Palliya which is an imposing cathedral that also boasts captivating murals.
The Agurukaramulla Temple is another religious edifice of historic record as the ancient temple is a focal venue in the city’s Buddhist heritage. Housing a larger than life Buddhist statue, ancient paintings and centuries old murals visitors can also get valuable information on the area’s ruling monarchs in bygone eras at the locale .
The town’s most visited attraction is of course the iconic Dutch Fort Gate that was built by colonial overlords in the 17th century. Visitors can also take a boat trip along the 100km Dutch canal which was once used as a key supply channel to transport goods to the Dutch administration. Home to a thriving fishing community Negombo is the perfect venue to observe fishermen bringing in the day’s catch on a traditional canoe-like fishing vessel called an “oruwa” and massive human-powered catamarans. Visitors can also experience fisher folk culture and view the daily goings-on at the always bustling Llelama which is the country’s second largest fish market.
Retail enthusiasts on the other hand can head down to Kochchikade which is littered with quaint cafes, seafood restaurants and souvenir stores. Spices, handicrafts and precious gems are hot-pick items in Negombo where trendy bars also come alive once the sun goes down.
Travellers in search of a luxurious Negombo hotel with a stunning location should look no further than the Jetwing Blue. Offering holidaymakers a cosy hideaway with contemporary amenities this stylish rest is one of the finest Sri Lanka hotels in the coastal hideaway of Negombo.