Negombo is a well-known traditional fishing town and a famous tourist destination. It lies at the mouth of Negombo lagoon; set amid lush grove coconut palm trees feeling the real spirit of the sea. It is located about 37 km north of Colombo. The wide sandy beaches and the safe sea are the main attractions while perfectly located within 7 km from the Bandaranaike International Airport.

Canoes and catamarans used as fishing vessels can still be seen there. Negombo has a small port, and its economy is mainly based on tourism and the centuries-old fishing industry. No wonder the town is a gourmet food lover’s paradise with plenty of seafood available. Spices, ceramics and brassware are also produced there.

The town is worth a visit for its colonial charm. Once a smaller fishing town, it became the first resort of the country. It was used as the main export port for cinnamon by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. The town has a majority of Roman Catholics along with Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims while it has been given the name “Little Rome” due to the highly ornate Portuguese-era Roman Catholic churches found within the township. There are several buildings that date back to the Dutch and Portuguese colonial era.

Attractions in the city include the old Dutch fort gate built in 1672 now a part of the prison, the Dutch Canal which was then a supply route to the Dutch administration, old churches and fishing villages. The 100km long canal running through the town is still being used and is an attraction for those who want to see the country from a different perspective.

This beach town is easily accessible from E03 expressway when leaving from Colombo to the airport or after arrival in Sri Lanka.