Western Province

Negombo Beach, located in Negombo, Sri Lanka, is a popular destination known for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local culture. It’s a bustling coastal town with a blend of historical and modern influences. The beach itself offers a mix of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports like kite surfing and windsurfing. While it’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, it’s also known for its proximity to the Bandaranaike International Airport, making it a convenient starting or ending point for trips to Sri Lanka.

The Negombo Dutch Fort, situated approximately 30 kilometers north of Colombo, is a historical landmark that reflects Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Originally constructed by the Portuguese in the early 17th century to protect their cinnamon trade routes, the fort was later captured and rebuilt by the Dutch in 1672. Although much of the original structure has deteriorated over time, remnants such as sections of the walls and the main gate still stand, offering visitors a glimpse into its former grandeur. Today, the fort’s ruins serve as a poignant reminder of the strategic importance of Negombo during colonial times and are a point of interest for those exploring the region’s rich history.

Negombo Lagoon, located on Sri Lanka’s western coast near the city of Negombo, is a vast estuarine lagoon covering approximately 35 square kilometers. Fed by rivers such as the Ja-Ela and Attanagalu Oya, as well as the historic Hamilton Canal, the lagoon connects to the Indian Ocean through a narrow channel to the north. Surrounded by rice paddies, coconut plantations, and grasslands, the area supports both agriculture and fishing. The lagoon’s extensive mangrove swamps provide a habitat for a diverse array of water birds, including cormorants, herons, egrets, gulls, and terns. Traditional fishing methods are still employed by local communities, harvesting lagoon crabs, prawns, and various fish species that are highly prized in local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, bird watching, and exploring the rich biodiversity of this serene environment.

The Negombo Fish Market, locally known as “Lellama,” is one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most vibrant seafood markets, offering a vivid glimpse into the country’s coastal life. Located at the northern tip of the Negombo Lagoon, the market springs to life as early as 3:30 AM, when around 4,000 fishing boats return with their daily catch. Visitors can witness a bustling scene where fishermen unload a diverse array of seafood, including tuna, mackerel, sardines, crabs, prawns, and cuttlefish. The market is divided into two main sections: the wet market, where fresh fish are sold, and the dry fish area, where fish are sun-dried on coconut fiber mats using traditional methods. This lively marketplace not only serves as a crucial economic hub for the local community but also offers tourists an authentic experience of Sri Lanka’s rich fishing heritage.

Muthurajawela Marsh is a significant wetland area in Sri Lanka, located 30 km north of Colombo, near Negombo. It’s the largest saline coastal peat bog in the country and a protected sanctuary covering 3,068 hectares. The marsh is known for its diverse ecosystem and is considered one of Sri Lanka’s 12 priority wetlands.

St. Mary’s Church in Negombo is one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most iconic Roman Catholic churches, reflecting the city’s rich colonial and religious heritage. Construction began in 1874 and was completed in 1922, showcasing a neoclassical architectural style with grand white columns and plain walls. The church’s interior is adorned with alabaster images of saints and intricate ceiling paintings depicting the life of Christ, created by N.S. Godamanne, a local Buddhist artist. Located on Grand Street, this active place of worship stands as a testament to Negombo’s nickname “Little Rome,” highlighting its significant Catholic population and numerous churches. Visitors are welcome to explore the church’s serene ambiance and appreciate its historical and artistic significance.

Gangaramaya Temple, located near Colombo’s Beira Lake, is one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned Buddhist temples. Founded in the 19th century, it blends Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles, offering a unique cultural experience. The temple complex includes a main shrine, a museum filled with religious artifacts, and a serene meditation center on the lake. Known for its vibrant festivals like the annual Navam Perahera, Gangaramaya is not only a place of worship but also a community hub, supporting social services such as vocational training, an orphanage, and homes for the elderly.

The National Museum of Natural History is a museum that covers the natural heritage of Sri Lanka. The museum is located closer to the National Museum of Colombo. It was established on September 23, 1986 and became only one museum in Sri Lanka that represents natural history and natural heritage.

Galle Face Green is a prominent oceanfront urban park in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Established in 1859 by British Governor Sir Henry George Ward, it spans approximately 5 hectares along the coast, offering a spacious promenade between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean. Originally used for horse racing and other sports, it has evolved into a popular recreational area for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, fly kites, savor street food like spicy lentil patties with prawns, and witness stunning sunsets. The park is also a venue for national celebrations and public gatherings, reflecting its significance in Colombo’s social and cultural landscape.

Pettah Market, located in the heart of Colombo, is a bustling open-air bazaar renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods. Dating back to the Dutch colonial period in the 17th century, the market has evolved into a labyrinth of streets, each specializing in different products—from fresh produce and textiles to electronics and jewelry. Landmarks like the Khan Clock Tower and the iconic Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, add historical charm to the area. The market’s multicultural environment reflects Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic local shopping experience.

Barefoot Gallery Colombo is a vibrant cultural hub that showcases Sri Lanka’s contemporary art scene. Originally established as the Colombo Gallery in 1966 by artist and designer Barbara Sansoni, it was later rebranded as Gallery 706 in 1991 and finally became Barefoot Gallery in 1999. Located on Galle Road, the gallery hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, including works by local and international artists, as well as events like concerts, poetry readings, and film nights. The space also features a courtyard café and a bookshop, making it a popular gathering spot for art enthusiasts and creatives in Colombo.