Negombo

Negombo, affectionately known as "Little Rome" due to its predominantly Catholic population and magnificent colonial churches, stands as Sri Lanka's premier gateway destination. Located just 7 kilometers from Bandaranaike International Airport and 37 kilometers north of Colombo, this vibrant coastal city seamlessly blends centuries-old fishing traditions with modern tourism infrastructure, making it the perfect introduction to Sri Lanka's coastal beauty and cultural diversity.

Negombo's identity is deeply rooted in its centuries-old fishing industry, which continues to thrive as one of Sri Lanka's most important fishing ports. The famous Negombo Fish Market, one of the largest in the country, comes alive before dawn as hundreds of traditional outrigger boats called "oruwa" and larger catamarans called "paruvas" return with their overnight catches. Visitors can witness the fascinating spectacle of fishermen sorting, auctioning, and selling their catch while women vendors prepare fish for local and export markets.

The Hamilton Canal (Dutch Canal), originally built during the Dutch colonial period, flows through the heart of the city and continues to serve as a vital waterway for local fishermen to access the sea. This historic 120-kilometer canal system connects Negombo to Colombo in the south and Puttalam in the north, demonstrating the engineering prowess of Dutch colonial administrators.

Negombo earned its nickname "Little Rome" due to the impressive collection of over 25 Roman Catholic churches within the city limits, reflecting the strong Portuguese colonial influence and subsequent Catholic conversions. St. Mary's Church, built in 1874, showcases magnificent neo-classical architecture with intricate interior artwork and serves as the spiritual heart of the community.

St. Sebastian's Church in Katuwapitiya, completed in 1936, features stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture and hosts the annual St. Sebastian's feast in January, attracting thousands of pilgrims. The Dutch Fort ruins, constructed in 1672, provide glimpses into the strategic importance of this coastal settlement during various colonial periods.

Negombo Beach stretches for over 7 kilometers of golden sand coastline, offering excellent swimming, sunbathing, and water sports opportunities. The beach is famous for its spectacular sunsets, traditional sailing boats, and beachside restaurants serving the freshest seafood. Popular water activities include windsurfing, kite surfing, catamaran sailing, jet skiing, and traditional fishing boat excursions.

The Negombo Lagoon, one of the most scenic landmarks, supports over 190 species of wildlife and numerous bird species in its extensive mangrove ecosystems. The lagoon provides excellent opportunities for boat safaris, bird watching, and eco-tourism experiences.

Despite its Catholic majority (65% of the population), Negombo exemplifies Sri Lanka's religious harmony with Buddhist temples, Hindu kovils, and historic mosques coexisting peacefully. The Angurukaramulla Raja Maha Viharaya features an impressive 60-meter-long reclining Buddha statue and colorful murals depicting Buddhist Jataka tales, while various Hindu temples serve the Tamil community and the Udayar Thoppuwa Mosque, built in 1846, represents the Muslim heritage.