Tag: Heritance Negombo

Exploring Negombo – Unique and Offbeat Attractions for a Different Experience

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Sri Lanka’s western coast, Negombo is renowned for its pristine beaches, bustling fish markets, and vibrant cultural scene. While its popular attractions are well-known, Negombo also boasts a wealth of hidden gems and offbeat experiences waiting to be discovered. Uncover the lesser-known treasures of Negombo, offering a unique and memorable experience for travellers seeking something different.

Dutch Canal Boat Ride:

Boat rides in Negombo dutch canal | Image via Wikimedia Commons

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embark on a serene boat ride along Negombo’s scenic Dutch Canal. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century for transportation and trade, the canal offers a tranquil escape from the city streets, winding through lush mangrove forests and picturesque villages. Glide past traditional fishing boats and colourful houses, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of this hidden waterway.

Angurukaramulla Temple:

Explore the Angurukaramulla Temple, a hidden gem and one of the best places to visit in Negombo. Adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and towering statues, this ancient temple offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. Marvel at the imposing statue of a reclining Buddha, said to be one of the largest in Sri Lanka and explore the temple’s tranquil gardens and sacred shrines, where devotees come to pay their respects and seek blessings.

Muthurajawela Marsh:

Discover the natural wonders of Muthurajawela Marsh, one of Sri Lanka’s largest wetland ecosystems and a haven for biodiversity. Join a guided boat tour through the marshes, where you can spot a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and eagles, as well as crocodiles, monitor lizards, and water monitors. Learn about the unique flora and fauna of the marshland and gain insight into the importance of wetland conservation efforts in Sri Lanka.

Negombo Fish Market:

Experience the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of Negombo’s bustling fish market, where fishermen haul in their catch of the day and local vendors sell an array of fresh seafood straight from the Indian Ocean. Wander through the maze of stalls and witness the lively atmosphere as fishermen negotiate prices and buyers haggle for the freshest catch. For a truly authentic experience, visit the market in the early morning hours to witness the hustle and bustle of the fish auctions. You can easily do this if you’re staying at a hotel like Sentido Heritance Negombo as its just 9 minutes away from the market.

Negombo Beach Park:

Escape the crowds and unwind at Negombo Beach Park, a serene oasis of palm-fringed beaches and tranquil waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, bask in the warm tropical sun, or simply relax and soak up the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. With its tranquil ambience and pristine natural beauty, Negombo Beach Park offers the perfect setting for a peaceful retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Deep Sea Fishing in Negombo

Deep-sea fishing is one of the most exciting water sports you can try out. It’s an opportunity to wrestle with some of the toughest games in the oceans, and though it can be taxing, it’s also incredibly rewarding.

Adam Jones from Kelowna, BC, Canada, Beach Scene at Sunset – Negombo – Sri Lanka (14050166719), CC BY-SA 2.0

Why Negombo
The waters that border Negombo is home to some of the largest big game fish found in Sri Lanka’s coastal regions. The Negombo Lagoon is also home to some large species which prefer brackish water. If you’re staying at a Negombo beach hotel – say, for example, the Heritance Negombo – all of this is only a few minutes away.

The Game
There’s plenty of trophy fish for you to test your mettle against in Negombo. The most sought-after specimens include awesome oceanic predators like the marlin, barracuda, swordfish, and even a few shark varieties.

Setting Off
In order to stand the best chance of snagging some big game, you’ll want to set off just before dawn. Most of the trophy fish species are voracious predators and they are most active during this time of the day. Add some bait, cast your line, and wait patiently for a bite.

A Feast Awaits
Once you hook a giant, the real challenge begins. Big game fish can put up quite the fight and it might take hours for you to reel one in. Don’t let up though, the reward at the end is more than worth it.

Honza or Markéta, Negombo beach, drying fish (001), CC BY-SA 3.0