Negombo , Sri Lanka

Private City Tour in Negombo

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(3 reviews)

2h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Be picked up from your Hotel/Meeting Point

Visit the Negombo ‘Lellama’ Fish Market, the second largest market in the country. See fresh daily catch of different types of fish and seafood.

Next, reflect to a piece of colonial history by a visit to the Negombo Dutch Fort. Originally built by the Portuguese in a pentagonal style.

Thereafter visit the Dutch Canal and then proceed to the Negombo Lagoon which is the main landmark of Negombo. It is rich in biodiversity of plants and animals and aquatic ecosystem.

Stop at St. Mary’s Church, one of the largest churches in Sri Lanka. Embrace its neoclassic style of beautiful and extraordinary European art and architecture stemming from the colonial eras.

Finally, visit the “Angurukaramulla ancient buddhist temple” which is home to the ruins of a historic, moss-covered library, and beautiful paintings, sculptures that date back centuries.

Enjoy a refreshing King Coconut drink to end the city tour in style.

Return to your hotel.

Available options

Negombo City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Fuel surcharge

Parking Fees

Transportation to/from attractions

Detailed itinerary

The lagoon is fed by a number of small rivers and the Hamilton Canal (also known as the Dutch canal). It is linked to the sea by a narrow channel to the north, near Negombo city. It is surrounded by a densely populated region containing rice paddies, coconut plantations and grassland. The land is used for fishing and agriculture. The lagoon has extensive mangrove swamps and attracts a wide variety of water birds including cormorants, herons, egrets, gulls, terns and other waders.

Chaos, so many fish, shellfish, vendors and people shouting..a typical scene of a local market, Negombo fish market is the second largest in the country. A vibrant market which is busy and bustling with individuals vending and bargaining.

St. Mary's Church is a landmark edifice, a Roman Catholic church in the heart of Negombo. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Sri Lanka. The church was built in neoclassicism style with columns and plain walls. Its ceilings are painted with alabaster images of many saints.

In the heart of the city of Negombo, in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, the Angurukaramulla Temple is known for the dragon-head that guards its entrance and its six-metre-tall statue of Lord Buddha. The dragon lies in the shadow of Lord Buddha’s large statue, watching a serene pool of water in front of it. Visitors to the temple should take care to dress respectfully, covering their arms and shoulders.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Landing and facility fees

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

A current valid passport is preferred on the day of travel

Meeting point

Travellers will be picked up from their Hotel in Negombo or from the Airport as requested.

Important notes

Please be kind enough to contact the supplier directly once the booking is made.

Whatsapp/Imo/WeChat/Facetime +94775446838 - Dinal

About Negombo

Negombo is a vibrant coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, historic Dutch-era architecture, and the bustling fish market. Often called 'Little Rome' due to its significant Catholic population and churches, it offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and lively local life.

Top Attractions

Negombo Beach

Negombo Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand along the Indian Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning sunsets.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Negombo Fish Market

The Negombo Fish Market is one of the largest and most vibrant fish markets in Sri Lanka. It's a bustling hub where fishermen sell their daily catch, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood.

Market 1-2 hours Free (Food purchases extra)

St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is a historic Catholic church in Negombo, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It's a popular pilgrimage site and a key landmark in the city.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Dutch Canal

The Dutch Canal is a historic waterway built by the Dutch during their colonial period. It's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk or boat ride, offering glimpses of local life and nature.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Boat rides extra)

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage is a peaceful retreat nestled in a lush forest. It's a great place for meditation, hiking, and experiencing the serenity of nature.

Nature Half day Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked with spices and served with gravy.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Seafood Curry

A flavorful curry made with fresh seafood, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with rice.

Dinner Contains seafood and coconut.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast Vegetarian (unless with egg).

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in meat stock, wrapped in a banana leaf with meat, sambol, and a hard-boiled egg.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish.

Popular Activities

Water sports Boat safaris Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting temples and churches Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.

26-30°C 79-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Negombo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)

By train

Negombo Railway Station

By bus

Negombo Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Negombo. They connect the city center with beaches, markets, and other attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Negombo City Center Negombo Beach Lunuwila

Day trips

Colombo

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.

Kelani River Safari

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A scenic boat safari along the Kelani River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.

Muthurajawela Marsh

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A unique wetland ecosystem located near Negombo, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat rides, and nature walks.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year) Christmas Celebrations • December 25

Pro tips

Visit the Negombo Fish Market early in the morning to see the fresh catch and experience the bustling atmosphere.
Take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal to enjoy the scenic views and learn about its history.
Try local seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and prawn curry, for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the historic St. Mary's Church and learn about its significance to the local Catholic community.
Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.