Half-Day Negombo City Tour with Ayurvedic Massage & Local Lunch
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Half-Day Negombo City Tour with Ayurvedic Massage & Local Lunch

Active
(86 reviews)
5h - 7h
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

Spend a relaxing and culturally rich half day in the coastal city of Negombo. Your tour begins with a guided visit to the city’s key landmarks, including the colorful Negombo Fish Market, historic churches, the Buddhist Angurukaramulla Temple, and the scenic Dutch Canal. Along the way, your local guide shares stories about the city’s colonial past, religious diversity, and vibrant daily life.

Next, head to a professional wellness center for a 75-minute full-body Ayurvedic massage using natural herbal oils. This traditional Sri Lankan healing practice helps release tension and promote relaxation through therapeutic pressure and herbal remedies.

Finish your experience with a hearty Sri Lankan lunch served at a local restaurant or homestay. Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared local dishes such as rice, dhal curry, vegetable curries, sambol, and more.

This tour is ideal for those looking to blend cultural discovery, relaxation, and culinary enjoyment in a short amount of time.

Available options

City Tour & massage - Lunch

Duration: 5 hours<br/>Lunch<br/>Negombo City<br/>Air conditioner car (private)<br/>Ayurvedic massage (Full Body)<br/>Pickup included

City Tour & massage - Dinner

Dinner<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
English-speaking local guide
75-minute Ayurvedic massage (Head to Toe)
Transfers from hotel and back
Sri Lankan lunch (rice & curry)
Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

1

Negombo was home to Sri Lankan fishermen and women who engaged in traditional fishing methods long before the city became a renowned beach destination with hundreds of beach resorts lining its sandy shore.
This large fish market, located at the western end of Negombo's seashore, is the center of all morning action. The Negombo Fish Market is one of Sri Lanka's largest and most important markets, which drives Negombo's economy.

2

From the time Sri Lanka was controlled by the Portuguese, the Christian faith has had a strong effect on Negombo. Because of the city's huge number of churches, it is commonly referred to as "Little Rome."

The church's construction began in 1874 and was finished in 1922, after a lengthy break. The art and architecture of this church, as well as a few other comparable buildings in Sri Lanka, reflect the early twentieth-century cultural fusion of European practice with Sri Lankan art and architecture.

3

The Angurukaramulla Temple is one of Negombo's most well-known temples. It is well-known for its Buddha statue and a spectacular dragon entryway. To enter the temple, one must pass through the dragon's mouth, which is said to ward off evil spirits.

A 300-year-old moss-covered remains of an ancient library may also be seen at the temple. There are several trees in the temple, as well as a pond with turtles. The temple also features several murals, ceiling paintings, and elaborate sculptures depicting Buddha's path to enlightenment.

4

Sri Singama Kali Amman Kovil in Negombo is a Hindu religious site devoted to Ganesh, the Hindu deity of beginnings who is represented by an elephant.

Ganesh is the patron of scholars, financiers, scribes, and authors, and is typically worshipped before any major undertaking.

5

Also known as Hamilton Canal is a 14.5 km (9.0 mi) canal connecting Puttalam to Colombo, passing through Negombo in Sri Lanka.

The canal was started in 1802 by the British and finished in 1804. Its purpose was to remove saline water from the Muthurajawela marshes. Gavin Hamilton, the Government Agent of Revenue and Commerce, was honored with the canal's name.

6

The Negombo Dry Fish Processing Area is a fascinating spot where visitors can witness Sri Lanka’s traditional fish preservation techniques.

Here, freshly caught fish—mainly tuna, sprats, and mackerel—are salted and sun-dried on large racks under the tropical sun.

This centuries-old method enhances the flavor and shelf life of the fish, making it a staple in local cuisine. You can walk through the drying fields, interact with local fish processors, and learn about the labor-intensive process that supports many coastal families.

The area offers a truly authentic glimpse into Sri Lanka’s fishing heritage.

7

St. Sebastian’s Church, located on Sea Street in Negombo, Sri Lanka, is a beautiful blend of colonial and modern architecture. Built in the 16th century, it honors St. Sebastian, the church's patron saint. The church’s white exterior and elegant arches make it a striking landmark. It holds historical and cultural significance, serving as a vital place of worship for the local Catholic community. Annual festivals, particularly the Feast of St. Sebastian, are celebrated with lively processions and prayers. The church offers a peaceful escape, with its serene ambiance perfect for quiet reflection. Located near Negombo’s coastline, visitors can easily combine a church visit with time at the beach, making it a perfect destination for both spiritual reflection and cultural exploration.

8

Ayurvedic Full Body Massage – 90 minutes
Enjoy a relaxing herbal oil massage in a local Ayurvedic center

9

Sri Lankan Lunch – 45 minutes
Sri lankan rice and curry lunch at a local restaurant or guesthouse

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Written guide
AR DE RU IT PL FR ES
Guide guide
JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7
15 reviews
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1
Tripadvisor 4.9
71 reviews
5★
66
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1★
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Important information

Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Modest dress required for religious sites
Vegetarian option available upon request

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 7-99
1
Childs
Age 2-6
0
Infants
Age 0-1
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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