How to plan your family holiday in Negombo, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a destination that a traveller should visit at least once in their lifetime. Its culture, people, cities and wildlife create a magical vibe, which cannot be expressed with words. Every city in this tropical destination is excellent. If you plan to explore the city of Negombo in Sri Lanka during your next visit, take this article as your guide. From what's so special about this city to where to stay- this article covers everything!
Negombo_Beach,_Sri_Lanka | img via Wikipedia commons
1) Negombo- the overview
Located in the Western province of Sri Lanka, the city of Negombo is not too far away from the Commercial Capital of the country- Colombo. Negombo is also very close to the BIA (the main Airport) offering convenience to every foreign traveller. It's a coastal city, earlier known as a fishing village. Unlike most other cities in Sri Lanka, Negombo has a different vibe. Its people have a chilled and active lifestyle, and they often have various celebrations.
2) Planning your time of visit
There's no such thing as the best time to visit Negombo because it's a nice city throughout the year. But, as per many locals, travellers should come to this city when it's all bright and shiny. So, the dry season falls from November to April, and this time can be called the best accordingly. Since this time is recommended by tour guides for Negombo tours, the city gets crowded with tourists during this season. So, expect bigger crowds and higher price rates if you plan to explore Negombo during this peak season. Note- If you prefer some peace and quiet, choose to visit Negombo during the off-season. The off-season falls from May to October. You won't find large crowds during this season, and the prices are also relatively lower. However, some days during this season can be rainy!
3) Staying in Negombo
Since this city has a nice beach, how about staying at a Negombo beach hotel? Not only do you get the chance to enjoy the beach vibes at their fullest, but you also get to enjoy some great hospitality services. Heritance Negombo is one of the most popular hotel options you come across in this city, and it's great for any type of holiday- be it a family vacation or a corporate holiday. Do not forget to experience the wellness that an Ayurvedic spa treatment brings you during the time of your hotel stay.
4) Food in Negombo
Not surprisingly, this coastal city is famous for its seafood. You find several dishes made of seafood, and each one of them is super delicious. Food in Sri Lanka is known to be mouthwatering, mainly because of the usage of traditional spices. So, when these spices are added to ultra-fresh seafood, this combination is even more mouthwatering, as you can imagine. Ambulthiyal, Fish curry, cuttlefish curry, fried prawns and pol sambal are some of the most popular dishes in Negombo. You may try out these during your holiday spent in Negombo.
5) What to explore in Negombo?
Negombo, although is a coastal city, is not just about the beach. You can also explore the Old Dutch Fort (the ruins), St Mary's Church which is over 100 years old, the Dutch Canal and the Negombo lagoon when you are there. Go bird-watching at the Muthurajawela Marsh if you are someone who loves to connect with nature. This will be a mind-relaxing experience, for sure!
6) Getting around
During your stay in Negombo, you may use tuk-tuks to get around in the city. They are readily available, but can charge you some big amounts eve for a short trip. Negotiate the price before you get in, or else- use the metered taxis.
