Beautiful Negombo.

Negombo is one of Sri Lanka’s most vibrant coastal cities, located just 15–20 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport. It is the perfect first stop for tourists arriving in Sri Lanka, offering beaches, history, culture, nightlife, and unique local experiences.

• 1. Key Attractions in Negombo

➤ Negombo Beach

A long, golden sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, evening walks and watersports. Popular for windsurfing, catamaran rides and beach bars.

➤ Negombo Lagoon

A beautiful lagoon surrounded by mangroves, fishermen’s villages, and wildlife. Tourists can take boat safaris, bird-watching tours, and explore canal routes.

➤ Muthurajawela Wetlands

A protected marshland with rich biodiversity. A boat tour through this marsh offers sightings of birds, reptiles, and untouched nature.

➤ Angurukaramulla Temple

One of the most famous Buddhist temples in Negombo with a giant Buddha statue, ancient murals and a dragon-mouth entrance.

➤ St. Mary’s Church

A historic Catholic church known for its colourful ceiling paintings and colonial architecture. Negombo is called “Little Rome” because of its Christian heritage.

➤ Fish Market (Lellama)

The biggest fish market on the west coast. Best visited early morning to see fishermen bringing in fresh tuna, crabs, prawns and more.

➤ Dutch Fort & Hamilton Canal

Historic Dutch-built canal routes that once connected Negombo and Colombo. Boat tours are available.

• 2. Things to Do in Negombo

Boat tours in the lagoon & canals

Seafood tasting & cooking classes

Watersports: windsurfing, kitesurfing, snorkeling

Sunset cruises

Explore the old Dutch-era streets

Experience nightlife: beach clubs, pubs, live music

• 3. Best Hotels in Negombo (with distance to Airport)

Luxury Hotels (4–5 Star)

Heritance Negombo – 13 km from airport (20 min)

Jetwing Blue – 12 km from airport

Jetwing Lagoon – 18 km from airport

Regal Réseau Hotel & Spa – 10 km from airport

Mid-Range Hotels

Goldi Sands Hotel – 13 km

Camelot Beach Hotel – 13 km

Pledge Scape – 11 km

Budget Hotels / Guesthouses

Topaz Beach Hotel

Mama’s Guesthouse

Suriya Resort (Wattala area)

Negombo offers hundreds of options for all budgets.

• 4. Distance From Airport

Bandaranaike Airport → Negombo Town: 8–10 km

Travel time by taxi / PickMe: 15–20 minutes

Ideal for short stays, stopovers, or first-night accommodation.

• 5. Safety & Travel Tips

Negombo is generally safe for tourists.

Use PickMe, Uber or hotel taxis for transport.

Early mornings are the best time to visit markets and the beach.

Beware of overpriced tuk-tuks; always ask for the meter.

Dress modestly when visiting temples and churches.

• 6. Sample 1-Day Itinerary (Perfect for Transit/Short Stay)

Morning
✔ Visit the Fish Market
✔ Negombo Lagoon boat safari

Afternoon
✔ Angurukaramulla Temple
✔ Lunch at a seafood restaurant
✔ Explore the Dutch Canal

Evening
✔ Relax at Negombo Beach
✔ Enjoy sunset and nightlife

Start your journey with ease as soon as you land. At the airport, simply select your preferred vehicle through ST Travel, and enjoy a comfortable ride straight to Negombo. Within minutes, you can explore the city’s golden beaches, historical sites, and lively streets at your own pace.

Negombo also offers a wide range of comfortable and affordable hotels, making it perfect for travellers who want to refresh and relax after a long flight. Whether you prefer a luxury beachfront resort or a cosy budget stay, everything you need is conveniently located and easily accessible.

With ST Travel, your holiday begins the moment you arrive — easy vehicle selection, quick airport pick-up, and hassle-free hotel options for a perfect start in Negombo.