Negombo

Negombo is located north of the capital, Colombo, on Sri Lanka's western coast and is ideal for a stop at the beginning or end of a visit, since the Bandaranaike International Airport is located only 6 miles from here. This former fishing centre was transformed into a commercial town by the Portuguese and the Dutch, whose influence can still be seen today in its numerous colourful markets, churches and colonial buildings. The evangelistic efforts of the Portuguese colonists were such a success that the locals are still Catholics.
Nearly 5 miles long, the sandy beach surrounded by a forest of coconut trees is especially popular for seaside holidays. Here visitors will find a multitude of hotels, inns and restaurants. The local population survives on its tourism and fishing industries. Something visitors might find interesting about Negombo is that the Dutch built a canal here that crosses the city parallel to the coast.