A beach town with its own unique identity, Negombo, located less than forty kilometres from the capital of Sri Lanka, has gained a reputation amongst locals and tourists alike for being a relaxing and chilled out destination for a holiday. Traditionally dependant on fishing, the economy of the town has diversified exponentially in the past few years. The hybrid nature of the town derived from its colonial history and traditional wares with the booming tourist industry and its beautiful sandy beaches make for an excellent vacation.
For tourists, the sunny beaches of Negombo offer a shore of solitude to soak up the golden rays of the sun and unwind listening to the soothing ocean sounds. For locals, Negombo attractions are almost endless and for those with a curious soul, exploring the town can be a true delight. The Old Dutch Fort Gate, the Dutch Canal, the Grand Street Church and the Agurukaramulla Temple are attractions steeped in culture and in history. Tourists in need of some holistic treatment and relaxation can opt to indulge in some ayurvedic treatments at Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions located just outside Negombo. In terms of cuisine, being a fishing town, Negombo offers some of the most delectable spreads of seafood on the West coast. The town itself is also a melting pot of ethnicities and religions with a majority of Roman Catholics and a minority of Muslims and Buddhists residing in the area.
For an insight into the culture and local atmosphere of Negombo, make a trip to the Fish Market where fishermen sell freshly caught produce as well as the Vegetable and Fruit Market. Explore the historical monuments and sites in the area and enjoy the cooling effects of King Coconut as you indulge in a small break. Ensure that you conclude your day with a cup of tea for a well rounded Negombo experience.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
