Negombo Day Tour
Negombo is one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most dynamic coastal cities, located on the western shoreline just 35 km (22 miles) north of Colombo. Set at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon, this vibrant city is not only a major commercial hub and administrative capital of the Negombo Division, but also a top tourist destination in the country. With a population of over 144,000, Negombo is a bustling center of trade, culture, and hospitality.
This historic town, shaped by centuries of Portuguese and Dutch influence, is known for its long stretches of sandy beach, a lively fish market, and a fishing industry that has thrived for generations. It’s also home to Bandaranaike International Airport, making it an ideal starting or ending point for any Sri Lankan journey.
With R & S Travel, your day in Negombo is filled with authentic experiences — from fishing on a traditional catamaran and exploring local markets, to tasting fresh seafood and gliding through the peaceful lagoon mangroves. This day tour offers the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and coastal charm.
- 8:30 AM – Hotel Pickup
Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel in Colombo or Negombo. - 9:30 AM – Traditional Catamaran Fishing Ride
Set off on a thrilling catamaran ride into the Indian Ocean, where you’ll learn and try fishing using both traditional and modern methods. - 10:30 AM – Visit to Lellama Fish Market
Witness the vibrant energy of Negombo’s iconic Lellama, one of Sri Lanka’s largest fish markets. Watch local fishermen unload their catch — including crab, prawns, lobster, squid, and fresh fish. - 11:30 AM – Seafood Selection & Local Market Experience
Select your favorite seafood to be cooked for lunch, and explore the surrounding market area filled with local flavor and culture. - 12:30 PM – Cooking Experience & City Tour
Arrive at a local restaurant where you can either watch the chef prepare your meal or even join in to cook your own seafood platter. Meanwhile, enjoy a brief city tour, exploring colonial churches, canals, and bustling streets. - 2:00 PM – Boat Safari on Negombo Lagoon
Embark on a boat ride through the Negombo Lagoon, known for its lush mangroves and diverse birdlife. Keep an eye out for herons, terns, cormorants, and other species in their natural habitat. - 3:30 PM – Tuk-Tuk Ride through Local Communities
Travel like a local in a tuk-tuk, passing through charming villages and getting a glimpse of daily life. - 5:00 PM – Return to Hotel
Conclude your day with a comfortable return transfer to your hotel.
Negombo is a thriving coastal city in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon. Just 35 km north of Colombo, it serves as a vital economic and tourism center and is home to Bandaranaike International Airport, Sri Lanka’s main international gateway. The city’s location makes it an ideal starting point for travelers, offering easy access to beaches, historic churches, lagoons, and local markets. With its colonial history and strong cultural identity, Negombo captures the essence of coastal Sri Lankan life.
