Colonial Architecture in Negombo

Sri Lanka has fallen under foreign rule at various times in its history. The most recent instance started with the accidental discovery of the island by Portuguese explorer Lorenzo de Almeida. This discovery eventually led to the Portuguese take-over of many parts of Sri Lanka. The island would subsequently fall under Dutch, then British rule before finally gaining independence in 1948. The decades of colonial rule have left a permanent mark on the country, adding flavour and a bit of old world charm to the South Asian tourist destination.

Examples of colonial architecture can be found throughout the island, with the Dutch Fort in Galle being the most well-known. The Sri Lankan city of Negombo also has its fair share of colonial buildings. The most famous examples of colonial architecture in Negombo are the Dutch Fort (also called the Star Fort) and the Dutch Canal. The fort was built in 1672 and is remarkably well preserved. The canal is roughly one hundred kilometres long and is still in use today. One can find several other ruins dating to the colonial era in this tourist town. 

Negombo is the island’s fifth largest city and is a well-known tourist spot. It is located roughly thirty seven kilometres from the capital, Colombo. Located on the island’s west coast, Negombo has several great beaches and a delightful nightlife scene. Since the city is situated so close to the Bandaranaike International Airport (which is about seven kilometres away) many tourists opt to stop by either when leaving or heading towards the airport. One can find many shops selling locally made handicrafts that make excellent souvenirs.

Tourists planning on staying in the city and are looking for a good hotel in Negombo can try Club Hotel Dolphin. Here guests can have fun trying out a variety of activities such as horseback riding and kayaking before heading over to the hotel’s spa to unwind. Situated by the beach, this Negombo hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the rest of Negombo. When it comes to travel, the best way to explore the city is by three-wheeler (colloquially referred to as ‘tuk tuks’).