Negombo Lagoon, Dutch Canal and Muthurajawela Wetland Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a six-hour sightseeing tour and experience different seaside attractions with a ride through the Dutch Canal Negombo, Negombo Lagoon and Muthurajawela Wetland. You will be able to see Negombo and surrounding areas from the water and witness different types of boats and fishermen in the lagoon. Bird watching in Muthurajawela is one of the best attractions in Negombo and you will get a chance to ride there as well. A light snack and a one-liter bottle of water will be provided during this tour.
Available options
Negombo Lagoon, Dutch Canal and Muthurajawela Wetland Tour
Pickup included
What's included
All Government Taxes.
Refreshment during the boat ride.
Boat and life jackets.
Water and beer during the boat ride.
Pick up and drop off will be provided from most closely located hotels in Negombo.
TUK TUK with English speaking driver.
Detailed itinerary
1
06.00 AM - You will be greeted and picked up by our TUK TUK driver and driven you to the starting point.
06.30 AM - On arrival at the starting point, our guide will give you a brief introduction and safety requirements about the tour. Thereafter you will start your ride from Negombo Dutch Canal. The Dutch Canal is a 14.5 km (9.0 mi) canal connecting Puttalam to Colombo, passing through Negombo in Sri Lanka. The canal was constructed by the British in 1802 and completed in 1804. It was designed to drain salt water out of the Muthurajawela wetlands.
08.00 AM – After the canal ride you will proceed to the Negombo Lagoon which is fed by several rivers and linked to the sea by a narrow channel to the north, near Negombo city. It is surrounded by a densely populated region containing rice paddies, coconut plantations, and grassland. The land is used for fishing and agriculture. The lagoon has extensive mangrove swamps and attracts a wide variety of water birds including cormorants, herons, egrets, gulls, terns, and other waders. Lagoon fishing is popular among the fishing community while Lagoon crabs and lagoon prawns are in high taste and demand.
10.00 AM – Leave the lagoon behind and proceed into the Elakanda Canal, which provides access to the Muthurajawela Wetland. The Muthurajawela Wetlands supports over 192 distinct species of flora and 209 distinct species of fauna, including Slender Loris, as well as another 102 species of birds. Some of the identified species have been shown to be indigenous to this beautiful marsh.
11.30 AM – After a memorable tour, you will be driven back to your hotel by our driver.
12.00 PM – You will be dropped off at your hotel.
2
Dutch Canal.
3
Negombo Lagoon.
4
Muthurajawela Wetland.
What's not included
Gratuities.
Anything that not mentioned in inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be ready at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before the pick up time.
Please bring valid passports for security purposes.
Please wear comfortable clothes for the tour.
Meeting point
Pick up and drop off will be provided from most closley locqated hotels in Negombo.
About Negombo
Negombo is a vibrant coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, historic Dutch-era architecture, and the bustling fish market. Often called 'Little Rome' due to its significant Catholic population and churches, it offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and lively local life.
Top Attractions
Negombo Beach
Negombo Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand along the Indian Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning sunsets.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Negombo Fish Market
The Negombo Fish Market is one of the largest and most vibrant fish markets in Sri Lanka. It's a bustling hub where fishermen sell their daily catch, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood.
Market
1-2 hours
Free (Food purchases extra)
St. Mary's Church
St. Mary's Church is a historic Catholic church in Negombo, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It's a popular pilgrimage site and a key landmark in the city.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free
Dutch Canal
The Dutch Canal is a historic waterway built by the Dutch during their colonial period. It's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk or boat ride, offering glimpses of local life and nature.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (Boat rides extra)
Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage
Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage is a peaceful retreat nestled in a lush forest. It's a great place for meditation, hiking, and experiencing the serenity of nature.
Nature
Half day
Free (Donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked with spices and served with gravy.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Seafood Curry
A flavorful curry made with fresh seafood, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with rice.
Dinner
Contains seafood and coconut.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (unless with egg).
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in meat stock, wrapped in a banana leaf with meat, sambol, and a hard-boiled egg.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and fish.
Popular Activities
Water sports
Boat safaris
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Visiting temples and churches
Exploring local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.
26-30°C
79-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Negombo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)
By train
Negombo Railway Station
By bus
Negombo Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Negombo. They connect the city center with beaches, markets, and other attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Negombo City Center
Negombo Beach
Lunuwila
Day trips
Colombo
35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day
Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.
Kelani River Safari
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
A scenic boat safari along the Kelani River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.
Muthurajawela Marsh
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A unique wetland ecosystem located near Negombo, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat rides, and nature walks.
Festivals
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Christmas Celebrations • December 25
Pro tips
- Visit the Negombo Fish Market early in the morning to see the fresh catch and experience the bustling atmosphere.
- Take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal to enjoy the scenic views and learn about its history.
- Try local seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and prawn curry, for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the historic St. Mary's Church and learn about its significance to the local Catholic community.
- Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
