Famously known as Little Rome, Negombo is a coastal town close to the international airport, and perhaps one of the first towns to embrace Catholicism during the island’s Portuguese period. Today, it has the largest Catholic community in Sri Lanka. Explore the hidden treasures of this thriving town with visits to the legendary fish market, where the fresh catch comes in straight from the ocean and is either sold at the busy market minutes away or sun-dried out in the open sand.

Visit the ancient temple of Agurukaramulla, which has paintings done by renowned local painter Solias Mendis. The temple is also home to a 300-year-old library that boasts an extensive range of books. Explore one of the oldest Dutch forts in the island in Negombo and drop in at the home-turned-museum of Rukmani Devi, considered as the ‘Nightingale of Sri Lanka.’ End your evening at a local hangout sipping locally brewed Lovi-lovi wine and Jaffna rolled cigars. The host for this experience is a local from Negombo who rarely lingers out of the comfort of his confines. His passion for history is tied together with his personal ambitions of sustainability. His affectionate attitude and cheerful deminer make for a great evening with a true ambassador if this colourful city.

Note: Wear light cool clothing, sunscreen, cap, and bring a camera. This experience takes place at 8:00am or 4:00pm.