Negombo & the Northwest

The Northwest part of Sri Lanka stretches from Negombo to Wilpattu National Park and has a very diverse landscape. The enchanting landscape includes tranquil blue lagoons, scattered little islands, inland wetlands, paddy fields and coconut plantations. The sandy beaches of the Negombo coast have become one of the most popular beach resorts of the island.
Negombo is the closest beach resort to the International Airport of Sri Lanka and blessed with a myriad of attractions around the area. Local attractions include the second largest fish market in the country along with the daily fish auctions, the Muthurajawela marshes which are home to many varieties of fauna, flora and birds, as well as the 100 kilometre long canal network, the Dutch Fort built in 1672, the ancient churches, lagoon boat rides and much more.
Located 160 kilometres from Colombo, you will find the beach of Kalpitiya. Take a boat trip in the waters of Kalpitiya to spot the spectacular creatures of the sea, dolphins and whales. February to March is the best recorded times for sperm whale sightings, and acrobatic pods of spinner dolphins. The rare humpback dolphin has also been known to show up in the waters of Kalpitiya. November to April is recommended for calm seas and the sun kissed beach. The area is also famous for kite surfing catering for beginners to advanced kiters.

Wilpattu, located in the Northwest coast lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka, is among the top national parks world-renowned for its leopard population. The unique feature of Wilpattu National Park is the existence of “Willus” (natural lakes) – natural, sand-rimmed water basins or depressions that fill with rainwater. Nearly sixty lakes (Willu) and tanks are found spread throughout Wilpattu. The park is located 30 kilometres west of Anuradhapura.
Situated in the far Northwest of Sri Lanka in the dry zone, Mannar receives plenty of sun, as well as a healthy breeze blowing throughout the land. Found at the border of two seas, the waters are abundant with life; whilst on land, the district neighbours a vibrant national park. Birdwatching is very popular here, particularly from November through to February, during which time the Northern hemisphere winter migrant species make the long hard journey across thousands of kilometres to enjoy the tropical climate of Mannar.