Negombo Fort (Dutch Fort Ruins)

A small Dutch-era fort gate and remnants of ramparts near the lagoon mouth, built by the Dutch in the 17th century on earlier Portuguese foundations. Little remains beyond the main gate structure and parts of the wall, now sitting beside a cricket ground, but it marks Negombo's role in the colonial cinnamon trade. It's a five-minute stop rather than a destination in itself. It ranks among Negombo's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one.

You walk through a weathered stone archway onto open grass, with the lagoon visible beyond and the sound of a cricket match often filling the air.

It's a quick, free way to touch Negombo's Portuguese-then-Dutch colonial history on the way to or from the lagoon. That puts it near the top of any Negombo visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Lellama Fish Market and St. Mary's Church Negombo - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Negombo. Afternoon tends to work best here.

See where it ranks among the things to do in Negombo. The Negombo guide covers transport, costs and when to go.

We plan trips to Negombo and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.