Negombo, Sri Lanka - Beautiful Relaxing Seaside House in village near

Negombo -West Winds is a brightly coloured house sitting in an acre of tropical garden within the peaceful fishing village, Dungalpitiya (near Negombo). It is situated directly on the beach and has the most amazing sunsets every night. You cannot swim at the beach directly outside the house but there are rock pools nearby perfect for paddling, and we have arranged a discount at a nearby hotel’s swimming pool. Alternatively, you could do a trip into Negombo (7 km away), a town full of tourist activities such as wind surfing, kite sailing, sailing etc. plus bars and restaurants. The garden is lovely for children and has a trampoline, hammocks, chickens and three friendly dogs. There is also a volleyball net, cricket equipment and lots of toys and books. The house is fully staffed with delicious local meals prepared by our wonderful cook. All washing, cleaning and cooking can be added for a price, £15 per person per day. We have contact numbers for vehicles that can be hired for long journeys. Sri Lanka is blessed with many different types of wetland, such as estuaries, lagoons, sea grass beds, mangroves and marshes. These areas are of immense environmental, economic and social importance, yet they are increasingly under threat. Part of the marsh known as Muthurajawela near Negombo is a protected area open to the public. Kelaniya Buddhist Temple It is believed that the Buddha visited this temple, which is located just over 10 miles to the south of Negombo. Today it’s a major pilgrimage site for Buddhist devotees and a site of interest for many visitors. You’ll see a series of wall paintings in the interior that date from the mid-20th century. of Kelaniya in the month of November/December and January every year. It has a spectacular Duruthu Maha Perahera in the month of November/December and January and a good place to go for Vesak. Gangarama Buddist Temple This is one of the most frequently visited Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, second only in popularity to the Temple of the Tooth, located in Kandy. The temple dates from the early 14th century and it is thought that the Buddha preached at this spot approximately 2,000 years ago. Highlights include a well-known reclining Buddha image and statues of numerous Hindu deities. An important national festival is held here annually in January - Duruthu Perah Toward Negombo and beyond: Visit the town to wander around the Fort, the roads with crumbling houses, the Hindu Kovils at pooja time, the grand churches, clothes and gift shop, experience the fruit and veg market, wholesale fish market and the beach fish market. Dutch Fort Gate Originally, built in 1672, not far from the coastline, the fort was part of a colonial prison complex. Today the fort itself is largely in ruin, but the gate with its date of construction inscribed on it is still visible. In addition to the fort ruins, there’s a lovely Dutch church nearby and other buildings around Negombo dating from this period. A bicycle ride on the path along the canal is a good way to see many of these colonial constructions. Dutch Canal The canal was at one time an important link in the transportation route which supplied the Dutch colonial administration. It runs for more than 60 miles, with part of the route running through Negombo. Today it’s an attraction for tourists.