Lagoon Safari, Negombo

The Negombo Lagoon is one of the largest coastal lagoons in Sri Lanka and a vital hub of the national fishing industry. It is also a scenic beauty spot lined with mangrove forests and home to an array of bird species and marine life.

During the week, the lagoon is a buzz with the comings and goings of shipping boats, ranging from small lagoon canoes catching crabs and prawns to large trawlers heading out into the Indian Ocean in search of bigger hauls. The industry takes a break at weekends, and the lagoon is calm and serene, making it a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters and ideal for spotting the array of aquatic birds inhabiting the surrounding forests.

From your small boat, you'll get a prime view of the natural life on the lagoon and the life of local fishermen who still use traditional, small-scale fishing methods. As the boats go about their business, keep an eye out for birds like Egrets, Purple Herons, Cormorants, and Kites, to name a few.