The West - Sri Lanka - page 175

Dutch Fort RUINS
( GOOGLE MAP )
Close to the seafront near the lagoon are the ruins of the old Dutch fort, which has a fine
gateway inscribed with the date 1678. Also here is a green, called the Esplanade , where
cricket matches are a big attraction. As the fort grounds are now occupied by the town's
prison, the only way you'll get a peek inside is by stealing something. You'd need to be
very interested in old Dutch forts to go to such lengths, however.
Several old Dutch buildings are still in use, including the Lagoon Resthouse (
GOOGLE MAP ;Custom House Rd) .
Main Fish Market MARKET
( GOOGLE MAP )
Each day, fishermen take their oruvas (outrigger canoes) and go out in search of the fish
for which Negombo is well known. They're a fine sight as they sweep home into the la-
goon after a fishing trip. Fish auctions on the beach and sales at the fish market near the
fort are a slippery and very smelly sight, but one that's well worth forgoing some swim-
ming pool time for.