Everything great is happening in Valletta’s tourism industry these days. 2025 has been a year of growth and recognition for Valletta, the small capital city of Malta, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the forest quarter of 2025 itself, Malta received more than 693,000 visitors according to the Tour and Travel World. It was an 18.9% rise from the same period in 2024. Furthermore, in the same period, the tourist spending reached €508.5 million.
In addition, the World Travel $ Tourism Council has chosen Malta as the venue for the WTTC Global Summit, 2026. The 26th edition of the summit will take place in collaboration with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs & Tourism and the Government of Malta.
The prominent landmarks of Valletta, such as the Grand Harbour and St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and activities such as exploring Victoria’s Gate and trying some brilliant craft beer, and cultural richness, have helped Valletta enjoy such growth in numbers and global recognition.
I have been to Malta, and starting from exploring the fortified walls of Valletta to enjoying the serene charm of Valletta Grand Harbour Waterfront, the free things to do in Valletta were the highlights for me. On such a shoestring budget, I was able to enjoy the essence of a city, which even enjoyed the status of the European Capital of Culture 2018.
In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will, of course, talk about the free activities and other fun and interesting things to do in Valletta.
What Are The Things To Do In Valletta?
As I started exploring the city of Valletta, I noticed the signature “Pointed Cross” of the Knights protecting this ancient city from everything evil.
If this is something really spiritual, on the other hand, you will see history becoming alive with the post boxes, telephone booths, and British colonial architecture.
Nevertheless, these are the things to do in Valletta.
1. Visiting The St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Address: Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:15 PM (Monday to Saturday)
Entry Fee: Adults: €15, Seniors: €12, Students: €12, Children (Under 12): Free when accompanied by an adult, €5 Extra for a Belfray Tour, Audio Tour Included
The St. John’s Co-Cathedral is the most prominent example of the Baroque-style architecture of Valletta. The Knights of the St. John built this conventional church for the order in the late 16th century.
You will know about the life of St. John the Baptist from the paintings by Mattia Preti on the ceiling of this cathedral.
Furthermore, there are eight chapels, dedicated to various languages, tapestries, marble floors, and gilded carvings. However, the main focus for me was the painting called “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.”
This dramatic work, one of the few artworks signed by Caravaggio, is in the Oratory.
2. Exploring Fort St. Elmo And The National War Museum
Address: Mediterranean Street, Valletta, Malta
Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: Adults – €10.00, Senior Citizens (60+) and Youths (12-17 Years) – €7.50, Students – €7.50, Children (5-11 Years) – €5.00, Below 5 Years – Free
Fort St. Elmo stands as a witness to the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. It has military paraphernalia and many artefacts.
However, the major appeal of the fort is intangible, and it lies in the fact of how it became a refuge for the people of Malta during the attack of the Ottoman Empire under the leadership of Suleiman the Magnificent.
The Knights, only around 500 in numbers, defeated the 6000 strong army of the Ottoman Emperor.
Furthermore, the National War Museum inside the fort, spanning over seven sections, celebrates the 7000-year-old history of Malta. Some of the exhibits here date back to the Bronze Age (2,500 BC).
You can even request a guided tour of the museum.
Insider Tip:
2025 marked the 900th year of the Great Siege of Malta. A docu-drama called The Great Siege of Malta 1565 was released in 2025. This 45-minute docu-drama celebrates the bravery of the “Hospitalier Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem.”
3. Visiting The Grand Master’s Palace
Address: St George’s Square, Valletta
Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: €12 for Adults, €10 for Children Aged 12 to 17 Years and Seniors, Children (6-11): €8, Infants (1-5): Free
The Grand Master of the Order of St. John used to rule Valletta from the Grand Master’s Palace. The armory here is the main attraction, and it has the accessories and outfits of the Knights.
Furthermore, the symbol of power, with its history of 450 years, is once again in the news with its recent renovation work.
It was also the “seat of the first constitutional parliament of Malta in 1921,” and now it is the “Seat of the Office of the President of Malta.”
4. A Guided Tour Of Casa Rocca Piccola
Address: 74 Republic Street, Valletta, Malta
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM
Audio Tours: From 10 AM
Guided Tours: From 10 AM to 4 PM (On An Hourly Basis)
Do you know that the 9th Marquis de Piro still lives in this 16th-century palace? Join the audio tours or the guided tours to see the swanky furniture and unique staircases.
However, for me, the Bomb Shelters were the main attraction. These are not dark tourism spots. These are the living history of World War II.
When 15 air raids took place in 1942, the people of Valletta saved their lives by hiding in these chambers. These shelters were part of the quarry of the 400-year-old house, and they were made from a solid rock foundation.
5. Know The WWII Stories Of Malta At Lascaris War Rooms
Address: Lascaris Ditch, Valletta VLT 2000, Malta
Hours: 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee – Adults: €20, Seniors: €19, 5-15 Years Old: €7, Family: €35, Children below 5 Years: Free
I love history, and even if you don’t, you cannot avoid knowing about WW1 and WW2. These two wars changed the course of human civilization.
At Lascaris War Rooms, you don’t just see the exhibits. You live through the moments of war as you explore the tunnels and labyrinths used as protection from the Italian and German attacks during World War 2.
It’s like getting transported to the 1940s within a minute.
Insider Tip:
I found the War Rooms more fascinating than the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Did you know that these War Rooms were used as the headquarters for the Invasion of Sicily or Operation Husky?
6. Visiting The National Museum Of Archaeology
Address: Auberge de Provençe, Republic Street, Valletta, Malta
I was at a loss for words at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. It has everything you need to know about the prehistoric days of Malta.
Once I entered, the first room had exhibits showing how the earliest people settled here, even before the temple establishment period. It had “Red Skorba ornaments” and some “tools” they used in their everyday lives.
I also got to see exhibits from the Ghar Dalam phase (5200 BC), Tarxien phase (2500 BC), and Bronze Age.
Then, I reached the main hall of the museum. It had the Sleeping Lady and other astonishing sculptures and temple carvings.
Among the collectibles from the Temple Period, the Obsidian Core was the most impressive. It was a headless sculpture, in a seated posture.
Housed inside a Baroque building, this museum is now the main attraction of Auberge de Provençe, which was earlier the home of the Knights of the St. John.
Insider Tip:
If you are traveling from any other town in Malta, take a bus to the Valetta Bus Terminal. From there, it is a short distance on foot.
7. Visiting The Upper Barrakka Gardens
Address: 292 Triq Sant’Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Home to the Siege Bell War Memorial, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer amazing views of the harbor and the three neighboring cities.
This 16th-century garden was built in the 16th century, and the Knights of the Saint John once used it as a private garden.
Once you are done strolling the Castille Square, you will find the Upper Barrakka Gardens nearby.
Insider Tip:
It’s great to relax at the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens and have a sip of your favorite drink. However, at 12 PM and 4 PM, the officials of the Malta Heritage Society get dressed in military uniforms and fire the cannons at the Upper Barakka Gardens.
Now, I had a cup of hot coffee in my hand, and I was not ready for it. So, it fell out of my hand, and it was a mess.
Nevertheless, this tradition has been continued for more than 100 years, and once you attend it, you will know why it is worth it.
Also, you must use the Barakka Lift to travel between the upper and lower Barakka Gardens quickly.
8. Plan A Visit To The Lower Barrakka Gardens
Address: Lvant, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
I know people do not talk much about the Lower Barrakka Gardens. However, that’s a blessing in disguise. It is way less crowded than the Upper Barrakka Garden.
Now, despite having the name as “Gardens,” it is actually a small-scale garden with a few minutes taken to complete the stroll.
However, there is a fort and a waterfront with Greek-style arches overlooking them. You can relax here, have your moments, and make the most of the photo ops.
9. Enjoying The Waterfront
The Baroque houses, surrounding the waterfront of Valletta, were earlier used for storing the essentials of the Grand Master. Now, they are bars and restaurants.
I found the promenade the perfect place to relax and cherish a drink with my eyes set on the ships cruising. The place is more magical after sundown, but there is a trick!
You have to find a cafe or restaurant that is not crowded by tourists. Find yourself a quiet corner.
10. Watching A Performance At The Manoel Theatre
Address: Old Theatre Street, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
At Manoel Theatre, as a performer of elocution and audio theater for the longest time, I had goosebumps. I was standing at the oldest working theater in Europe.
The wrap-around gallery was the highlight of the building, and I attended an opera performance by none other than Joseph Calleja.
Also, if you want to explore the grand architecture of Manoel Theatre, you can do so every Tuesday. During the summer months, the tours are conducted between 10:30 AM and 12 PM, and during the winter months, these tours continue from 11 AM to 3 PM. Tickets are available at 20.00 €.
11. Trying Local Food
Many people call Maltese ftira a “type of pizza.” However, very few people know that it is a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, with a history dating back to the 16th century, when it was first prepared in the ovens of the Knights of St. John.
Furthermore, it is a chosen food because of its versatile fillings and its role as an identity of Valletta and, by extension, of Malta. I also loved the coffee here. It was my best companion while taking a stroll across the roads.
Furthermore, if you are in Valletta, don’t miss the Lampuki Pie or the signature fish pie.
How To Reach And Move Around Valletta?
Valletta is well-connected to the world through the Malta International Airport. It is around 9 km away from Valletta, and the short drive took me close to 20 minutes. I took the bus to the City Centre.
You can also book a shuttle in advance or take a taxi.
The city has a well-connected bus route, and it is a small city that you can cover on foot. However, the transport options are island-specific. You can take a Talinja Card or Flex Card for exploring Valletta and Malta.
Also, you can take a ferry service to the Grand Harbour of Valletta to and from Gozo and the Three Cities. You will even get a ferry service from Sliema to St. Paul’s in Valletta.
Insider Tip:
I picked the “Gozo Standard Add-On” card for my day trip. I didn’t have the time for so many trips. But you can use this add-on to enjoy unlimited tours to Gozo Island.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Valletta?
March to May and September to early November are the best seasons to visit Valletta. Valletta has so many historic landmarks and outdoor spaces. The temperature in the early 20s in these months offers you the ideal chance to explore Valletta.
Also, the crowd is quite manageable in these months.
Valletta, At A Glance: Why Does Valletta Offer Such A Rich Experience?
The best thing about Valletta is how compact it is! By compact, I mean it has a big heart, accommodating the best museums, well-preserved Baroque architecture, the Grand Harbour, stone walls, and stories.
From the stories of a 16th-century ghost to being the backdrop of many spy thrillers, such as “The Secrets of Malta” by Cecily Blench, and historical novels such as “The Hidden Palace” by Dinah Jefferies, have added stories to each key attraction of the city.
Also, the stories of the city’s sustenance during World War II and the Great Siege by the Ottoman Turks in 1565 tell us about human resilience.
Location-wise, this Fortress City, with a soft honey hue, stands on the ocean. It is also the dream of a photographer with the Baroque architecture reaching the sky.
Despite being only 1 kilometer long and 600 meters wide, the city of Valletta is very compact, housing many museums, cobblestones, and architecture, and it became the “European Cultural Capital in 2018.
Valletta is very close to the famous Three Cities. These cities are Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa. The Grand Harbour separates these cities from Valletta.
Valletta was built by the Knights of St. John in 1565 after the Great Siege of Malta. It was one of the best fortified cities in Europe and was built in a very short span.
The city got its name from Jean Parisot de La Valette, who was the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John.
Where To Stay In Valletta?
When in Valletta, you must choose a hotel with an amazing rooftop view. The Embassy Valletta Hotel and Palazzo Ignazio are some of the best options to stay in.
The best areas for finding a hotel are the Valletta City Centre, Floriana, The Three Cities, etc.
The hotel charges will be around 300-500 Euros.
Is Valletta Really Worth It? An Honest Confession About The City
Yes, Valletta is a European Capital City with so many historic, religious, and cultural elements. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also has many stories, like the Great Siege of Malta or the attacks of World WW2.
However, the remnants of the British Colonial Rule, like the telephone booths and post boxes, were sore to my eyes and they are a mismatch with the beautiful Baroque architecture and century-old buildings.
Also, it is hard to find a quiet place in Valletta. So, that can be a problem for a solo traveler. Still, the great food and historic thrill of the city make it really worth it!
Even if you are in the city for one day, you can enjoy a stroll around the City Square and at least explore the St. John’s Co-Cathedral to enjoy a slice of Maltese life.
Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.
Before we start name-dropping the fun destinations all around the world, we should define the term ‘all-inclusive holidays.’ For anyone who doesn’t know, the purchase of a holiday package that includes a variety of services that cover important traveling needs, such as accommodation and meals, to luxury experiences, like access to spa centers, guided tours, and special events, is an all-inclusive holiday.
People usually prefer such packages because they not only get to make both necessary and fun travel arrangements, killing two birds with one stone but also save money. Does that sound like something that you would be interested in? If yes, we know just the right destinations for all-inclusive holidays!
Destination 1: Maldives
The Maldives is one of the top summer destinations that travelers from all around the world dream of visiting. This is a totally logical dream since a picture of the turquoise beaches, the luxury villas, and the delicious foods are enough to make you fall in love with the whole country.
Besides the beach resorts, do you know what are the must-see attractions in the Maldives? If you are unsure, an all-inclusive holiday will provide you with opportunities to go dolphin-watching, tour Male, the capital of the Maldives, or try water sports, such as scuba diving and parasailing.
First on our list is the Male City which is the center of experiencing the Maldives culture. You can attend the Grand Friday Mosque, the Tsunami Museum, or spend some time at the Artificial Beach here. Then, we have the Addu Atoll, full of mesmerizing islands. You get to discover the famous Gan Island here, along with experiencing a heavenly sea dive.
If you want to indulge in more exciting activities underwater, such as scuba diving or snorkeling, then Maafushi Island should be your next top destination. Here, you can go to Furafathi and enjoy the thriving marine life. Next is the night fishing and Boduberu Show, which deserves your equal attention.
Destination 2: The French Alps
France is mainly famous for Paris and its countryside. Well, its mountain scenery is equally stunning. The French Alps attract a large number of ski lovers and thrill-seekers every winter. There are many ski areas that stand out for their challenging slopes and dramatic landscapes.
You can find excellent deals in order to visit breathtaking places such as Val Thorens, Tignes, La Plagne, and other popular areas on Erna Low. Many travelers prefer booking all-inclusive offers. Otherwise, ski holidays can be a bit overwhelming since there are a lot of things that they need to arrange, such as finding the right ski resort for their level, ski passes, hiring ski gear, and so on.
You can commence your tour by visiting the city of Chambery, as it attracts a significant amount of French charm. The entire place is resemblance of a fairy tale which is no less than a paradise for tourists.
If you are a nature lover who loves to taste greenery, then the villages in the French Alps deserve one of your visits. The conventional villages here are tucked away from the crowded tourist attracts, which ultimately provides you peace and tranquility after a day of travel.
Destination 3: Bali
We will go back to a sun-kissed destination; Bali, or the Island of the Gods as it is also called, is an island in Indonesia. Although you could easily spend your days having fun on its beautiful beaches, there are myriads of natural and tourist attractions scattered all around the island that you should see.
Being given a guided tour of Ulun Danu Temple, spending a few days at the Yoga Barn, and diving in Amed are excellent reasons to book all-inclusive holidays in Bali. The rich arts scene of the land is a top spot for relaxation as well as other recreations.
Next, we have the Uluwatu Temple, which is a famous place of worship in the country. It is located right over the plunging sea cliff at popular surf spots in Bali. Are you looking for a romantic destination? Then, don’t forget to visit Mount Batur, which is an ultimate honeymoon destination.
Another interesting place to discover in Bali is the Monkey Forest, also popular as the “Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.” It is also one of the most exciting places you can visit in the country if you are a wildlife lover. Thousands of monkeys clamber through the trees.
Destination 4: Greece
Greece is a fantastic destination all year round. A cruise around the Aegean or the Ionian islands in the summer and a road trip from Athens to Thessaloniki, the two biggest cities in the country, in winter are just two fun ways to get to know Greece. Tickets to archaeological sites and museums are one thing that must not be missing from your Greek holidays.
How can we resist mentioning Santorini when talking about Greece? It is considered as the Aegean diamond. Lots and lots of travelers are attracted to this island’s beauty each year. You should not miss taking a dip in the picturesque turquoise water.
Next, we have Chios on our list, which might be a little off-track but extremely underrated. This hidden gem consists of medieval-themed villages, unique options for accommodation, and of course, stunning beaches. Don’t forget to check out the Oz Cocktail bar located in Chios town, as it has got some of the exciting drinks all across the globe.
Conclusion
The list above has got some of the most enthralling holiday destinations that will surely give you peace of mind. Although some of them appear expensive, they are worth spending every penny. Every year, a trip to luscious destinations rejuvenates us and makes us prepared for upcoming challenges.
Keeping this in mind, this comprehensive guide is a solution for those who are a traveler at heart. Save this article for the next time you are perplexed about which destination you should choose for your vacation. Thank you for taking out your time and reading it.
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If you are looking for the best places to visit this holiday, look at Nepal.
It is one of the most popular countries in the world today. There are a lot of exciting things that you can see in this country.
It offers outstanding scenery that will give you an incredible experience in Nepal. Nepal is an excellent place for all tourists who love nature and wildlife experiences.
Consider spending about 7 - 21 days exploring all the great things Nepal offers.
Checkout 5 Best Things To Do In Nepal
Here are some exciting things you can do when visiting this beautiful country.
1. Trekking in Nepal
Nepal offers some of the best trekking routes in the world. This place is suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers who are coming from many different countries in the world.
If you only have a short visit time in Nepal, try the 4-day Poonhill trek, which offers beautiful scenery of Nepal.
You can also try the Everest Base Camp Trek and also Manaslu trek. Both spots are the best adventure treks in Nepal. They offer pristine nature and an incredible trekking experience for all tourists.
2. Peak Climbing
Some people are interested in climbing some famous mountains in Nepal. You can try Mera Peak or Island Peak to get the best climbing experience with minimum experience.
Both peaks can reach up to 6,000 meters. They are suitable for people with minimum or even no mountaineering experience.
You will enjoy one of the most challenging adventures in your lifetime. Yala peak is another interesting peak that you can visit when you are in Nepal.
It offers an excellent view of Shishapangma mountain, which is about 8,000 meters. It is the highest mountain in Tibet.
3. Cultural Tours
There are a lot of interesting cultural tours that are available in Nepal. You can try some of these tours to explore the beauty of the ancient traditions in Nepal.
Most of these tours will bring you to some famous cities in this country, such as Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Pokhara, Lumbini, and Chitwan.
They offer exciting stories that will be very interesting for most tourists coming to Nepal.
You can find a lot of beautiful temples, shrines, archaeological interests, and a lot of fascinating cultural heritages of Nepal.
4. White Water Rafting
You can come to Nepal now for the best whitewater rafting experience. You can take the Four Day Kayaking Clinique along the Seti River.
It is an excellent way to explore spectacular views of the natural beauty and riverside scenery here.
This tour will start at Phewa Lake, which is located in Pokhara.
It is suitable for all beginners who want to learn how to do kayaking correctly before trying more difficult and dominant Himalayan rivers around this country.
5. Wildlife Tours
This is another exciting thing that you can do when you are in Nepal. You can visit Chitwan National Park to explore some exciting wildlife tours here.
There are more than 500 beautiful migratory birds and other fascinating animals, such s one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, etc.
This park covers about 332 square miles. It is the best place to see some exciting animals, such as crocodiles, rhinos, elephants, tigers, bears, etc., while in Nepal.
You can take about a 3 - 4 day trip to explore all the exciting things here.
Almost a year ago, on 26th March 2025, Xinhua shared a photo of the fishing trawlers in Negombo. Those further gave us an idea about the lives of the fishermen in Negombo.
On a personal level, that photo took me back to my days in Negombo.
Now, many often miss the cultural insights Negombo offers. I mean, if you consider the Tamil culture in Jaffna, or the cultural things to do in Kandy, you also need to experience what Negombo has to offer.
Otherwise, you will not understand how it has kept the soul of a fishermen’s port city alive beyond the glitz and glamor of the prominent international hotels and shops.
Also, Negombo is very close to the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport. The distance is less than 9 km, and the travel time is around 20 minutes.
So, as expected, it has all the amenities for tourists. However, as always, luxurious facilities have never been the draw for me while visiting a place.
I am the happiest exploring the Ritigala Forest Monastery or climbing the Sigiriya Rock and finding the history at every corner.
So, my reason for a visit to Negombo was not what people usually think of. And in today’s blog, I will introduce Negombo to you through my lens.
How Did I Reach Negombo From Colombo?
I took a tuk-tuk to reach the Colombo Fort railway station from my hostel. Then, I got a train ticket for 80 LKR.
The train was not overly crowded, and traveling solo, and as a believer in the LowDownUnder travel philosophy, I quite enjoyed the train ride.
However, if you want to avoid the hassle, you can also take a bus from Colombo to Negombo.
Where Are The Things To Do In Negombo?
First, I want to highlight that traveling to Negombo has now become easier if you are traveling from India.
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has started a package called “SHRI RAMAYANA YATRA EX MUMBAI.”
From 21st March 2026 to 27th March 2026, it will be a 6-Night and 7-day package.
The package tour conducted in association with the Sri Lankan Airlines will cover destinations such as Colombo, Dambulla, Trincomalee, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.
This tourism package starts from Rs. 71,800/ for adults and Rs. 30,100/ for children.
Now, with traveling becoming easier, you can plan the things to do in Negombo better.
1. Exploring The Negombo Fish Market
I was up at 5 AM as I had to visit the local fish market.
I got into a minivan with my guide, and as we entered the market, the sight of bright silver fish and their smell occupied my senses.
My guide took me through the stalls of tuna, machete, and shark. Then, he drew my attention to the ships filled with fish reaching the market and the heavy bargaining game.
A fish market may not be the most attractive place to visit when you are in Negombo.
However, if you want a true cultural experience and understand the livelihood of the local people, it is the go-to place.
From the fish market, my guide took me to a beach used primarily for drying fish. The intense smell is not for everyone, but many times, I had a similar experience back home.
2. Visiting The Dutch Fort At Negombo
The Dutch Fort was close to the “fish drying beach.” Now, the Dutch Fort is used as a prison.
The fort is constructed with coral stone and granite.
And around the fort, I found many wildflowers blooming.
This simple scene was a moment of learning for me. I once again understood how the universe functions.
It does not matter whether it’s a prison or a temple. A flower can bloom anywhere, and it will always be beautiful.
However, I wanted to have a better view of the Dutch Fort. I climbed up the old clock tower and got a better perspective and better shots of the fort.
3. Visiting The Angurukaramulla Temple
After a trek to the Sigiriya Rock and the Pidurangala Rock, I visited the Angurukaramulla Temple. Like the Sigiriya Rock, for this Buddhist Temple, you also need to make an entry through the mouth of a lion.
The lion rests below the 6-meter-tall Buddha statue.
The temple has magnificent statues and beautiful murals. Also, it has a rich library with scriptures and murals.
So, it is a great place to visit in Negombo if someone is studying the Buddhist religion and literature.
However, walk carefully as you may come across snakes (rat snakes).
4. Birdwatching On The Dutch Canals
I ended my morning at the Dutch Canal. It was relaxing and enriching at the same time to look over the lagoons.
I decided to make more of the moment and got into a boat.
It was surprising to say the least. Also, I did not expect to meet so much wildlife immediately after leaving the dry land.
I saw a huge monitor lizard resting on the shoreline, and then kingfishers, cormorants, and herons in flocks kept accompanying me throughout the journey.
However, it was not just the wildlife. I saw a reflection of my home and country during the boat ride.
People were attending to livestock, children were bicycling, and some were even playing cricket.
Again, there were some abandoned hotels and buildings, standing as a witness to the civil unrest and the stories of human resilience in Sri Lanka.
5. Exploring The City On Foot
Negombo is very walkable, and it reminded me of my days in Jaffna. I used to randomly pick a direction along the main coastal road and just walk.
You may call wandering aimlessly in a lesser-known place unsafe. However, I think that you have not seen a city until you have walked through it.
Also, after visiting Jaffna and other places of historical and cultural significance, Sri Lanka felt like home to me.
They spoke a different language. However, they were warm and welcoming, just like anyone I would randomly come across in India.
Also, after years of experience, I can say that walking is the only way to find those hidden gems, the best bakery around the corner, or the eatery that has been around for around 100 years.
This was more evident during my Jaffna food tour.
Moreover, while walking across the streets of Negombo, I got to interact with the local fish sellers and food vendors. In addition, I found a big mosque near the backstreet.
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