The Dutch Canal
Located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, a beautiful tropical island in the Indian Ocean is Negombo, a fishing village just seven kilometers away from the Bandaranaike International Airport. Lying on the shores of the Negombo lagoon the town had once been a busy sea port.

Negombo had initially been the home of Moorish traders who used the seaport to transport Cinnamon which grew in abundance along the western coastal stretch. The Portuguese who identified the potential of Cinnamon with their powering presence over south Asia expelled the Moors and made Sri Lanka their home and Negombo became one of their central locations. The Dutch who invaded next defeated the Portuguese and claimed ownership of the coastal areas of Sri Lanka a few years after. During this change of ownership of land Negombo was right at the centre of attention, thus having many historically important structures belonging to varying architectural designs and techniques of different nationals. The Dutch Canal is one of the architectural brilliancies of the Dutch who are famed for their excellent canal systems.

With a length of hundred kilometres the Dutch canal runs through the city of Negombo starting from Colombo. It had been used in the past to transport goods, especially Cinnamon from the remote areas of inner Sri Lanka to Negombo easily and cost effectively. Goods that were brought into the country especially for the Dutch residing in Sri Lanka were also transported through this canal.

Even today the canal is being used though not as extensively as in the past. Visitors who come for sightseeing in Negombo usually go for a boat ride in the canal or go for a bicycle ride on the stretch running parallel to the canal enjoying the breeze and the refreshing views.

The Dutch Canal along with other tourist attractions in Negombo and its outskirts can be enjoyed while staying at Jetwing Seashells, a beautiful beach resort by the side of the beach. Reputed for delighting the guests with delectable seafood dishes the hotel also provides unmatched facilities and service while enjoying easy access to many city attractions.