Rajapaksa Park, a tranquil oasis in the centre of Negombo

Rajapaksa Park can be found in Rukmani Devi Mawatha, a residential area near the centre of Negombo town.

The land was donated by the family of Rukmani Devi, the ‘nightingale of Sri Lanka’, after her tragic early death in 1978, when it became known as Rukmani Devi Park.

In 2014, the government paid for its renovation, and it was renamed Rajapaksa Park. The municipal council are now responsible for its maintenance.

Children

Today it’s a pleasant place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town, and the only public space other than the beach to walk and relax.

There are two play areas with equipment for younger children, making it a popular place for families.

In one corner is the children’s library, and another is home to the Rukmani Devi Centre for Performing Arts.

Informal planting of trees and shrubs has created a cool green oasis, while a palm-tree-lined path leads through to the centrepiece of the park.

Lovely setting

Here, a lily pond with a small Japanese-style gazebo in the centre can be reached by a bridge on either side.

A lovely setting which can be hired for a wedding shoot.

Schoolchildren love to come here after their lessons to hang out with their classmates.

It is also quiet place for young couples to spend time together when the park is not busy.

During holidays whole families congregate to chatter and play with their children.

A small café provides a hot and cold drinks and a selection of light snacks

Friendly security staff patrol the park during its open hours, creating a safe environment for all, while gardeners work hard to keep the area clean and tidy.

Entrance fee

The park opens at 8am and is open to visitors until the ticket counter closes at 6pm, allowing an hour until the park closes at 7pm, when visitors are asked to leave.

Some parking spaces are available, but in busy times not enough.

There is an entrance fee of Rs200 for foreigners and Rs50 for locals.