Once the fortified, colonial capital city, Galle, perched on Sri Lanka’s southwestern tip, is a rich, woven tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s your guide to navigating this captivating island gem.
A Walk Through Time
Galle’s story stretches back centuries. Founded as a natural harbour, it was subsequently fortified by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, leaving behind a unique architectural legacy. The UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a sprawling 17th-century Dutch sea fortress, is the heart of the city.
Walking Through the Streets of Galle Fort
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Galle, step inside the historic Galle Fort and wander through its cobbled streets lined with colonial-era architecture. Climb the iconic Galle Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the city and picturesque coastline. Delve into maritime history at the Galle Maritime Museum, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich seafaring past.
Natural Surroundings
Relax on the sands of Koggala Beach as you watch the famed stilt fisherman patiently perched above the gentle morning waves. Head to Thalpe Beach for a more secluded escape with stunning sunsets, and refreshing rock pools to dip your feet into. Don’t forget to visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery and witness the awe-inspiring journey of these magnificent creatures. To truly embrace the serenity of Galle’s natural wonders, escape the congestion of the city centre and stay in the midst of a sprawling tea plantation at hotels liike Kahanda Kanda.
Cuisine
Indulge in Sri Lankan cuisine, a vibrant blend of flavours influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and Malay traditions. Savour fresh seafood dishes, fragrant curries, and deep-fried street food bites, or purchase a freshly cut king coconut for a refreshing drink to cool off after exploring. As an immensely popular tourist destination, several international joints are available throughout the city; grab a bowl of Hawaiian Poke made with the freshest catch of the day, or a bite of an English tart from a bakery within the fort’s walls.
AntanO, Lamprais (Sri Lankan cuisine), CC BY-SA 4.0
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Getting There
Galle is easily accessible by train, bus, or car from Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. With the newly built Expressway, highway buses take as little as 90 minutes to make the journey from Makumbura station, located in Colombo’s suburbs and equipped with modern amenities and updated schedules available online. For a more scenic route, consider the coastal train or normal coastal buses to Galle, although crowds and slower travel may be an issue.
When to Visit
Sri Lanka experiences two monsoons. The dry season, from December to April, offers sunny skies and calm seas, perfect for exploring the beaches and historic sites. The shoulder months (May and November) can be pleasant as well.