Galle

Why go to Galle

Galle Fort is a walled town built by the Portuguese and then the Dutch, sitting on a headland on the south coast. Inside the walls are quiet streets of old houses, churches, mosques, cafés, small boutiques and a lighthouse. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most atmospheric places in Sri Lanka.

Galle is also the natural gateway to the south coast beaches, so it fits easily into almost any itinerary.

How many days

One night inside the fort is ideal. Use a second night if you want time for shopping, a cooking class or day trips to the beaches and turtle hatcheries nearby. Many people stay at a beach like Unawatuna and visit Galle for an afternoon and evening.

Best time to visit

The south coast is at its best from December to April, when the sea is calmer and skies are clear. From May to October the southwest monsoon brings rain, rougher seas and fewer people. Galle Fort itself is still enjoyable in the rainy season since it is not about the beach.

Getting there

• From Colombo or the airport: about 2.5 to 3 hours by car on the Southern Expressway.
• By train from Colombo Fort: the coastal line runs right along the sea and is a beautiful ride. About 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on the train. TODO: verify timetable.
• From Mirissa or Unawatuna: 15 to 60 minutes by tuk tuk or car.

Top things to do

1. Walk the ramparts around the fort, ideally at sunset from the Flag Rock bastion.
2. Galle lighthouse and the old Dutch Reformed Church.
3. Wander the lanes of the fort: Pedlar Street, Church Street and Leyn Baan Street.
4. Galle Fort Maritime Museum and the National Museum. TODO: verify opening hours and fees.
5. Japanese Peace Pagoda on Rumassala hill, on the way to Jungle Beach.
6. Jungle Beach and Unawatuna for swimming.
7. Handunugoda tea estate near Ahangama, known for white tea. TODO: verify visiting hours.

Where to stay

• Inside the fort: boutique hotels and guesthouses in old houses. Atmospheric, walkable, a bit pricier.
• Unawatuna: beach base 10 minutes away, more choice and lower prices.
• Between Galle and Ahangama: villas and surf stays along the coast.

Local food to try

Look for fresh seafood curries, fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry, a southern speciality), crab curry, and a short eats stop for patties and fish buns. Fort cafés also do excellent coffee and cakes.

Mistakes to avoid

• Visiting only at midday on a day trip. Come for late afternoon and stay for sunset.
• Swimming at the fort walls. Currents are strong. Use proper beaches.
• Buying “antique” gems or coins from street sellers. If you want gems, use a certified dealer.
• Skipping Galle in rainy season. The fort is still great, just bring an umbrella.