Best Attractions In Galle: Ultimate list for your vacation
Last updated on April 19th, 2024 at 06:50 pm
Galle, located on the southwestern shoreline of this tropical paradise, is a captivating fusion of history, culture, and natural beauty.
With its cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, mesmerizing fort and bustling atmosphere, Galle offers an enchanting journey into the past.
Galle’s crown jewel is its historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site testament to its Dutch and Portuguese colonial heritage. As you stroll through its labyrinthine lanes, you’ll discover art galleries, boutique shops, and quaint cafes that add a modern touch to this historical tapestry.
But Galle isn’t just about the past. The town boasts so many activities that will surely keep you busy and relaxing on your holiday.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Galle.
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Luxury
Galle Fort Hotel
Mid range
Arches Fort Hotel
Budget
Ariyadasa Guest House
Best hotels in Galle
Galle Fort Hotel
Galle Fort Hotel is your gateway to an enchanting escape in the heart of Sri Lanka’s historic Galle Fort.
This exquisite boutique hotel exudes timeless charm, blending colonial-era charm with modern comforts.
From its rich heritage and antique furnishings to the warm hospitality of its staff, every moment is an invitation to indulge in luxury.
Whether dining on exquisite cuisine, unwinding by the pool, or exploring the fort’s cobblestone streets, this hotel ensures an unforgettable experience. For a truly immersive and captivating stay along the scenic Sri Lankan coast.
Booking the Galle Fort Hotel is your ticket to an extraordinary journey in a Galle Fort visit.
Arches Fort Hotel Galle
Experience the perfection of luxury and history at Arches Fort Hotel Galle, the best mid-range hotel in Galle Fort.
Located within the ancient walls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, this highly-rated gem offers an unparalleled blend of affordability and luxury.
Immerse yourself in the charm of cobblestone streets and historical landmarks while enjoying modern comforts. With its central location, you’re just steps away from the vibrant local culture.
Discover the essence of Galle Fort from Arches Fort Hotel, where affordability meets excellence, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable Galle adventure.
Ariyadasa Guest House
Located within the enchanting streets of Galle, Ariyadasa Guest House stands as the best-budget hotel in the heart of this historical town.
The place is highly rated for its location and affordability, and this guest house is ideally situated within a 10-minute walking distance from the historic Galle Fort.
What sets it apart is the inclusion of a delicious breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day.
With a private entrance and an entire apartment at your disposal, you’ll experience unmatched privacy and comfort.
If you seek a remarkable stay without breaking the bank, Ariyadasa Guest House is your ultimate choice for a memorable Galle adventure.
Things to do in Galle
Galle Fort
Galle Fort in Sri Lanka is a captivating destination that effortlessly blends history, culture, and modern charm. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasure trove of experiences.
As you wander through its cobbled streets, the iconic Galle Lighthouse stands tall, offering a stunning coastal backdrop. The fort is also home to the Maritime Museum, where you can delve into the rich maritime history of the region.
But it’s not all about history and artifacts. Galle Fort offers more than that. You can immerse yourself in the local culture by watching a cricket match at the nearby stadium, where the atmosphere is electric.
For shoppers, the boutique shops within the fort are a delight. From handmade crafts to trendy clothing, you’ll find unique souvenirs to take home.
In Galle Fort, there are “so many things to do,” catering to all interests, making it a must-visit spot that beautifully weaves the past and present into a rich tapestry of experience.
Watch a cricket match at Galle International Stadium
Watching a cricket match at the Galle International Stadium is a unique and unforgettable experience.
The stadium is located right next to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, and its picturesque setting makes it one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world.
The atmosphere at the Galle Stadium is electric, especially for international matches.
Sri Lankan cricket fans are passionate and knowledgeable, and they love to cheer on their team. The stadium is also known for its vibrant and colourful crowds.
One of the best things about watching cricket at the Galle Stadium is the proximity to the action. The stadium is relatively small, so even from the upper tiers, you can get a great view of the pitch. This makes for a genuinely immersive cricket experience, as you can feel right in the middle of the game.
Visit The Turtle Hatchery Mahamodara
The Turtle Rescue Sanctuary in Unawatuna is a heartwarming and educational place worth visiting.
This sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and protection of sea turtles, which are an endangered species.
Here, you can witness these gentle creatures up close and learn about their conservation efforts.
The sanctuary often releases baby turtles into the ocean. If you happen in that time, never miss this opportunity; this is a truly magical experience. Plus, you can feed and interact with some of the resident adult turtles.
The passionate volunteers and staff at the sanctuary work tirelessly to rehabilitate injured turtles.
It’s not just a sanctuary but also an opportunity to understand the importance of preserving these magnificent animals and their natural habitat.
Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve: A Day of Adventure
Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve, located about 80 km from Galle in Sri Lanka, is a nature lover’s paradise and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the few untouched rainforests in the world, boasting incredible biodiversity. The reserve covers a small area but is a treasure trove of endemic species.
A typical day trip from Galle starts with a scenic two-hour drive through Sri Lanka’s beautiful countryside. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide leads you on a trek through this lush forest.
Sinharaja is home to various unique plant and animal species, including over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemics.
The reserve, designated as a World Biosphere Reserve in 1978 and a World Heritage Site in 1988, is a vital habitat for various mammals, birds, and insects. While animal sightings can be challenging due to dense vegetation, birdwatching and exploring crystal-clear streams are some activities to enjoy.
The best times to explore Sinharaja are from January to May and August to September, avoiding the monsoon season from November to December when the terrain becomes muddy and challenging for hiking. So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just seeking a remarkable day trip from Galle, Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve promises a truly unforgettable experience.
Galle fish market
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Sri Lankan experience, visit the fish market in Galle.
Located near Galle Fort by the beach, the market is a hive of activity as fishermen unload their catches of the day. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of fresh seafood, including crab, sea crab, lobster, prawns, sprats, seer fish, and yellowfin tuna.
The displays are aesthetically pleasing, with the fish arranged in colourful piles on ice. It’s a fascinating place to observe how locals purchase fish for their daily meals. You’ll see people haggling with the fishermen and women carefully selecting the freshest fish for their families
Visit early in the morning when it is busy, and you can see a lot of variety of fish.
Galle fruit Market
The Galle Fruit Market is a bustling and vibrant place, full of colour and flavour. It is located in the heart of the city and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
This market has a rich history dating back 300 years; originally known as the Dutch Market, it still functions in an old columned roof building.
The market is overflowing with various fresh fruits, from tropical favourites like mangoes and pineapple to more unique Sri lankan options like rambutan and mangosteen. The fruit is beautifully displayed, and the vendors are happy to offer samples and help you choose the perfect fruit.
In addition to fresh fruit, the market sells various processed fruit products, such as dried fruit, fruit juices, and fruit jams. You can also find other food items at the market, including vegetables, spices, and snacks.
Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum
The Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum is a charming treasure trove of Sri Lankan culture and heritage. Nestled in the quaint town of Koggala, it’s a place that takes you on a fascinating journey through time.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a diverse collection of artefacts and exhibits showcasing the everyday life of Sri Lankans. From traditional tools and farming equipment to artefacts reflecting the island’s rich folklore, you’ll gain insights into the lives and customs of the people.
The museum also honours Martin Wickramasinghe, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated authors, and you can explore his personal belongings and manuscripts. The serene surroundings of Koggala add a charm to the museum.
Visiting this museum is like flipping through the pages of Sri Lanka’s history and literature, making it a must-visit for those eager to delve into the island’s rich cultural tapestry.
Koggala boat safari
The Koggala Boat Safari is a captivating adventure that allows you to explore the serene and picturesque Koggala Lake in the southern region of Sri Lanka. This scenic boat trip offers a unique perspective of the area’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Gliding through the tranquil waters, you’ll be surrounded by lush mangroves, dense forests, and abundant bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning sights of kingfishers, herons, and playful monkeys along the lake’s shores.
One of the highlights of this safari is the visit to Cinnamon Island, where you can learn about the traditional cinnamon cultivation methods and spice production. The tour also includes a visit to a small yet enchanting islet filled with vibrant birdlife and the soothing sounds of nature.
The Koggala Boat Safari offers a peaceful escape into the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders, making it an ideal way to connect with the country’s rich ecological diversity.
Take a selfie with a stilt fisherman
When you visit Koggala Beach in Sri Lanka, you’ll be treated to a sight that’s as iconic as captivating: the stilt fishermen.
These skilled fishers have perfected a centuries-old tradition of perching atop wooden stilts planted in the shallow waters, patiently waiting for their catch.
As you watch them balanced on their precarious perches, you’ll be struck not only by their impressive fishing skills but also by the sheer resilience and dedication it takes to maintain this way of life. Stilt fishing is an art passed down through generations, and it’s a defining feature of Sri Lanka’s coastal culture.
For the best viewing experience, aim to be there during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the soft light enhances the picturesque scene.
You can even talk with these fishermen to gain insights into their unique way of life. It’s a truly memorable and photogenic experience that offers a glimpse into the soul of Sri Lanka’s coastal communities.
Take an amazing Instagram shot at Dalawella Beach Swing
Dalawella Beach is a small and secluded beach with white sand, clear turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees. This place is perfect for people who want to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
One of the unique features of Dalawella Beach is its iconic palm rope swing, which is suspended from a palm tree and hangs right over the water. This spot is perfect for taking stunning photos or just sitting back and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Another famous attraction in Dalawella is Frog Rock, which can be reached by taking a 10-minute coastal walk from the palm rope swing.
Take the Plunge in Thalpe Beach’s magnificent Rock Pools
Thalpe Beach, just a quick 5-minute tuk-tuk ride from Galle, has a unique secret that’ll make your visit unforgettable.
Imagine rectangular rock pools perfectly carved into the ancient coral reef right at the water’s edge, and you can dip in the natural ocean waters.
It’s so flawless that it’s hard to believe it’s unnatural. As the story goes, these pools were hand-carved by local villagers around 50 years ago. Back then, they used them to soak coconut husks, separating the coconut fibres.
Today, Thalpe Beach is a magnet for tourists, particularly the adventurous ones and savvy locals.
You’ll be amazed by the dozens of small rock pools, not to mention a massive natural swimming pool area. When the waves roll in, these pools get filled up and then magically drain as the water rushes back to the sea.
One thing you have to look out for when taking the dip is the occasional big wave might catch you off guard, so keep an eye on the swell while you explore this unique coastal wonder.
Mahamodara Viewpoint
Mahamodara Viewpoint is located in the captivating town of Mahamodara, just 3 kilometres away from Galle.
This viewpoint offers a unique vantage point to admire the city’s beauty and the serene Indian Ocean.
The view of Galle Fort against the blue sea is truly breathtaking. The Mahamodara Viewpoint is an ideal place for a stroll, photo sessions, or just relaxing while watching the world go by.
It’s common to find local families and tourists here, enjoying the cool ocean breeze and the spectacular sunsets.
If you are looking for a tranquil moment of reflection and a deeper connection with Galle’s coastal allure, then the Mahamodara Viewpoint is a must-visit spot that will provide you with an unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Galle
You have several options depending on your starting point. Here’s a guide on how to get to this beautiful coastal town in southern Sri Lanka.
By Air
From Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo):
The most common entry point for international travellers You can reach Galle by a domestic flight.
The domestic flight will take to the Koggala Airport, the nearest airport to Galle, which is 15 kilometres; from there, take a Tuk-tuk to reach Galle.
The one-way trip from Colombo to Koggla will cost 200 USD per person.
By train
The train is one of the most popular ways to get to Galle from Colombo.
It is also a very scenic journey, and most travellers choose this method. Trains depart from Colombo Fort station every few hours, and the journey takes around 2.5-3.5 hours. You can book tickets online in advance or purchase them at the station.
Avoid travelling during peak hours as locals commute to and from Galle and Colombo for work and school.
The best times to travel are between 9 AM-12 PM and 3 PM-5 PM.
By Bus
There are regular bus services available from Colombo to Galle, which offer two distinct routes for travellers.
The first option is the expressway route, which provides a quicker journey of approximately 2-2.5 hours. However, this route has less scenic beauty. The second option is to take the regular way along the South Coast, where you can enjoy the picturesque coastal cities and beaches, interact with the locals, and immerse yourself in the region’s beauty. However, this route tends to have crowded buses and a slightly longer travel time.
Uber and PickMe
Uber and PickMe are popular ride-sharing and taxi-hailing services in Sri Lanka. They offer tourists a more convenient option, rather than having to negotiate the price for every trip. Additionally, they provide a range of vehicle options to choose from.
Although this option may be more expensive than taking a bus or train, it is significantly more convenient and stress-free.
Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-tuk rides are considerably pricier than bus and train options. Long-distance tuk-tuk journeys can be exhausting and lacking comfort.
Additionally, tuk-tuks are not permitted travel on expressways, and their slower pace can result in longer travel times.
How to get around Galle
Walking
Galle Fort is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Walking is an excellent way to explore the narrow streets, Dutch colonial architecture, and historical sites within Galle Fort.
By tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are the most popular and convenient mode of transportation in Galle.
You’ll find them everywhere, and they’re great for short trips within the town or nearby attractions. Just negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Best time to visit Galle
The most popular time to visit is during the dry season. Here’s a breakdown of the weather and considerations for each season.
Dry Season (December to April)
The dry season is considered the best time to visit Galle. The weather is sunny, and there is minimal rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing, exploring the city, and enjoying the beautiful beaches.
However, this is the peak tourist season, the accommodations may be more expensive, and the city can be crowded
Intermonsoon Season (May to August)
During this period, Galle experiences occasional rainfall and higher humidity.
While it’s not as busy as the dry season, you can still enjoy your visit with occasional showers. The landscapes are lush and green during this time.
Monsoon Season (September to November)
Monsoon is the wettest period in Galle, with heavy rainfall and wind.
There are better times for outdoor activities or exploring the city than this, as the rain can be relentless. Many businesses and attractions may close during this season.
