5 Best things to do in Galle
1. Explore The Galle Fort
The Galle Fort is the most iconic attraction in the city and a must-visit for all tourists. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a perfect example of colonial architecture. You can take a leisurely stroll on its cobblestone streets, admire the charming old buildings, visit the museums and galleries, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
The Galle Fort Lighthouse
The Galle Fort Lighthouse is a popular landmark in the fort. Built by the British in 1939, it stands tall at 26 meters and offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean. It is also a great spot to watch the sunset.
Galle Clock Tower
Another iconic structure in the fort is the Galle Clock Tower. Constructed in 1883, it was built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. The clock still works and chimes every hour, adding a charming touch to the fort.
Tour the Galle Fort walls
To fully explore Galle Fort, start at the historic Clock Tower. Then, go towards the Main Gate and head south into the heart of the fort. You’ll pass the Dutch Reform Church and reach the renovated Dutch Hospital in the west. Next, head south to the famous Galle Lighthouse and follow the walls to Meeran Mosque, Flag Rock, and Triton Bastion. Finally, your tour ends at Star Bastion, where you can enjoy a splendid view of the northern coast towards Hikkaduwa.
On this route, you might see people playing cricket, try tasty street food, and take a break at one of the many bars in the fort.
This approximately 2km walk is best undertaken early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun.
Explore the interior of Galle Fort
The interior of Galle Fort is just as fascinating as the exterior. You can wander through its narrow streets, browse through local boutiques and souvenir shops, and try out traditional Sri Lankan dishes at one of the many restaurants.
During your walk, you will come across beautiful Dutch colonial architecture, as well as buildings that have been transformed into stylish hotels and cafes. There are also many art galleries showcasing local talent.
Here are some sights and attractions to explore:
- Dutch Reform Church: A historic Dutch church dating back to 1640.
- Old Dutch Hospital: An elegant hospital dating back to the 18th century, featuring beautiful colonnades.
- All Saints Anglican Church: Built in the late 1800s, this structure was expertly crafted from solid rock.
- Sudharmalaya Temple: A stunning white Buddhist temple situated within Galle Fort.
Sunset on the Fort’s Wall
One of the most breathtaking moments in Galle Fort is watching the sunset from the fort walls. As the sun slowly makes its descent, you’ll see a stunning spectrum of colours across the sky and reflecting off of the ocean. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot. You can even bring a picnic and enjoy the serene ambience as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Shopping at Galle Fort
Galle Fort has a variety of shops selling everything from traditional handicrafts to high-end designer goods. You can find beautiful hand-woven fabrics, intricate jewellery, and unique souvenirs to bring back home.
2. Relax at Jungle Beach in Unawatuna
Located just a short drive from Galle Fort, Unawatuna is home to Jungle Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches in Sri Lanka. This secluded beach is surrounded by lush green jungle and features clear blue waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
3. Attend a Cricket Match at the Galle International Stadium
Cricket is the most popular sport in Sri Lanka, and Galle is home to one of the country’s most iconic cricket stadiums. The Galle International Stadium offers stunning views of the ocean, making it a unique setting for watching a game. If you visit during a cricket match, be sure to grab some food and drinks from the nearby street vendors and join in on the lively atmosphere.
4. Surfing in Ahangama
This popular beach town is known for its excellent surfing conditions, with waves suitable for all levels of surfers. You can rent equipment and take lessons from one of the surf schools located along the beach. After a day of catching waves, you can relax at one of the beachside restaurants and watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
5. Visit Mirissa Beach
If you’re looking for a more laid-back beach experience, head to Mirissa. This small fishing village is famous for its quiet and pristine beaches. You can also take a boat ride from here to go whale watching in the Indian Ocean.
Another must-visit spot in Mirissa is Coconut Tree Hill, known for its iconic status. It offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and soak in the breathtaking ocean views, especially during sunset.
Parrot Rock is a small island located just off the coast of Mirissa. It’s accessible by foot during low tide and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Where to stay in Galle?
There are various accommodation options in Galle, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. If you want to experience the colonial charm of Galle Fort, stay at one of the boutique hotels inside the fort walls.
For a more laid-back beach vacation, there are plenty of resorts and villas in Unawatuna and nearby areas. You can also choose to stay in a homestay with a local family for a more authentic experience.
Where to eat in Galle?
Galle offers a diverse range of dining options, from street food to fine dining restaurants. You can sample traditional Sri Lankan cuisine at local eateries or try international dishes at upscale restaurants. Some must-try dishes in Galle include seafood curry, kottu roti, and hoppers. Be sure to also indulge in some coconut water or fresh fruit juice from the many fruit stands scattered throughout the city.
If you enjoy dumplings, you should give Dumplings Cafe a try! It’s a fantastic place for lunch.
A minute by Tuk Tuk restaurant offers beautiful ocean views and delicious drinks!
AQUA Forte is an upscale Italian restaurant.
When should I visit Galle?
Galle has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. This is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit during the off-season from May to August. However, do note that this period coincides with the monsoon season, so there may be heavy rainfall and limited availability of restaurants and services.
September and October are considered shoulder seasons with fewer tourists and lower prices. We visited in early November, which is also the beginning of the peak season. The weather during the day was great, but there was some rain during most afternoons and nights.
How long to stay in Galle?
To fully experience the main attractions in Galle, we suggest staying for 1-2 days. However, if you wish to explore additional nearby places, extending your stay from 5 days to 1 week would be ideal.
How to get to Galle?
The closest international airport to Galle is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which is about a 2-hour drive away. From there, you can take a taxi, or private car or arrange for a transfer to Galle.
You can also travel from Colombo to Galle by train. Trains depart multiple times a day and the journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
The cheapest way to reach Galle is by taking a local bus. However, please note that this option may not be the most comfortable and it may take more time.
If you plan to travel longer in Sri Lanka, we suggest renting a tuk-tuk. It offers the freedom to explore more of the country.
Getting around Galle
The best way to get around Galle is by tuk-tuk. You can also rent a bicycle or scooter if you prefer to explore on your own. For longer distances, there are buses and trains available. Taxis and private cars with drivers can also be hired for day trips or airport transfers.
