Galle
Historic coastal city with a well-preserved Dutch fort, charming streets, and beautiful beaches.
Overview
Galle is a historic port city on Sri Lanka's southern coast, best known for the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch. The fort's cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, and ocean views create a unique blend of history and charm.
Visitors can explore art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes within the fort, or relax on nearby beaches. Galle is also a gateway to whale watching, surfing, and exploring the southern coastline.
Key attractions include: - Galle Fort and Lighthouse - Dutch Reformed Church - Maritime Archaeology Museum - Unawatuna Beach - Japanese Peace Pagoda - Flag Rock Bastion - Old Dutch Hospital
Highlights
- Galle Fort (UNESCO site)
- Colonial architecture
- Lighthouse
- Unawatuna Beach
- Art galleries and cafes
- Maritime Museum
- Peace Pagoda
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the fort
- Visit at sunset for beautiful views
- Try seafood at local restaurants
- Shop for handmade crafts and jewelry
- Take a tuk-tuk to nearby beaches
Nearby Attractions
- Unawatuna Beach
- Jungle Beach
- Hikkaduwa
- Koggala Lake
- Rumassala Sanctuary
Location
Quick Information
- Location
- Southern Province
- Opening Hours
- Open 24 hours (shops 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM)
- Entry Fee
- Galle Fort: Free entry
- Best Time to Visit
- December to April
How to Reach
- By Air
- Nearest airport: Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (119 km)
- By Road
- Southern Expressway from Colombo (2 hours)
- By Train
- Direct trains from Colombo and Matara
Weather
- Summer
- Hot and sunny (March to May)
- Monsoon
- Heavy rains (May to September)
- Winter
- Pleasant and dry (December to February)