Top 10 Things to Do in Galle, Sri Lanka
Galle is a coastal city in Sri Lanka that boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and gorgeous beaches. The city is surrounded by a 17th-century fort that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in local culture, or explore the city’s rich history, Galle has something to offer everyone. Here’s a list of the top 10 things to do in Galle.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Galle Fort
The Galle Fort is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka, and a visit to this 17th-century fort is a must-do when you’re in Galle. The fort is a well-preserved example of Dutch colonial architecture and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort has been restored to its former glory and is now a bustling hub of activity, with shops, restaurants, and hotels located within its walls.
When you visit the fort, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll along its ramparts and admire the views of the Indian Ocean. You can also visit the lighthouse and see the lighthouse keeper’s house, which is now a museum. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of the fort and the role it played in Sri Lanka’s maritime history.
Admission to the fort is priced at around LKR 1,500 per person (approximately USD 8), and the museum is priced at around LKR 1,000 per person (approximately USD 5).
- Visit the National Maritime Museum
If you’re interested in learning about Sri Lanka’s maritime culture and history, be sure to visit the National Maritime Museum. This museum is housed in a former Dutch warehouse and showcases a wide range of exhibits, including ancient maps, ship models, and navigational instruments. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of Sri Lanka’s maritime culture and to see some of the tools and artifacts used by seafarers in the past.
Admission to the National Maritime Museum is priced at around LKR 500 per person (approximately USD 2.5).
- Take a Sunset Boat Tour
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Galle and its surrounding waters is to take a sunset boat tour. You’ll be able to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy stunning views of the sun setting over the Indian Ocean. The boat tour typically includes a stop at a nearby island, where you can swim, sunbathe, and relax.
Sunset boat tours typically start from the Galle harbor and are priced at around LKR 4,000 to LKR 6,000 per person (approximately USD 20 to 30).
- Visit the Dutch Reformed Church
The Dutch Reformed Church is a historic church located in the heart of the Galle Fort. The church was built in 1754 and is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka. The church is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and its classic Dutch colonial architecture. You can take a guided tour of the church and learn about its history and significance to the local community.
Admission to the Dutch Reformed Church is priced at around LKR 500 per person (approximately USD 2.5).
- Stroll Through the Galle Market
The Galle Market is a bustling hub of activity located in the heart of the city. The market is known for its fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. You can stroll through the market and sample local street food, watch local craftsmen at work, and purchase souvenirs to take home. The market is open every day, and it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the daily life of the people of Galle.
- Take a Cooking Class
Sri Lanka is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local food culture. You’ll be able to learn about the ingredients, cooking techniques, and recipes that are used to create some of the country’s most popular dishes. You’ll also get to enjoy the fruits of your labor and taste the delicious dishes you’ve made.
Cooking classes are priced at around LKR 5,000 to LKR 8,000 per person (approximately USD 25 to 40) and typically include a meal.
- Relax on Unawatuna Beach
Unawatuna Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka and is known for its stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and offers a wide range of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving. You can also rent umbrellas and lounge chairs and relax on the beach.
Admission to Unawatuna Beach is priced at around LKR 500 per person (approximately USD 2.5), and water sports and activities are priced separately.
- Visit the Jungle Beach
The Jungle Beach is a secluded beach located a short drive from Galle. The beach is surrounded by lush jungle and is known for its stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving. The Jungle Beach is also a great place to spot wildlife, including monkeys and birds.
Admission to the Jungle Beach is priced at around LKR 1,000 per person (approximately USD 5), and water sports and activities are priced separately.
- Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda
The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located on a hill overlooking Galle. The temple was built by Japanese Buddhists in the 1990s and is a peaceful and serene place to relax and enjoy the views. You can explore the temple grounds and admire the stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the city of Galle.
- Bicycle tour around the city
Another fun and exciting thing to do in Galle is to take a scenic bicycle tour around the city. This is a great way to explore the city at a relaxed pace, while taking in the sights and sounds of the local area. The bicycle tour can take you to some of the most beautiful and historic parts of Galle, including the Galle Fort, the Lighthouse, and the old Dutch church. You can also stop by local markets, temples, and beaches, and enjoy the local food and drinks along the way. The bicycle tour usually lasts for a few hours and can be arranged through local tour operators or your hotel. This is a great option for travelers who prefer an eco-friendly and active mode of transportation, and it’s an excellent way to get off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of Galle.
How to get to the Galle town.
Galle is easily accessible by road, rail, and air from other major cities in Sri Lanka. The city is located approximately 120 kilometers south of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.
By Road:
If you’re traveling by road, you can take a bus or hire a taxi from Colombo or other nearby cities. The journey by road takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis are the most convenient option, but they are also the most expensive. Buses are a more affordable option but can be crowded and may take longer.
By Rail:
If you’re traveling by rail, you can take a train from Colombo to Galle. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and is a scenic route along the coast. Trains are a convenient and affordable option, but they can be crowded, especially during peak travel seasons.
By Air:
If you’re traveling by air, you can fly from Colombo to Galle. There are several domestic airlines that operate flights to Galle from Colombo, including Sri Lankan Airlines and Mihin Lanka. The flight takes approximately 45 minutes and is the quickest and most convenient option, but it’s also the most expensive.
Once you arrive in Galle, you can explore the city on foot, by tuk-tuk, or by taxi. Tuk-tuks are the most affordable option, but they may be slow and not available and during peak traffic hours. Taxis are a more convenient option, but they are also more expensive.
It’s recommended to carry a map or download a map app on your smartphone to help you navigate the city. You should also carry bottled water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the hot and humid months of the year.
Tips !
When visiting the Galle Fort, it’s important to dress modestly and respect the local culture. You should also remove their shoes when entering temples and other religious sites.
It’s also important to be aware of your personal safety and belongings when exploring the city. It’s recommended to carry a small backpack or shoulder bag and keep your valuables in a safe place. You should also be mindful of pickpockets and other theft in busy areas, such as markets and tourist hotspots.
Where to Stay
Galle has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:
Luxury Hotels:
- Amari Galle: This luxury hotel is located within the Galle Fort and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a spa. The rooms start at approximately USD 200 per night.
- Jetwing Lighthouse: This 5-star hotel is located just outside the Galle Fort and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a spa. The rooms start at approximately USD 300 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels:
- The Fort Printers: This mid-range hotel is located within the Galle Fort and offers comfortable rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool. The rooms start at approximately USD 150 per night.
- Galle Heritage Villa: This mid-range hotel is located just outside the Galle Fort and offers spacious rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool. The rooms start at approximately USD 100 per night.
Budget Guesthouses:
- The Sun House: This budget guesthouse is located within the Galle Fort and offers basic rooms and shared facilities, including a shared kitchen and lounge area. The rooms start at approximately USD 25 per night.
- White House Guesthouse: This budget guesthouse is located just outside the Galle Fort and offers basic rooms and shared facilities, including a shared kitchen and lounge area. The rooms start at approximately USD 20 per night.
Tips !
When choosing your accommodation, it’s important to consider your budget and preferences, as well as the location. If you want to be close to the Galle Fort and the main tourist attractions, it’s best to stay within the fort or just outside of it. If you’re on a budget, you may want to consider staying in a budget guesthouse outside of the fort.
It’s also important to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as the best hotels and guesthouses can fill up quickly. It’s recommended to book through a reputable travel agency or online booking platform to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Best Restaurants:
Galle is famous for its delicious cuisine, which is a mix of Sri Lankan, Indian, and European flavors. Here are some of the best restaurants to try in the city:
- The Lighthouse Restaurant: This restaurant is located at the Jetwing Lighthouse hotel and offers a fine dining experience. The menu features a range of international dishes, as well as traditional Sri Lankan dishes. The average cost for a meal is approximately USD 25-30 per person.
- Spice Kitchen: This restaurant is located within the Galle Fort and offers a range of traditional Sri Lankan dishes, including rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu roti. The average cost for a meal is approximately USD 10-15 per person.
- The Dutch House Restaurant: This restaurant is located within the Galle Fort and offers a range of international dishes, as well as traditional Sri Lankan dishes. The average cost for a meal is approximately USD 20-25 per person.
- Cafe de Architect: This restaurant is located within the Galle Fort and offers a range of international dishes, as well as traditional Sri Lankan dishes. The average cost for a meal is approximately USD 15-20 per person.
- Barista Cafe: This cafe is located within the Galle Fort and offers a range of coffee, tea, and light snacks. The average cost for a meal is approximately USD 5-10 per person.
Tips !
When dining in Galle, it’s recommended to try some of the traditional Sri Lankan dishes, such as rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu roti. You should also try some of the local seafood, which is fresh and delicious. It’s also important to check the prices before ordering, as some restaurants can be quite expensive.
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free dining experience, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. You can also ask your hotel or guesthouse for recommendations on the best restaurants in the area.
In conclusion, Galle is a beautiful and historic city in Sri Lanka that offers a range of activities, accommodations, and dining options to suit all budgets and preferences. From exploring the Galle Fort, to visiting the beaches and temples, to trying the delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Galle. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, Galle is a must-visit destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. So pack your bags and head to Galle for an unforgettable travel experience!
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka and want to include a visit to the Galle town, contact us for more information and to get a personalized quote for your travel itinerary. You can reach us by phone at +94 117 133 858 or +94 76 2475 645 or by email at [email protected] Or you can visit our website to get a personalized quote https://walklankaholidays.com/personalized-quote (https://walklankaholidays.com/personalized-quote/)/. Let us help you plan the perfect trip to Sri Lanka and experience the natural beauty of coastal areas for yourself.
