How to Explore Galle

Galle is a historic city located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. It is home to iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, especially the Old Dutch Fort, a treasured remnant of the island's colonial heritage. Exploring the rugged coasts of Galle is a treat; as you discover charming fisher villages and scenic bathing spots. The city centre too is a hodge-podge of activities, which you will enjoy being a part of. This article highlights the best attractions in Galle.

Explore the Old Dutch Fort

The Dutch Fort is Galle's iconic attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stronghold was built in the 16th century by the invading Portuguese who later conceded to the Dutch who went on to add most of the buildings and features present to date. After the Dutch were overtaken by the British, the Galle Fort, also known as the Old Dutch Fort, was further fortified and part of it became a spice storage centre for the East India Company. Today the fort is like a time machine, taking you back as you explore the well-maintained interiors. As you enter, you will be greeted by old cobblestone streets that twist and turn past vintage English churches, the maritime museum, and several historic Dutch villas most of which now serve as cafes and restaurants with long spacious verandas. Head towards the ramparts for sweeping views of the emerald green ocean, and a sandy stretch of beach where you can enjoy a cooling dip in the ocean. The Old Lighthouse too stands sentinal there and is another treasure you will want to explore.

More About the Galle Lighthouse

The Dutch Fort has many features worth exploring and you will probably want to visit the place on more than one occasion, in which case you should consider convenient accommodation within the city. Places like KK Beach Galle are less than half an hour from the fort, and a sought-after beachfront boutique hotel Galle has to offer. Standing tall as a testament to Galle's vibrant maritime past, you will find the lighthouse cuts a striking image against the sky and ocean and is best visited at sunset when it looks magical. Built in 1848 by the British colonists, the lighthouse was destroyed in a fire and later rebuilt at the present site in 1939 imitating its former structure. People are not permitted to enter the lighthouse; however, the surroundings are ideal for snapping up your social media pictures of sun, sand, and sea.

Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Peace Pagoda, built by Japanese monks, is located in Unwatuna just 5 km from Galle, and is a beach destination you don't want to miss. The structure rests on the historic Rumassala Hill, which too has an interesting backstory dating back to the Ramayana chronicles. The hill is famed for its collection of plants, wildlife, and birds and is a lovely scenic spot for bird's-eye views of the surroundings. According to legend, the Monkey God Hanuman, on a quest to obtain a rare medicinal plant from the Himalayas, tore off a chunk of the mountain, obtained the plant he wanted, and then discarded the rest of the broken mountain, which fell into Unawatuna and became Rumassala Hill. From Rumassala, it's a short distance to the famous hidden gem, Jungle Beach, which can only be accessed via a short trek through a small woodland. The isolated beach is a lovely oasis for swimming and spotting marine life.

Explore the Markets

A busy town, Galle is a well known for its markets. You will find several inside the Galle Fort, while those outside are ideal to explore for a taste of local flavour. Wander around the city and you will see vintage boutiques and stores and some from popular chains as well, selling a range of goodies like garments, handicrafts, handloom fabric, leather goods, anitques, souvenirs, local fruits, wood carvings, and much more. You may want to check out the fish markets too for a taste of local trading traditions.