How to Explore Galle

Galle, a historic coastal city in southern Sri Lanka, is steeped in a rich heritage, found in the walls of its stunning architecture, and within its fascinating melting pot of cultures. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this charming city offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into Sri Lanka's 3000-year-old history, paired with picturesque landscapes and unforgettable views. Discover the rocky shoreline and ancient bastions of Galle, with a guide to exploring one of the top destinations in the country. 

Discovering the Historic Galle Fort

At the heart of Galle’s charm lies Galle Fort, a remarkable fortress built by Portuguese colonists in 1505. Later fortified by the Dutch, and overtaken by the British, this well-preserved structure is marked by the city’s long colonial history, serving as a gateway to its storied past. Visitors can enter through one of the fort’s many gates, and explore the bastions and fortified walls, built from granite, coral and architectural influences of the time. As one of the top Galle tourist places to visit, its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with a blend of colonial buildings, cultural landmarks and charming boutiques and cafes. Key landmarks include the iconic lighthouse, Groote Kerk Dutch Church, National Maritime Museum and old, British Colonial hotels. Only a 20-minute drive from beachfront hotels like KK Beach Galle Sri Lanka, taking a stroll along the fort’s ramparts is also a must --- looming over the Indian Ocean, the elevated walkways offer panoramic views of the deep blue waves and the surrounding cityscape, particularly breathtaking at sunset.

It is also important to note that Galle's maritime importance proceeds colonial invaders, having once served as the crossroads for traders across Asia and the Middle East. Today, archaeological evidence of this can be found at the Colombo National Museum, in the form of a trilingual stone inscription originating from a pre-Portuguese era Galle.  For a bonus adventure, head to the capital and learn about a fascinating trade relationship between Ancient China, Persia, and Sri Lanka, with the stone tablet inscribed with blessings in Chinese, Persian and Tamil. 

Embracing Local Culture

Much like the inscription commissioned by Admiral Zheng He, Galle’s cultural richness is reflected in its diverse community, which includes Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher populations. Each group has contributed to the city’s unique cultural identity, a patchwork of traditions nurtured by generations. Visit the Old Galle Mosque and Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple, neighbouring ivory structures located within the Fort, an example of Galle's multiculturalism. 

To fully embrace Galle’s culture, consider participating in local festivals. Notable events include The Galle Literary Festival, an internationally renowned annual affair, that attracts writers and book lovers from around the world to celebrate literature and the arts. This event showcases local talent and provides a platform for discussions on various literary themes, in addition to cultural tours, historic walks and even cooking classes around the city. 

You can also explore the traditional arts and crafts of Galle. Visit local workshops where artisans create intricate lacework, pottery, and wood carvings. Engaging with these craftspeople offers insight into their techniques and the cultural significance behind their work.

Culinary Delights

Food plays an important role in discovering a city's identity. Naturally, exploring Galle is incomplete without tasting its unique medley of flavours. Street food stalls and local eateries serve a range of dishes that highlight Sri Lankan flavours, while contemporary cafes and upscale restaurants transform local ingredients into fusion and international fare. 

Start your culinary journey with a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast, such as hoppers, a crepe-like classic served with coconut sambol and curry. These dishes can be found virtually anywhere, especially at resorts and hole-in-the-wall streetfront stores. For lunch, the Galle Fort offers a staggering collection of restaurants and cafes, ideal for those looking to grab a bite to eat after some exploration. Restaurants such as the Pedlar's Inn and Maru Poke Cafe serve delectable dishes with picturesque views of the cobblestone walkways, while classic spots like Elita Restaurant do seafood like no other. Galle Market, located just outside the Fort, is another excellent spot for sampling local flavours, with a variety of Sri Lankan fruit and snacks to try. 

As the sun sets, explore Galle’s nightlife, illuminated by trendy bars and artsy lanterns within the Fort. Many of these establishments offer a mix of local and international cuisines, along with refreshing cocktails and local beers.

Exploring Nearby Attractions

While Galle itself is rich in history and culture, several nearby attractions are worth exploring. A short drive from the city leads to beautiful beaches such as Unawatuna and Mirissa, renowned for scenic viewpoints, water sports and golden beaches. 

For nature enthusiasts, the Kottawa Rainforest Reserve is just a short journey away. This pocket of greenery offers a chance to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s diverse flora and fauna, with guided walks that educate visitors about the ecosystem.