Galle — Whattamelon

Galle is located on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka. It’s very different city unlike the chaos of other Sri Lankan towns or the remote mountains. Galle was founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century so you can still find their influence in the architecture narrow streets and charming cafes. Talking a walk on the streets makes you forget where you really are. The city is very similar to Goa a present Indian state that was the capital of the whole Portuguese empire in Asia during their reign.

One way to reach here is you can travel along the scenic coastal route from Colombo to Galle stopping at some beautiful beach towns along the way.

Where to Stay

The Bartizan Galle Fort

The hotel is located right near the lighthouse. The ambiance is a mix of old-world charm and modern luxuries. Situated in alongside the forts perimeter the structure undergone multiple renovations since 17 century Dutch colonial period when it was built.

Jetwing Lighthouse

This is a great ocean front hotel offering beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. The rooms are spacious, have a private balcony and a dressing room. The staff and the facilities offered are great.

What to See

Galle Fort: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a highlight in Galle. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch. You can walk along the length of the ramparts offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Dutch Reformed Church: Located within the Galle Fort, this historic church dates back to the 18th century. It’s a reflection of simple yet elegant Dutch colonial architecture.

Galle Lighthouse: It’s positioned at the southern end of the fort and is Sri Lanka's oldest lighthouses dating back to 1848. It offers panoramic views of the coast and the fort. The Galle Lighthouse is a perfect postcard worthy location for that family picture.

Galle National Museum: Housed in a Dutch colonial building this museum exhibits artifacts showcasing the region's history, ancient weapons, pottery, and other colonial-era artifacts.

Maritime Archaeology Museum: Here you will find a collection of items recovered from shipwrecks around the Galle coastline, providing insight into Sri Lanka's maritime history.

Galle Clock Tower: The clock tower is a prominent landmark built in the late 19th century during the British rule which stands at the entrance of the fort.

Japanese Peace Pagoda: Situated on the Rumassala Hill overlooking Galle, this Buddhist stupa offers breathtaking views of the city and the Indian Ocean. It's a serene spot for meditation and relaxation.

Unawatuna Beach: Just a short drive from Galle Fort, Unawatuna is one of Sri Lanka's most popular beaches, known for its golden sands, clear blue waters. There are a lot of beach shacks along the shore offering sunbeds, great food and some of them also provide accommodation if you place to stay at the beach to explore the coral reefs snorkeling and diving.

Koggala Lake: About 10 kilometers from Galle, Koggala Lake is the largest natural lake in Sri Lanka. You can take a boat ride to explore its serene waters, mangrove forests, and small islands.

Hikkaduwa Coral Reef: This place is not exactly in Galle but on the way if you are travelling from Colombo to Galle. Located around 20 kilometers north of Galle, Hikkaduwa is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers.

Where to Eat

Hungry Restaurant Galle

They offer some good food options from burgers to Nasi goreng and mouthwatering seafood rice

Pedlar's Inn Cafe

They offer a mix of European food and traditional Sri Lankan food. Service is a bit slow but a nice place to grab some lunch after walking around the fort town. They also have gelato shop right opposite the restaurant so you can treat yourself with some frozen dessert

There are a lot of rice and curry places that you can discover on your walk around the town that offer traditional Sri Lankan home food. The restaurant prices in Galle are generally quite high when you compare it to other cities which offer more variety of tasty food for far lesser price.

Galle and its surroundings have much more to offer, including boutique shops, restaurants and vibrant local markets waiting to be explored.