Galle is an old town located on the Southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The city is heavily influenced by Dutch heritage owing to its fortification in the early 17th century. Most people attend the Galle Fort offering spectacular coastal views of a rich deep blue sea and beautiful tropical conditions during clear, sun filled skies. When in Galle, visit the following attractions to make most of your Sri Lankan experience.
Galle
Traveling to Galle from the Capital
Travel from Colombo to Galle includes easier, comfortable and efficient options by train. Pre-book a first-class train ticket on the Rajadhani Express to secure your seat on a full air conditioned carriage. The journey covers a 3-hour ride with beautiful scenery and comfort. Traveling by taxi is a costly option, but you will reach Galle in under 2 hours in moderate traffic conditions.
Places to See in Galle
Once you have reach the fort city, browse through the delis and small eateries for a quick bite. The region includes many beautifully decorated restaurants with offers of traditional dishes including succulent and flavorful curries.
Water Activities
Participate in an exotic scuba dive near Unawatuna and view historic shipwrecks and extensive coral reef. During conducive weather conditions, enjoy a boat trip off the fort and get close to whales, dolphins and breathtaking sea life along the Indian Ocean.
Koggala Beach
Koggala Beach is rich in history with its fishing expeditions dating back to World War II. You will see fisherman practicing on extended poles along the coast much to the amusement of tourists. While in Koggala, visit the local temple displaying Buddhist culture and many traditional artworks.
Galle has much to offer from its Dutch markets along the fort to the Hiyare Forest Nature Reserve located around 17 km from the city, and rich in striking wildlife. View elephants and spot a leopard at the Yala National Park or unwind with a deep tissue massage at the local spas.
In Galle, there is something for everyone to do.