Why a stopover at Galle?
Bliss in the southwest coast of beautiful Sri Lanka lies one of the worthwhile a tourist must visit stop, the city of Galle. Approximately 119 kms away from the heart of Colombo, Galle is mostly known for a wind down relax amongst its beaches and a must visit tour around the “Galle fort”. This 4th largest city in the island is considered as an all-year-round destination, but the sea is at its best between November and April.
Proudly recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site, the Galle city offers tremendous experiences of ancient history to a day at the beach or even if it’s just a simple walk around the city shopping excursion you are looking for.
What are the best ways to get to Galle?
Galle remains the prime gateway to the southern coastline, with easy accessibility on the Southern Expressway from Colombo to popular beach towns like Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and beyond.
Tip: Travelling from Colombo, getting about to the city of Galle is convenient by public transportation via train or bus. You are at convenience by the A2 highway if you option to travel by same.
Colombo to Galle
Train | Kandy– Fort station- Galle via Kandy to Matara train (Recommended)
Journey: 6 hours
Cost: LKR 320 (one way)
Departure: Only 1 direct train departing at 5 am
Tip >to check on the train schedules, fares, and routes, you can visit: www.railway.gov.lk, which is the official Sri Lankan website for Railway
Bus | Kandy Good shed Bus terminal – Kaduwela – Galle town
Journey: 4 hr 30 min
Cost: LKR 400 (one way)
Private Vehicle | Kandy -Anuradhapura
Journey: 3 hours
Cost: LKR 15000- LKR 19000 (one way)
Ella to Galle
Train | Ella – Fort station – Galle station
Journey: 11 hr 30 min
Cost: LKR 550 – LKR 1200 (one way)
Departure frequency: every 4 hrs
Private Vehicle | Ella – Galle (Recommended)
Journey: 2hr 42min
Cost: LKR 11000 – LKR 14000 (one way)
Tip >Rent a private vehicle with us! www.takemesrilanka.com
Things to do in Galle
1. The water and about - A day at the beach
You are certainly in the right city if you are a tropical beach lover! With approximately ten beaches in the near proximity, Unawatuna beach and Jungle beach are two of the most popular beaches out of the ten. However all beaches along the Galle coast are extravagant for a relaxed day amongst the coconut trees and sandy beaches.
Not forgetting the scrumptious festivities of sea food for the palette that you will find in the bordering restaurants.
Galle avails you to engage in some of the most exciting water sports and activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing and much more.
Tip: Don’t forget to ask for package deals that are available in most Water sports activity corners.
Stilt fishing is an ancient method of fishing in Sri Lanka, where the fisherman sits on a stick and crossbar in the sea. It is an interesting sight visit where you will have the opportunity to engage in the activity.
Whale and dolphin watching is another interesting to do in your itinerary. The best time for this activity is from End November to early April/ May.
Tip: If you opt for this activity you are able to hire a boat or book a cruise depending on your budget. The amounts vary depending on the number of persons aboard and also by excursion navigators. You will ideally pay for a boat for this activity.
Whale and dolphin watching is another interesting to do in your itinerary. The best time for this activity is from End November to early April/ May.
Tip: If you option to this activity you are able to hire a boat or book a cruise depending on your budget. The amounts vary depending on number of persons aboard and also by excursion navigators. You will ideally pay for a boat for this activity.
Visit the Mahamodara Sea Turtles Hatchery which is home to over 40 rescue sea turtles in Sri Lanka
2. • Sightseeing – Don’t forget to take your HAT with you!
The UNESCO heritage Galle fort, Sri Lanka also known as the Galle Dutch fort is the main attraction for sightseeing. This Fort built by the Portuguese is a spectacular piece of work for its archeological and architectural cultural heritage which has contributed to obtaining the title of a UNESCO world heritage site.
A walk around the fort by itself is a tour of interest where you will be able to see some ancient local and foreign-owned houses display a cultural effect. The fort also consists of museums including a Gem museum and National Museum of Galle.
Tip: Open hours of the museum: 9.00 Am – 4.00 PM Tuesday to Saturday (Closed on Sunday & Monday)
Location: Church Street, Galle Fort, Galle. 80000, Sri Lanka
Entrance Fee: Adult- LKR 300. Child – LKR 150
You are likely to treat yourself to a shopping spree whether it is for souvenirs/ batik clothes/ Gems and jewelry or even casual goods.
Do pay a visit to the Barefoot store for all your fabrics, linen, crafts, and toys. This store is one of the leading and creative handloom production center where weaving is done by the company itself that is of significance in the cultural aspect of Sri Lanka.
The Old Dutch hospital is now a reformed shopping experience where you will indulge in some of the exclusive ancient architecture and will also be able to treat yourself to some shaded and lavish dining experiences at a restaurant of your choice.
Tip: Don’t forget to pick an ice-cream form the multiple vendors around to subside the sun and heat in the weather.
Dutch reformed church is a masterpiece for the stained glass behind the alter. It is treasured for its historical value located in the Galle fort.
Tip: Operation hours: 08.30 a.m. to 04.30 p.m.
Entry Fee: 300 LKR for adults and 150 LKR for children
The Japanese peace pagoda is a place of inner peace and tranquility located in the top hills of Rumassala situated in Unawatuna. It’s gained attraction for its location and purpose situated in a 20 min hike from the west end of Unawatuna beach. The tour is more attractive for the walk through the jungle beach or strip of ocean that you pass by.
Tip: Try visiting the site in time for sunset for a breathtaking view of the Galle bay and the ocean surrounding. You sure will not regret it.
You may have to dress in modest attire, as you will be visiting a temple.
A quick stop at the Meeran mosque brings you the simple pleasure of pure architecture, including its chandeliers, flooring, and structure.
The Marine archeological museum in the Dutch fort is a different experience where you will gain insight into snippets of marine life. They also give you insights to tips and stories of life at sea which indeed is an experience of a lifetime
The Galle Lighthouse, A must-see view from the lighthouse itself standing approximately 26.5 meters tall. The ocean view is breathtaking if you chance to spare a few minutes off your tour of the Galle Fort for a view unforgettable.
Where to stay in Galle?
Finding accommodation suits your budget is pretty easy in Galle as it is a tourism booming destination. We have recommended a few top picked places in the destination according to TripAdvisor ratings.
Hostels >
Backpack Beach hostel
https://www.booking.com/hotel/lk/back-pack-beach-hostel-and-guest-house.en-gb.html
The happy place hostel
https://www.booking.com/hotel/lk/the-happy-place-hostel.en-gb.html
Where to eat in Galle?
Galle city has many restaurants that serve food at low prices. Most of these places provide both local and western cuisines. So, why not enjoy the varying food culture while you are here!
A minute by tuk-tuk -Vegetarian Friendly, Local cuisine, Bar, Seafood, European, Asian, Sri Lankan
Experience the fun and quirky side of Sri Lankan food culture ranging from a variety of Asian-inspired tapas, salads, and mains that will indulge your taste buds with previously unimagined combinations.
Hoppa Galle Fort – Vegetarian Friendly, Asian, Sri Lankan
Unusual hopper recipes with some solid Lankan curries.
Sugar Bistro and Wine bar – Bar, European, Asian, Sri Lankan
Sugar Bistro is a lively and exciting restaurant and bar from the team behind 41 Sugar and Silk.Do not forget to try out the infamous Sugar burger.
Isle of gelato – Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
A hidden cafe / ice cream parlor and one of the best coffees in Sri Lanka and delicious ice cream in many interesting flavors, nice interior, good service and great location.
With the colonial vibe, cobblestone streets, tiny art galleries, and boutiques along with the magnificent coastal lines, Galle is definitely Sri Lanka’s sweetheart destination. Was our ultimate Galle guide 2020 was helpful?
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