Galle - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Galle

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Galle, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Galle and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Galle, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Galle for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Galle

Galle is a coastal town located in the south-western part of Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its UNESCO-protected Dutch fort, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. The town is also known for its beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and lovely cafes. Many visitors come to Galle to experience its unique blend of European and Asian cultures, enjoy the serene ambiance, and explore the surrounding natural beauty.

What to visit in Galle

Certainly, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Galle, Sri Lanka, along with some brief information about each: 1. Galle Fort - This historic fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and has since been occupied by the Dutch and British. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, known for its unique architecture, museums, and stunning views.
2. Unawatuna Beach - This beautiful beach is known for its clear blue water, white sand, and palm trees. It's a great place to swim, snorkel, and relax in the sun.
3. Koggala Lake - This scenic lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and water monitor lizards. Visitors can take a boat ride around the lake to see the sights.
4. Japanese Peace Pagoda - This Buddhist stupa was built by Japanese monks in the 20th century and is one of the most peaceful and serene spots in Galle. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is a great place for meditation.
5. Maritime Museum - This museum showcases the rich history of Sri Lanka's maritime culture, including ancient boats, navigational equipment, and diving gear. It's a must-visit for history buffs.
6. Galle Lighthouse - This iconic lighthouse was first built in 1848 and is still in use today. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline.
7. Moonstone Mines - Sri Lanka is famous for its moonstones, and visitors can see them being mined and learn about the production process at the Moonstone Mines in Ambalangoda, just a short drive from Galle.
8. St. Aloysius College Chapel - This stunning church was built in the 19th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate wood carvings. It's a testament to Sri Lanka's rich colonial history.
These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Galle, Sri Lanka. There are plenty more to explore, making it a great destination for travelers of all interests.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Galle.

When to go on holiday to Galle

The best time to travel to Galle is between November and April, as it is the dry season in Sri Lanka. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm weather with little rain. The monsoon season is from May to October, with the heaviest rains usually occurring in June and July. However, Galle is beautiful all year round, so it really depends on what you want to do during your visit. If you prefer to avoid crowds and get lower rates, you could consider travelling during the off-season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Galle

There are a few ways to get to Galle, Sri Lanka depending on where you are starting from. Here are some common options: 1. By Train: The most scenic way to reach Galle is by train from Colombo. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and offers stunning views of Sri Lanka's countryside and coastline. Trains leave from Colombo Fort station frequently throughout the day and tickets can be purchased at the station or online. Once in Galle, the train station is within walking distance of the historic Fort area.
2. By Bus: There are several buses that run from Colombo to Galle on a regular basis. The journey can take around 3-4 hours depending on the traffic and time of day. Buses depart from the main bus stations in Colombo and arrive at the Galle bus station. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi to your accommodation.
3. By Car/Taxi: If you prefer a more private mode of transportation, you can hire a car or taxi to take you from Colombo to Galle. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and can be arranged through a travel agency or your accommodation. It's important to negotiate the price before you begin the journey.
4. By Air: The nearest airport to Galle is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Galle. Additionally, there is a domestic airport in Koggala which serves a few flights from Colombo and other South Asian cities. From Koggala, Galle is just a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride away.
I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Galle, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Galle

Certainly! Here are some typical foods of Galle, Sri Lanka, along with a brief description of each: 1. Kottu Roti - A popular street food made with shredded roti, vegetables, and a choice of meat or egg. It’s stir-fried on a hot griddle with spices and can be served with a variety of sauces.
2. Hoppers - Also called Appa, these small, bowl-shaped pancakes are made with a fermented batter of rice flour and coconut milk. They can be eaten plain or filled with an egg, onion, or vegetables, and they're often enjoyed for breakfast.
3. Fish Curry - Made with a variety of fish, coconut milk, and local spices, this flavorful and aromatic dish is a staple of Sri Lankan cuisine. It can be served with rice, roti, or hoppers.
4. Pol Sambol - A coconut-based side dish made with shredded coconut, red chili, onions, and lime juice. It’s usually eaten with rice, bread, or hoppers.
5. Lamprais - A Dutch-influenced dish that’s popular in Sri Lanka, especially in Galle. It’s a combination of meat (usually beef or chicken), rice, and vegetables, all of which are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
6. Wambatu Moju - A tangy and sweet pickle made with eggplants, onions, and vinegar. It’s a popular accompaniment to rice and curry.
I hope this helps! Let me know if there's anything else I can do for you.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Galle an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other destinations in Sri Lanka, Galle can be considered a bit more expensive, especially because it is a popular tourist destination. However, the cost of your trip largely depends on your preferences and budget. Accommodation and transportation options in Galle vary widely, so it is possible to find options at different price points. There are also many restaurants and cafes in Galle offering different types of cuisine, ranging from budget-friendly street food to high-end dining experiences.
Ultimately, how expensive your trip to Galle is will depend on the activities you choose to do and the level of comfort you require. But in general, Galle may be a bit more expensive than some other destinations in Sri Lanka.

Where to find accomodation in Galle

When visiting Galle, Sri Lanka, it is best to find accommodation in areas such as Galle Fort, Unawatuna, Thalpe, and Koggala. Galle Fort is the historical area of the city and is a popular destination for tourists. Unawatuna is a beach town located just south of Galle Fort, with plenty of accommodation options. Thalpe is a quiet coastal village located just east of Unawatuna and is perfect for those looking for some peace and quiet. Koggala is a secluded beach area on the southern coast of Sri Lanka and is great for those looking for a more private and luxurious experience.
You can check hotel prices at Galle here:
Booking.com

Is Galle a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, in general, Galle is considered a safe place for tourists. The city is widely regarded as one of the safest in the country. There are, however, a few precautions that visitors should take, such as being aware of their surroundings when walking around at night and keeping an eye on their belongings. It is also advisable to only use licensed taxis or reputable transportation services. By taking these precautions, tourists can enjoy the beauty and culture of Galle without any unnecessary concerns for their safety.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Galle.

What type of travelers will enjoy Galle the most?

Galle is a wonderful place for all types of travelers, whether you are a couple, young person looking for fun or a family. Here are some of the reasons why each one would enjoy visiting Galle: - Couples: Galle is a romantic destination where you can enjoy a candle-lit dinner in a fortress overlooking the ocean, stroll hand in hand along the cobblestone streets, visit the iconic lighthouse, relax in the sun on the golden beaches, or take a boat ride to see some of the local wildlife.
- Young people looking for fun: Galle is surrounded by some of Sri Lanka's best beaches and there are plenty of bars and cafes where you can try local beer and cocktails. If you're into surfing, the beaches of Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa have good waves. There are also plenty of shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Families: Galle has a wide range of family-friendly activities, including visiting the Galle Fort, exploring the historic buildings, and trying local foods. There are also several parks and wildlife sanctuaries nearby where you can see elephants, monkeys, and birds. The beaches are also great for swimming, playing, and building sandcastles.

How to get around Galle

In Galle, Sri Lanka, you can use various types of transportation to move around the city, such as tuk-tuks, taxis, buses or renting a bike or motorbike. Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient mode of transportation, especially for short distances. Taxis are also available but are relatively more expensive than tuk-tuks. Buses are cheap, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Renting a bike or motorbike is a good option if you want to explore the city on your own and have some adventure.

What to see around Galle

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Galle, Sri Lanka: 1. Unawatuna Beach 2. Mirissa Beach 3. Koggala Lake 4. Hikkaduwa Beach 5. Bentota Beach 6. Yala National Park 7. Sinharaja Forest Reserve 8. Udawalawe National Park 9. Tangalle Beach 10. Weligama Bay All these places have their own unique charm and attractions that you can explore in a day trip from Galle.
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