How to Plan Your Galle Fort Guided Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Galle, one of the must-do activities is a guided walking tour of the Galle Dutch Fort. This tour will take you through the lively streets of Galle, showing you the best-preserved colonial forts in Asia and many other places of historical interest.

Experience

The tour begins with a meeting at the entrance to the Fort, where you will be greeted by a local guide who has been a resident of Galle his entire life. He will be your host throughout the journey and will take you through the town’s history through the many layers of color and beauty that it presents.

Highlights

The tour offers a visit to one of the best-preserved colonial forts in Asia, with stunning old architecture across the streets of the fort. The highlight of the tour offers more than just a walk through the streets of Galle — it offers you a profound understanding of the town’s history.

Full description

The natural harbor of Galle was famous as far back as 1400 BC. At that time, it was one of the world’s main ports from which cinnamon was exported. The arrival of the Portuguese marked a change in the history of the town. They made Galle their headquarters and destroyed many essential monuments in the area. Later, the Dutch took over, and the initial palisade fort built by the Portuguese was expanded upon by them. The tour offers you insight into how the fort came to be constructed and how it was continually expanded to its current state. You’ll also learn much about the political landscape that was prevalent in the country during the colonial period. You’ll also enjoy a walk through the lively streets and experience the old-fashioned architecture that you won’t want to miss. The experience is genuinely unforgettable as you’ll have a profound understanding of Galle’s history when you return home.

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in booking the tour, you can do so through the Get Your Guide website. Book the tour here. The tour begins at 4:30 pm, and you can expect to spend around 2.5 hours immersed in the history and beauty of Galle.

Book Your Tour Now

The Galle Fort Guided Walking Tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the history of one of the best-preserved colonial forts in Asia. With a local guide who has knowledge inherited from his ancestors, you’ll learn much about the history of this beautiful town. So, make sure to include this tour on your list of things to do in Galle when you plan your next trip to Sri Lanka.

Frequently Asked Questions About Galle

Are you planning to visit Galle anytime soon? Or do you want to know more about the beautiful city located in Sri Lanka? Well, you’re in the right place. This blog post will answer all your questions and provide you with ample information on Galle.

1. Where is Galle Located?

Galle is a city situated in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka, just 119 kilometers (74 miles) south of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. Galle attracts visitors from all over the world with its beautiful beaches, rich heritage, and cultural background.

2. What is the Best Time to Visit Galle?

The best time to visit Galle would be from November to March as it is the winter season, and the weather is dry and pleasant. It is also the high season for tourism in Sri Lanka. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, you can visit Galle during the off-season (May-October), where the prices are comparatively lower.

3. What are the Attractions in Galle?

Galle has a lot of attractions to offer to its visitors. The top attractions are:

a. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has stood the test of time since the 16th century. It is the largest remaining fortress built by Europeans in South Asia and remains the best-preserved example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and Southeast Asia.

b. Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna beach located just 5.5 kilometers southeast of Galle, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. The beach’s wide sands, rocky headlands and calm waters create a picture-perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling and diving.

c. Tsunami Museum

The Tsunami Museum, located in Telwatta, highlights the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which hit Sri Lanka hard, killing over 35,000 people. The museum features powerful, thought-provoking exhibits and photos that create a solemn but respectful memorial to those who lost their lives in the disaster.

d. Dutch Reformed Church

Dutch Reformed Church located within the Galle Fort is a historic church built by the Dutch in 1755. The church is dedicated to St. Mary, and it’s architecture is a great example of Dutch colonial style.

4. Is it Possible to Explore Galle in One Day?

Yes. It is possible to explore Galle in one day. But it depends on the places you want to visit, and the time you have at your disposal. Most travelers prefer dedicating at least two days in Galle to visit all the top attractions it has to offer. Visiting the Galle fort takes at least two hours, and it would take an additional 3-4 hours to visit other major tourist attractions.

5. How to Reach Galle?

Galle is well-connected to other parts of the country by road and train.

a. By Road:

You can take a taxi from Colombo to Galle, which takes approximately 2-3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Colombo to Galle, which is much cheaper but takes 3-4 hours.

b. By Train:

The train journey from Colombo to Galle takes approximately 3-4 hours and is considered to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.

6. What are the Accommodation Options in Galle?

Galle has a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget homestays and guesthouses. The Fort area, which is the city’s most popular location, has a mix of colonial, modern and boutique hotels, while the Unawatuna beach area has some of the beautiful beach resorts.

7. What are the Local Foods to Try in Galle?

Galle is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, such as prawn curry, fish ambul thiyal, cuttlefish curry, and kottu roti. Besides that, you can also try other authentic Sri Lankan dishes such as rice and curry, hoppers, and string hoppers.

8. Is Galle Safe to Visit?

Yes, Galle is safe to visit. Sri Lanka has taken drastic measures over the years to ensure the safety of tourists following the civil war which ended in 2009. The city has a low crime rate and a friendly community. However, it is always recommended to be careful with your belongings and explore the city during the daylight.

9. What to Pack for a Trip to Galle?

While packing for Galle, make sure you pack sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and light and breathable clothes as it gets hot and humid. Additionally, pack comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and a bathing suit as there are some beautiful beaches in Galle.

10. What are the Customs and Etiquettes to Follow in Galle?

Sri Lankan culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism, so it is essential to be respectful towards the religion and the local culture. When visiting the temples, dress modestly, take your shoes off before entering, and avoid taking photographs where it is not allowed. Additionally, Sri Lankans greet each other by folding hands in prayer position, and it is advisable to follow the same practice when interacting with locals. In conclusion, Galle is a beautiful city that offers a unique experience to travelers. From historic buildings to gorgeous beaches, there is something for everyone here. With proper planning and research, one can have a memorable trip to Galle.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Galle

If you are traveling to Sri Lanka, visiting Galle is a must. It is a beautiful city in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its colonial architecture, stunning lighthouse, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort. In this guide, we will discuss how you can spend your time as a tourist in Galle.

1. Visit the Galle Fort

The Galle Fort is a must-see attraction in Galle. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch. The fortified city is a testament to the architectural and engineering skills of the time. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a major tourist attraction in Galle. The Fort is home to several museums, shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can spend hours exploring the Fort, walking along the streets lined with colonial-era buildings, and enjoying the beautiful sea views from the ramparts. You can also take a guided tour of the Fort to learn more about its history and architecture.

2. Visit the Old Dutch Hospital

The Old Dutch Hospital is another must-visit attraction in Galle. It is an 18th-century building that was once used as a hospital by the Dutch. It has now been converted into a shopping and dining complex, housing several shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can spend a few hours here, shopping for souvenirs, enjoying a cup of coffee, or trying out some delicious Sri Lankan food. The Old Dutch Hospital is also a great spot to take some Instagram-worthy photos.

3. Go on a Whale Watching Tour in Mirissa

Mirissa is a small fishing village located close to Galle. It is famous for its whale watching tours, and you can easily book a tour from Galle. The tour usually lasts for about 3-4 hours and takes you out to the sea to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Make sure to book your tour with a reputable tour operator and follow all safety guidelines. The best time to go whale watching in Mirissa is from December to April.

4. Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Peace Pagoda is located in Rumassala, a small hill located close to Galle. It is a white stupa that was built by a Japanese Buddhist monk in the 1970s as a symbol of peace. The Pagoda offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a great spot to relax and meditate. You can take a tuk-tuk or hike to the Pagoda, and it is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.

5. Visit the Galle Lighthouse

The Galle Lighthouse is an iconic landmark in Galle. It was built by the British in the 19th century and is still in operation today. It is located on the ramparts of the Galle Fort and offers stunning views of the sea and the city. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of Galle, and also learn about its history and operation.

6. Swim and Sunbathe at Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna is a small beach town located close to Galle. It is famous for its pristine beaches, coconut trees, and crystal clear waters. You can spend a day at Unawatuna beach, swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are several beachside cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines and swim only in designated areas.

7. Take a Cooking Class

Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique spices. You can take a cooking class in Galle to learn how to cook some authentic Sri Lankan dishes. The classes are usually conducted by locals, who will teach you how to cook using local ingredients and spices. You can also visit the local markets with your instructor to learn about the different spices and ingredients used in Sri Lankan cuisine.

Book Your Tour Now

Galle is a beautiful city in Sri Lanka that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, there is plenty to see and do in Galle. We hope this guide has given you some ideas on how to spend your time as a tourist in Galle. Remember to follow all safety guidelines and respect local customs and traditions.