Galle, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is a charming and historical city with a lot to offer to its visitors. With its stunning beaches, colonial charm and rich cultural heritage, it is no surprise that Galle is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just looking to relax and enjoy some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, Galle has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll show you the best attractions and things to do in Galle to help you make the most out of your trip to this beautiful city.

The 4 Best Unusual Things To Do In Galle

1. Tangalle Sightseeing Tour
2. Visit Sigiriya Dambulla and Kandy 2 Days All Inclusive
3. Private Day Trip Handungoda and Galle from Weligama
4. Private Custom Colombo City Tour

The 4 Best Unusual Things To Do In Galle

1. Tangalle Sightseeing Tour

Get acquainted with Tangalle’s sights with a convenient private half-day tour. This is an ideal introduction to the town, covering attractions that can be tricky to pull together in a DIY outing. You will begin by visiting the Mulkiligara Raja Maha Vihara Buddhist temple, where you will see the giant Buddha and statues depicting hell at Wewurukannala temple. After that, you will relax at Hiriketiya Beach, watch the sea gush at the Hummunaya Blowhole, and finally, explore a spice garden – all without worrying about transport, navigation, or tickets, because all of these are prearranged for you. You will cover Tangalle’s top and less-known sights in one easy private half-day tour. This tour is both easy and enlightening, as you will explore by private car with a driver-guide. You will have a choice of time slots and pickup and drop-off from the wider Tangalle area. The tour includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, use of snorkeling equipment, rental fees of surfboards, and fees of surf lessons.

2. Visit Sigiriya Dambulla and Kandy 2 Days All Inclusive

This 2-day all-inclusive tour takes you to three of Sri Lanka’s most historic and cultural sites – Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy. On the first day, you will explore the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya and the Golden Temple of Dambulla, featuring magnificent cave temples with over 150 statues of the Buddha. On the second day, you will visit the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a Kandy city tour.

The tour includes one night of accommodation, air-conditioned transportation, all meals, and liquor. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel are also included, with multiple pickup points available. The tour is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time will result in no refund. With all the details taken care of, simply sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka on this comprehensive tour.

3. Private Day Trip Handungoda and Galle from Weligama

Explore two top destinations of Sri Lanka on this Private Day Trip to Handugoda and Galle Fort from Weligama. After a convenient pick-up from your hotel, you will first visit the famous Handunugoda Tea Estate where you will learn the process of producing tea and get to taste some of the finest tea in the world. After that, you will head towards the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort which has been standing since the 16th century. During the tour of the fort, your knowledgeable guide will share stories about its history and architecture.

This private tour includes door-to-door transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and service of an English speaking driver-guide. Admission tickets and meals are not included in the tour, so you will have the flexibility to explore at your own pace and only pay for what you really want to do.

Participants should note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible and only limited public transportation are available in the tour areas. However, this tour is suitable for most travelers. It is also important to note that this is a private activity, so you and your group will have exclusive use of the vehicle and guide.

If you need to cancel the tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Come and experience two of Sri Lanka’s top attractions with this handpicked private tour.

4. Private Custom Colombo City Tour

Discover the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka on a fascinating private 6-hour Colombo city tour. With the help of your own chauffeur-guide, travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle to all the top attractions of the city. Admire the stunning Indian Ocean views from Galle Face and explore the bustling Pettah Market. Visit the National Museum and the Gangarama Temple, and indulge in Sri Lankan cuisine at a local restaurant. You can customize the itinerary according to your preferences to ensure that you see the sights that interest you the most. With insider tips from your guide, you’ll also get a chance to explore hidden gems often overlooked by tourists. Book now and experience the best of Colombo on this private tour.

Frequently Asked Questions About Galle

If you’re planning a trip to Galle, Sri Lanka, you’re likely to have several questions about the city. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Galle to help you plan your trip better:

1. What are the top tourist attractions in Galle?

Galle is home to several tourist attractions, and some of the most famous ones include:

a. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Galle, Sri Lanka. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and then later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century.Pro tip: Don’t miss out on taking a sunset stroll on the fort walls.

b. Japanese Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a unique Buddhist temple that was built as a symbol of peace in the world. The Pagoda offers stunning views of the Galle harbor and the Indian Ocean.Pro tip: Plan your visit during the sunset to witness an incredible view of the ocean and the sky.

c. Dutch Reformed Church

The Dutch Reformed Church was built by the Dutch in the 18th century and is located within the Galle Fort. The church is still actively used for worship, and visitors are allowed to attend Sunday services.Pro tip: Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the church and the fort.Other tourist attractions in and around Galle include the National Maritime Museum, Galle Lighthouse, and Unawatuna Beach.

2. How do I get to Galle?

Galle is located approximately 120 kilometers south of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. Here are some ways to get to Galle:

a. By Car

One of the most convenient ways to get to Galle is to hire a car with a driver. It takes around 2-3 hours to reach Galle from Colombo, depending on the traffic.Pro tip: Book your transport in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

b. By Train

The train journey from Colombo to Galle is equally scenic and one of the most affordable ways to travel in Sri Lanka. The train ride takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train.Pro tip: You can book your train tickets online on the Sri Lankan Railways website.

3. What is the best time to visit Galle?

The best time to visit Galle is between December to March when the weather is dry and sunny. The temperature during this time ranges from 27-30 degrees Celsius.Pro tip: Visit Galle during the Galle Literary Festival held every year in January, and you can experience a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

4. What should I wear while visiting Galle?

Sri Lanka is a conservative country, and it is recommended to dress modestly while visiting the city. It is advisable to cover your shoulders and knees while visiting religious sites.Pro tip: Pack light cotton clothes and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

5. What are the best places to stay in Galle?

Galle has accommodation options to fit every budget, and some popular ones include:

a. Galle Fort Hotel

Galle Fort Hotel is located within the Galle Fort and offers luxurious rooms and suites.

b. Tamarind Hill by Asia Leisure

Tamarind Hill is situated in a 250-year-old mansion and offers elegant rooms and suites.

c. Jetwing Lighthouse

Jetwing Lighthouse is a luxurious resort located overlooking the Galle beach and Lighthouse.Pro tip: Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.

6. What is the local currency of Galle?

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is recommended to carry cash, especially when visiting local markets and food stalls.Pro tip: Exchange your currency at authorized exchange bureaus to avoid any scams or frauds.

7. Where can I buy souvenirs in Galle?

Some of the best places to buy souvenirs in Galle include:

a. Barefoot

Barefoot is an iconic Sri Lankan handicrafts store located within the Galle Fort.

b. Laksala

Laksala is a government-run handicrafts store located within the city. It offers a wide range of Sri Lankan souvenirs and crafts.

c. Stick No Bills

Stick No Bills is a creative design company that sells posters, postcards, and prints of Sri Lankan illustrations.Pro tip: Bargaining is common in local markets, but be respectful when negotiating.In conclusion, Galle is a city that perfectly blends its colonial heritage with its natural beauty. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Galle

Galle, located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka, is a captivating city with a rich history and vibrant culture. There are many things to do and see in Galle, which can make it overwhelming for tourists to decide on what to prioritize. In this guide, we will share some of the top activities and attractions in Galle, and provide you with a suggested itinerary for a day or two in the city.

Attractions in Galle

Galle Fort

The Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Galle. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. The fort has a rich history and is an excellent example of colonial architecture.Inside the fort, you can explore the narrow streets filled with boutique shops, cafes, art galleries, and museums. You can also take a stroll along the fort walls and enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

National Maritime Archaeology Museum

The National Maritime Archaeology Museum is another exciting attraction in Galle. It is located inside the Old Dutch Warehouses, which were used by the Dutch to store spices and other goods during the 17th century.Inside the museum, you can see a collection of maritime artifacts, including shipwrecks, weapons, and navigational instruments. You can also learn about the ancient trade routes and the impact of maritime exploration on Sri Lanka.

Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, located just a few kilometers away from Galle. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports such as snorkeling and diving.There are several beachside cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious seafood and tropical drinks while soaking in the beautiful views of the ocean.

Suggested Itinerary

Here is a suggested itinerary for spending a day or two in Galle:

Day 1

– Start your day with a visit to the Galle Fort. Spend a few hours exploring the fort, walking along the walls, and enjoying the stunning ocean views.- Take a break for lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants inside the fort. Try some local Sri Lankan dishes such as Kottu Roti, Fish Curry, or Hoppers.- In the afternoon, head to the National Maritime Archaeology Museum to learn about Sri Lanka’s maritime history.- End your day with a visit to Unawatuna Beach. Spend the evening enjoying the sunset, swimming, and dining at one of the beachside restaurants.

Day 2

– Start your day with a morning yoga session at one of the many yoga studios in Galle.- Head to the Handunugoda Tea Estate for a tea tasting session and a tour of the tea gardens. Learn about the tea-making process and enjoy some of the finest teas in Sri Lanka.- Take a break for lunch at the tea estate’s restaurant and enjoy some local Sri Lankan dishes with a cup of tea.- In the afternoon, visit the Koggala Lake and take a boat tour to see the Cinnamon Island and the Bird Sanctuary.- End your day with a relaxing massage at one of the many spas in Galle.

Book Your Tour Now

Galle is a beautiful city with many exciting attractions and activities. Whether you want to explore the rich history of the Galle Fort, soak in the sun on Unawatuna Beach, or indulge in some yoga and spa sessions, there is something for everyone in Galle. Use this guide to plan your trip and maximize your time in the city.