Galle travel guide

About Galle

Galle Fort is a walled old town on the south coast, built by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of colonial houses, churches, galleries and cafés.

The fort is small enough to explore on foot in a few hours, and nearby beaches such as Unawatuna make Galle a relaxing base for a few days on the coast.

Best time to visit

December to April is the dry season on the south coast, with calmer seas for swimming.

How long to stay

A day trip from Colombo, or 1–2 nights to enjoy the fort and the nearby beaches.

Getting there

About 2½ hours by private car from Colombo airport via the Southern Expressway.

Region

South Coast

Things to do in Galle

1. 1

   Walk the fort ramparts

   Follow the old walls around the fort for ocean views, ending at the lighthouse or Flag Rock for sunset.

2. 2

   Explore the old streets

   Wander past the Dutch Reformed Church, old warehouses, boutique shops and cafés inside the walls.

3. 3

   Unawatuna and Jungle Beach

   Calm bays with good swimming and snorkelling in season, just a short drive from the fort.

4. 4

   Japanese Peace Pagoda

   A white stupa on a headland above Unawatuna with views back to Galle.

5. 5

   Stilt fishermen at Koggala

   See the famous stilt fishermen along the coast road towards Koggala, best early in the morning.

Local tips for Galle

• Visit the ramparts in the late afternoon when it is cooler and the light is golden.
• Combine Galle with Mirissa or Unawatuna for a few days on the beach.
• Seas can be rough from May to October, so choose calmer bays for swimming.

Private transfers to Galle

• Colombo Airport to Galle: about 150 km, 2½ hours