Galle

Galle is a beautiful city in Sri Lanka that is on the southern coast which brings together the colonial history and seaside beauty.

As a matter of fact, Galle is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. That lets visitors to experience the country’s culture through the historic buildings and natural aspects.

However, it is not going to be easy if you are planning on exploring this city on your own. As you will find less tourist attraction spots.

Therefore, we wrote this article to guide you throughout the way to get the best experience during your stay in Galle.

So here are ten places that you need to see to collect some amazing memories for yourself.

Galle Dutch Fort

The Galle Dutch Fort is the main city attraction in Galle.

When talking about the history, the Portuguese built it in the period of 16th century, and the Dutch made it stronger in the 17th century.

The fort covers 130 acres, and what’s interesting is that the walls in there will give you some beautiful views of the Indian Ocean and the town below.

Usually, people love to walk on the fort walls at sunset as the vibe during that time is unbelievable.

Inside the fort, you’ll find streets with Dutch colonial houses, old churches, and cafes that are always running on busy schedules.

Note: People still live and work in the fort as of now by making it feel real and lived-in rather than just a tourist spot.

Galle Lighthouse

The white Galle Lighthouse is a popular area at the fort’s southern end.

It’s the oldest lighthouse in Sri Lanka and many people take photos by using it as a background image to share those on social media.

Did you know?

This lighthouse was built in 1939 after the first one burned down in 1934.

However, the Galle Lighthouse is 26 meters tall. And operates as a help to the ships to find their way to the harbor.

Due to it’s height, the lighthouse gives you some of the best views in Galle.

Reason to become a popular spot: The white tower looks beautiful against the blue ocean, especially at sunrise and sunset. 

Dutch Reformed Church

The Dutch Reformed Church, also known as the Groote Kerk, is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest Protestant churches.

This church was built in 1640, where it has the Dutch building style with a European church design. This is because, back in the 1600s, this area was ruled by non-Sri Lankans.

When it comes to the structure, the floor has a touch of gravestones from old Dutch cemeteries. And the walls got a memorial plaques and symbols of Dutch governors.

Since this church is so much old, you can get the opportunity to see an organ from 1760 and original Dutch furniture which are quite rare nowadays to even see.

Anyway, weekly services are still taking place in here. And visitors can come inside to look around of this amazing church.

In addition to that, the garden outside of it has old trees and weathered tombstones. That creates a vintage vibe that is not possible to express in words.

Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre

The Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre shows how Galle works to protect the wildlife, specifically the sea turtles.

You’ll find it on the coastal road. Where it helps to protect Sri Lanka’s sea turtles which are at risk of their growth.

Some even say that this place is an educational spot. As the visitors gets the opportunity to learn about different kinds of turtles. As in how they nest, and what problems they face.

Over here, the centre protects all the turtle eggs from people who might steal those and from animals that might eat.

As a matter of fact, they release the baby turtles into the ocean when they’re ready.

So if you visit at the right time, you might get the chance to help those baby turtles to release into the ocean.

In addition to that, they also take care of hurt turtles until they can go back to the ocean.

Which means, that this place teaches people about protecting sea life while supporting the local environmental work.

National Museum Galle

The National Museum Galle is in the fort’s oldest Dutch building.

It shows you quite the items from the region’s past. Including traditional Sri Lankan work of art, and things that were found by archaeologists back in time.

Once you are there, you can even see old maps, traditional masks, colonial furniture, and archaeological discoveries that were made to bring up some theories.

Actually, the museum explains the Galle’s history as a shipping port and how different colonial powers changed the region.

Note: The building itself was built in the Dutch colonial style, which brings out the historical experience to the world.

Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum is located in an old Dutch warehouse from 1671.

It tells the story of Galle’s shipping history and its importance as an old port city.

Once you are there, you will get the opportunity to see items that are recovered from sunken ships around the coast. Including ship models, maps, naval crafts, and underwater discoveries.

Moreover, the museum shows how Galle was important for trade routes. And how colonial powers have made major changes to the shipping in the region.

Note: This is an opportunity actually, where you can learn about traditional fishing, ocean life, and how the 2004 tsunami affected the area. Even though the building was fixed after the tsunami damaged it by making it a symbol of recovery and maintenance.

Old Dutch Hospital

The Old Dutch Hospital ranks among the oldest buildings in Galle Fort.

It’s been carefully restored and now the daily working routes are taking on in shops and restaurants.

As it was built in the 1600s for Dutch sailors and officials. It keeps its colonial look while serving the needed purposes.

When it comes to the structure of the Old Dutch Hospital. The building has wide porches, big teak beams, and tall ceilings that helps to keep it cool in hot weather.

So, what is the use of this place and what you can get by visiting there?

Well, people eat and relax in the middle courtyard, and the upper floor lets you see the fort and harbour.

As a matter of fact, this building shows how old structures can be so much useful while serving today’s needs.

Japanese Peace Pagoda – Rumassala

The Japanese Peace Pagoda is on Rumassala Hill which shows a quiet break from the busy fort area.

Actually, the story behind this place is quite interesting.

Japanese Buddhist monks built this temple in 2004 to represent peace between all races and religions.

From up here, you can see the coast, Galle harbour, and surrounding forest which allows you to see the natural greenery image.

The pagoda temple has Buddha statues and places for meditation.

Which means, that this temple allows you to relax your mind and free away any thoughts that keeps on troubling you.

Remember that walking up through the forest path takes some effort but allows you to enjoy some views of local plants and animals. 

Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna Beach is just a few kilometres from Galle Fort.

Here is an interesting fact: A Coral reef protects this amazing beach by making the water calm for swimming and snorkelling.

Restaurants, guest houses, and shops are along the beach where you can help yourself out by allowing you to have a relaxed feeling.

At Unawatuna Beach, you can do water sports, like diving, snorkelling, and surfing, when the weather conditions are good.

Note: At night, beach restaurants serves fresh seafood and local food if you like to try. 

Galle International Cricket Stadium

The Galle International Cricket Stadium is famous among the world’s most beautiful cricket grounds.

This is because of the Dutch Fort and the Indian Ocean are right behind it.

When going back in time, It started as a horse racing track in 1876 and became a cricket stadium in 1892.

Even though the 2004 tsunami damaged it in a pretty bad way, it was rebuilt and still hosts international cricket matches with the best facilities.

The stadium looks particularly lovely at sunset when the fort walls cast shadows on the field.

As a matter of fact, this place shows how important cricket is to Sri Lankan cricket fans and as of now, even tourists find this stadium as an attraction spot to get a wonderful view.

Conclusion

There you go, Galle is a city that has the opportunity to show off Sri Lanka’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Each place, from the Dutch Fort to Galle International Cricket Stadium, tells its own story while adding to what makes Galle special.

So, dont you agree that the list of these buildings, religious places, natural sites, and modern attractions makes Galle perfect for all kinds of travellers?

Well, it’s true, so without thinking about it any further, visit this beautiful city to collect some memories for your travel journey that will make you want to come back.