Galle,Sri Lanka
Galle, located in the southwest of Sri Lanka, is a charming coastal city known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture. The iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features narrow streets lined with boutique shops, galleries, and cafes. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the Galle Lighthouse and Dutch Reformed Church.
The city also boasts beautiful beaches, with opportunities for swimming, surfing, and relaxing by the sea.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Ayubowan (ආයුබෝවන්)" - May you live long
- "Malli (මල්ලි)" - Younger brother
- "Akka (අක්කා)" - Elder sister
- "Istuti (ස්තුටි)" - Thank you
- "Bohoma istuti (බොහොම ස්තුටි)" - Thank you very much
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Galle Fort
morning:Start your day with a visit to the iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the ocean. Don't forget to fuel up for the day with a delicious breakfast at Pedlar's Inn Cafe.
afternoon:In the afternoon, wander through the narrow streets of the fort, exploring charming boutiques and art galleries. Indulge in a delightful lunch at the heritage Dutch Hospital complex.
evening:As the sun sets, head to The Fort Printers for a sophisticated dining experience. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the fort walls for breathtaking sunset vistas followed by a fun night-out at the lively Exo Bar.
Beach Day & Seafood Delights
morning:Spend the morning at the beautiful Unawatuna Beach, known for its tranquil waters and golden sands. Kick start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at the tranquil Wijaya Beach Restaurant.
afternoon:Enjoy water sports or simply relax on the beach. For lunch, feast on delectable seafood at the iconic Kingfisher restaurant overlooking the stunning bay.
evening:As evening approaches, head to the lively Jungle Beach for a beachfront seafood dinner with mesmerizing ocean views.
Culture & Cuisine Exploration
morning:Embark on a cultural tour to learn about traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts and witness local artisans at work. Indulge in a flavorful breakfast at Poonie's Kitchen.
afternoon:Visit the Historical Mansion Museum for a glimpse into colonial-era life. Savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Lucky Fort Restaurant for lunch.
evening:Dine at the enchanting AQUA Fort with its serene ambiance and lagoon views, followed by a visit to heritage Rampart Street for an evening stroll amidst the colonial architecture.
Nature Retreat & Herbal Infusions
morning:Spend the morning exploring the lush landscapes and exotic flora of Hiyare Rainforest. Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the tranquil Bedspace Kitchen.
afternoon:Discover the healing powers of herbs at the famous Ayurvedic Apothecary and indulge in a rejuvenating lunch infused with local herbs and spices at the Apothecary Cafe.
evening:Experience the magic of a traditional Sri Lankan herbal tea ceremony amidst the serene surroundings of the rainforest at the Apothecary, where you can also sample delightful herbal infusions.
Galle Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Fish Ambul Thiyal
A tangy fish curry made with locally sourced fish, infused with goraka (Malabar tamarind), and a blend of spices. It's a must-try for seafood lovers. Find authentic Fish Ambul Thiyal at Wijaya Beach Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, egg, and a choice of chicken, beef, or seafood, all stir-fried with spices on a hot griddle. Enjoy delicious Kottu Roti at Lucky Fort Restaurant.
Hoppers
These bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk are a breakfast staple. They come in sweet or savory varieties and can be found at the local stalls or at Poonie's Kitchen.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Galle Fort Food Street
Located within the Galle Fort, this bustling street is lined with food stalls offering a variety of local delights, from savory snacks like samosas and vadais to sweet treats like pani walalu (treacle-coated treats). Perfect for sampling a range of street food in one location.
Galle Market
A vibrant market showcasing the region's fresh produce, seafood, and spices. You can explore local fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and witness the vibrant trade that drives Galle's food scene.
Things to do in Galle
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Galle
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!