Things To Do
in Galle
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.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through its charming streets and enjoy the colonial architecture.
Grab lunch at a local café and explore the maritime museum. Don’t forget to check out the artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
Watch the sunset from the fort's ramparts while enjoying a refreshing coconut drink. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood.
Spend your morning lounging on the beautiful sands of Unawatuna Beach. Take a dip in the warm waters to cool off.
Enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the many restaurants. Try some local cuisine or seafood for a delightful meal.
As night falls, enjoy a beach bonfire and socialize with fellow travelers. Sample local drinks and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with well-preserved colonial architecture.
- Beautiful beaches and coastal views, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
- Vibrant local culture and friendly community.
- Delicious and diverse culinary offerings, including fresh seafood.
- Access to various tourist attractions, such as Galle Fort and surrounding natural reserves.
- Highly touristy, which can lead to crowded areas during peak seasons.
- Infrastructure may be lacking in some areas, leading to transportation challenges.
- Climate can be hot and humid, with a risk of monsoon rains.
- Higher prices in tourist areas compared to local standards.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Galle
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic fort with its ramparts and stunning views of the ocean.
Relax on the beautiful beach, go snorkeling, or take a boat ride.
Hike through the jungle to reach this secluded and picturesque beach.
Take a boat trip to spot majestic whales in the surrounding waters.
Visit historical sites, museums, and local markets in the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Galle with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Galle
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views of the ocean and historic architecture, perfect for photography.
Offers panoramic views of the coastline and lush greenery, providing excellent photo opportunities.
A serene location with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the ocean, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Galle
Galle Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
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.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Galle better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Galle, it is important to show respect for elders through gestures such as addressing them with the appropriate honorifics and offering a polite greeting.
When visiting religious sites or local communities in Galle, it is respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and certain other indoor spaces in Galle as a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Galle with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Galle
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Sri Lanka, including Galle. However, it is a common practice to leave a small tip of around 10% at restaurants and for exceptional service.
In Galle, Sri Lanka, cash is the primary form of payment, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Galle.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Galle with pleasant weather and clear skies. Ideal for exploring the beaches, historic forts, and local attractions.
Expect occasional rain showers and high humidity. May be less crowded, and good for budget travelers. Some outdoor activities may be affected by the rain.
Expect heavy rainfall and rough seas. This is the least favorable time for visiting Galle due to the weather conditions.
Galle at Night
Hiking in Galle
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with trails that offer views of the coastline and the jungle environment. It is also home to diverse flora and fauna.
A UNESCO biosphere reserve featuring lush forests and several hiking paths that lead to stunning waterfalls and rich biodiversity.
An ancient pilgrimage site with hiking trails to ancient ruins, stupas, and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Though primarily known for snorkeling and diving, the pathways around the park offer pleasant walks with beautiful coastal scenery.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site offering numerous hiking opportunities through a biodiverse rainforest, with options for guided treks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Galle through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Galle by plane.
The main international airport serving Sri Lanka, located in Katunayake, approximately 140 km from Galle.
Located in Mattala, about 100 km from Galle, this airport serves as a secondary international airport in Sri Lanka.
Although primarily a military base, it has facilities for international flights and is located near Colombo, about 140 km from Galle.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Galle, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant ethnic minority in Galle, primarily engaged in various occupations.
An important demographic group in Galle, contributing to the cultural and economic aspects of the region.
A small ethnic group with mixed European and Sri Lankan ancestry, historically influential in Galle.
Includes smaller communities such as the Malays and others, contributing to the diversity of Galle.
The Soul of Galle
Discover the essence of Galle through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Galle, with the Galle International Stadium hosting numerous local and international matches.
Rugby has a strong following in Galle, with many clubs and schools promoting the sport among the youth.
Football is widely played in Galle, with various clubs and school teams competing in local leagues.
Volleyball is a common sport in Galle, especially in school tournaments and beach activities.
Athletics events are regularly organized in Galle, encouraging participation among students and local athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Galle.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Galle boasts a plethora of dining options for vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants and cafes providing dedicated plant-based dishes incorporating local flavors and ingredients.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find suitable dining choices in Galle. Several establishments offer gluten-free versions of traditional Sri Lankan dishes and also serve international gluten-free cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Galle with these cultural adventures.
