Top Things To Do In Galle Sri Lanka – Coastal Heritage City

The coastal city's most iconic attraction is the Old Dutch Fort. Built by the Portuguese colonists in the 16th century, the fort was enhanced and used as a stronghold by both the Dutch and the British. A cherished UNESCO World Heritage Site the Galle Fort is well preserved from the cobblestone streets to the old Dutch villas lining the roads. Many tourists choose hotels in Galle located close to the fort since the attraction has many aspects to be enjoyed over a course of days. While some places like Fortress Resort and Spa, located just 26 minutes from the old fort, strive to recreate colonial splendours for guests to enjoy. Here's what to do inside Galle Fort.

The ramparts overlook the Indian Ocean, and it is one of the prettiest sights. Emerald green waters lap at pebble stone beaches, while a vintage lighthouse stands guard at the end. Walk down to the beach from near the lighthouse and you will come to a lovely beach. The water is very shallow there and ideal for a splash. Make sure to hang around the Galle Fort ramparts to catch an amazing sunset before heading back to your Galle hotel.

The Dutch who operated the East India Company had their headquarters based in the Galle Fort. They proceeded to enhance the fort with elegant Dutch architecture. These well preserved relics are yours to explore as you visit the old warehouses, marvel at the tranquil antique villas lining the cobblestone streets and discover the humongous girth of the fort walls, which served as a reserve for spices.

To understand Sri Lanka's maritime history and links to famous explorers, visit the Maritime Museum based within the Old Dutch Fort. The place is a gallery for artefacts taken from shipwrecks along the Galle coastal area. Old coins, parts of old pipes used by sailors, bottles of vintage liquor rescued from sunken ships and plenty of other artefacts make the museum a very interesting browse.

There are a number of historic churches in Galle. Many are located within the Galle Fort. You can visit them on your tour of the fortress and marvel at the period furniture, ancient apparatus, old organs which once played to packed congregations and even savour a touch of vintage nostalgia via mementos placed within the shrines. The Dutch Reformed Church and All Saints Church are a few examples of vintage shrines to explore.

Galle is ideal for holiday shopping. Look for the perfect souvenir or shop for gifts as you scour the many stores located both inside and out of the fort. There's plenty to shop for in Galle. Look for handicrafts, jewellery, artworks and antiques.

Roti with either savoury or sweet fillings is very popular along the southern coast. And in Galle, you have plenty of charming little roti shops to treat the foodie in you. Enjoy the sultry beach vibes at your Galle hotel.