Joanna James
There's simply something about this UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts and captivates, be it the narrow, bustling laneways and crumbling colonial antiquities, the constant aroma of exotic spices, or the magnificent tropical backdrop. Today, Galle is a true melting pot of modernity & antiquity!
Postcard-perfect and surrounded by palms, the Galle Lighthouse is the most recognisable landmark of the Galle Fort and a must-see for any visitor. The current construction of this stunning white lighthouse, which stands on the ramparts of the historic Galle Fort, was completed in 1939. It has been standing there since 1848, guiding ships into the safe harbour of Galle.
The lighthouse remains in active service, but it also serves a secondary purpose as a backdrop for tourists seeking the quintessential Sri Lankan experience.
Galle Fort's coral-mixed walls and ramparts, if they could talk, would have many tales to talk about the fort's long and eventful history. If you want to see everything that Galle Fort has to offer, take the "Fort Walk" from the medieval Clock Tower, through the Main Gate, through the Dutch Reform Church, and out to the western quarter, where you'll find the renovated Dutch Hospital.
You can watch locals play cricket, dine at the many delicious street food stalls, and cool yourself in any of the numerous bars located within the fort as you make your way through. The sun in Galle is notoriously harsh, therefore it's preferable to do the trek either very early in the day or in the late afternoon when temperatures are more bearable.
Galle Fort's winding alleyways and Dutch colonial-style buildings make getting lost in the historic district a must during your visit.
Thanks to the sturdy construction of the Fort's outer wall, many of the area's historic structures from the old colonial periods were spared destruction in the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. It's normal to feel like you've stepped into the cobblestone streets of Europe when you're here.
Just like the fort, there is a range of Galle tourist places that can be visited during your stay. If you choose to stay at a location like KK Beach, then you've set yourself up for success, simply ask the staff to help make an itinerary of places to visit nearby.
At about 5:30 p.m. daily, both locals and visitors may be found along the fort's walls to take in the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the ocean. A cricket match is being played on the field nearby, entire families have gathered to watch the sunset, and travellers are mingling and laughing as they watch the sky turn brilliant colours.
Keep an eye out for the daredevils that jump off Flag Rock every night, as a group of locals take the plunge into the water below by running backwards off the cliff.
Shopping opportunities abound in Galle Fort, especially Pedlar St serving as the hub of the district's many boutiques, gem shops, and handicraft stalls. If you're searching for a good deal, this is the ideal area to do your shopping inside the ramparts of Galle Fort.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
