Joanna James
Situated on the southwest shores of Sri Lanka Galle is a city blessed with wide stretches of beaches, rising waves, and giant whales able to offer days of adventure whilst the lush biodiversity offers rare opportunities to view many species of animals to leave lasting memories etched in your mind.
It is a rare sight to experience the largest mammal on earth, the blue whale which is possible on your visit to Galle. Setting sail from Mirissa, which is less than an hour’s drive from Galle, the whale watching tours take you towards their natural habitat in the southern waters of the island. Considered to be one of the most unique things to do in Galle Sri Lanka, you will be able to witness blue whales, sperm whales, pilot whales and fin whales and even different species of dolphins. Setting off from the coast at sunrise, along with experienced guides to share insights about their behaviour you can enjoy a pleasant morning viewing these aquatic creatures and the beauty of the coastal landscape while the light refreshments served will keep you sated and hydrated.
This park is renowned for having the highest leopard density in the world and therefore is a popular attraction for visitors to Sri Lanka. In addition to these predators, bears in numbers, scampering deer, and herds of majestic elephants roam the jungles of Yala, Scampering dear and peacocks preening with their pretty plumage are pleasant diversions if you take a Yala Safari package. Picking you up from the hotel at dawn, the package will cover the entire safari and lunch at a restaurant.
Madu River is an estuary that flows across the Balapitiya area about an hour’s drive from Galle. A safari on this wide river is an activity which is fascinating taking you through various mangroves on a scenic and soothing journey on a huge expanse of water. There are many little islands dotted around the Madu River which are mostly uninhabited. However, you can visit the inhabited Cinnamon Isle also referred to as Kurundu Duwa in the local language to experience the 02-acre Cinnamon plantation managed by a family and pick up a few of their cinnamon products too. Another unusual experience enjoyed by many visitors from The Fortress Resort & Spa on this safari is the natural Fish Spa Therapy or foot massage from scores of Doctor Fish.
Try this great cycling tour to get a feel of the local vibes and experience the simple way of living as well as the rich biodiversity around Galle. This tour of approximately 12 km covered in 03 hours is on off-the-road tracks permitting you to pedal away at your pace. Go past pretty lagoons, mangroves and swaying coconut palms. Meet locals and have a peek into local industries such as rope making and crab catching. Refresh yourselves with coconut water at a coconut factory. Visit a serene Buddhist Temple dating back to the 18th century, this will be an insightful tour which you can do in the morning or afternoon.
Blessed with a rich array of fauna and flora, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site which keeps attracting visitors to Galle. Join a tour with a private guide to learn about the special features of the rainforest and seek varieties of fauna and flora including those found only in Sri Lanka. You can also be tempted to have a dip in the streams along the way to ward off the heat. A fascinating experience on your visit to Galle.
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.
