Joanna James
The city of Galle is and has been a significant location in Sri Lanka. The Galle Port was a strategic trading port in the Indian Ocean for over 2 centuries. Galle was a stronghold during the Portuguese and Dutch Colonial era of the island and is a UNESCO World Heritage site with many ancient well-preserved buildings, mansions, museums trendy cafes etc. within the Galle Fort area. Find the different options available to get around Galle to witness these attractions.
One of the significant districts out of the 25 districts on the southwest of the island Galle has a rich history, an incredible coastline lined with palm trees and the iconic Galle Fort a focal point of attraction for most visitors.
Visiting this quintessential fortress with its multitude of well-preserved buildings, some of which are trendy cafes and boutiques, places of worship, and awesome spa facilities is considered one of the unique things to do in Galle. Although the Galle Fort offers much to see and do there is an abundance of other attractions that visitors like to experience.
Getting about in Galle is best done by taxi (Uber, PickMe or other metered taxis) and shorter rides on Tuk-tuk. As some tuk-tuks don’t have meters always pre-agree on the rate.
This fortified city was founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century and was expanded and fortified further by the Dutch later when they used the harbour as a trading port. This area functioned as a normal city with homes, offices, other establishments, and places of worship.
Getting to Galle Fort is convenient from hotels around the area such as KK Beach Galle using a taxi service (or tuk-tuk service) and is a ride of less than 30 minutes.
The entire fortified area is an automobile-free zone, and everything can be explored on foot. With narrow cobbled streets in most parts, the streets are lined with well-preserved buildings now serving as cafes, shops, exclusive spas, boutiques, galleries etc. A visit here can last a full and enriching day with much to see and do like explore the area enjoy tropical sundaes, exotic dishes, shop, relax in a spa etc. When the sun goes down explore the lighthouse, walk on the ramparts that weave their way around the beautiful coastline, and be awed by the breathtaking view from up there. The day will be well remembered as you go back to your hotel by taxi or tuk-tuk.
One of the most sought-after beaches in Sri Lanka, Unawatuna Beach is about 8 km South of Galle city. It attracts all kinds of visitors such as couples, families, friends, and many intrepid travellers looking for adventure and excitement as they explore Sri Lanka.
Getting to Unawatuna is best done using a tuk-tuk ride from your hotel. The broad bay at Unawatuna has the endearing shape of a banana and silky soft golden sand making it a sheer pleasure to walk on this beach. The warm shallow waters fanned by lush palms invite one to have a soothing dip. Take your fill of this golden beach and enjoy a sumptuous seafood meal at one of the many restaurants,
Situated on the border of Koggala town this hatchery has been in operation for nearly 3 decades. Situated 21 km from Galle, this hatchery can be reached by taxi in less than 45 minutes.
It functions as a farm, a hatchery, and a care centre for blinded, wounded, and crippled turtles. The entrance fee to the hatchery contributes towards the welfare of these endangered creatures. Visiting this hatchery can be a profound learning experience for many visitors and is an insightful one for children.
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