Galle, a city on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, is famous for its fascinating history, pristine beaches, and magnificent architecture. Many historic sites and buildings from the colonial era can be found there, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The top attractions in Galle will be included in this travel guide.
Things to Do In Galle
Visit the Galle Fort
The Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historical landmark. The fort was constructed in the 16th century by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch; it is a unique combination of European and South Asian design. In addition, it has many museums, galleries, and speciality stores.
Relax on the Beaches
Unawatuna Beach, Jungle Beach, and Dalawella Beach are just a few of Galle’s stunning beaches. Swimming, surfing, and sunbathing are all excellent activities on these beaches.
Unawatuna Beach
Unawatuna Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Galle. This fabulous beach is famous for its stunning sunsets, beautiful oceans, and golden sand. It’s an excellent place for swimming, sunbathing, and aquatic activities, including surfing, diving, and snorkelling. Many cafes and bars serving local and ethnic cuisine surround Unawatuna beach. It’s an excellent spot for relaxing with a tasty drink and incredible views.
The beach is home to a tiny coral reef and various sea species, including colourful fishes and sea turtles. Unawatuna beach is also an excellent place to begin exploring the surroundings for those seeking a more active experience. Local temples and villages may be visited, as well as boat rides to observe dolphins and whales. In general, Unawatuna beach is a must-see location for visitors to Galle.
Jungle Beach
Jungle Beach is a secluded and beautiful beach just a few kilometres from Galle. Walking through the trees in a lush tropical jungle can reach this hidden place. The beach is relatively tiny, but it has a peaceful atmosphere and calm waters, and because of the fantastic surroundings, it draws people searching for a quiet getaway. The beach is surrounded by a dense forest, which provides a unique and natural backdrop to the crystal-clear waters of the ocean.
An excellent place for snorkelling and diving lovers, Jungle Beach is also home to various marine life, including fishes and sea turtles. Along the beach are several little cafes and bars serving delightful local and foreign dishes and casual drinks. In addition, the beach is an excellent location for hikers and environment enthusiasts because various nature trails provide beautiful views of the jungle surroundings. Jungle Beach is a must-visit location for everyone travelling to Galle looking for a quiet, peaceful beach experience in stunning natural surroundings.
Dalawella Beach
Dalawella Beach is a beautiful, peaceful stretch of coastline located a few kilometres south of Galle. It is a popular location for snorkelling, diving, and surfing. Also, this beach is well-known for its calming waters, white sand, and excellent rope swing made from a palm tree, which has grown in popularity as a tourist attraction. It is an ideal relaxing spot because of its quiet and peaceful condition. Swimming is perfect in the beautiful turquoise waters. Many little cafes near the beach offer tasty local and ethnic cuisine and energizing drinks and snacks.
The area around the beach is also famous for its gorgeous visuals, with lush green trees and fantastic ocean views. Photographers frequently visit Dalawella Beach because the natural beauty makes for the ideal backdrop for beautiful pictures. For anyone visiting Galle and seeking a calm and pleasant beach experience amid stunning naturalistic environments, Dalawella Beach is a must-visit location.
Explore the Dutch Reformed Church
One of the ancient Protestant churches in Sri Lanka, the Dutch Reformed Church in Galle, is a historic landmark founded in 1640. For people interested in architecture and history, the church is a must-visit location because of its stunning interior, which includes a wooden pulpit and a sizable pipe organ.
Take a Stroll Along the Galle Lighthouse
Every visitor to the city should take a stroll along the Galle Lighthouse. This ancient lighthouse is located on the fort’s southern tip and offers superb fantastic views of the Indian Ocean and its surrounding area. The lighthouse, constructed in 1939 and 26 meters tall, offered a stunning sight that could be seen for miles.
The walk to the lighthouse is peaceful and beautiful, with well-kept pathways and lush green trees offering the sun’s natural shelter. When reaching the lighthouse, visitors can ascend to the top for stunning views of the sea and the fort.
Also, the lighthouse is a well-liked location for photographers, who may get beautiful images of the surrounding landscape. The best approach to appreciate the city’s natural beauty and fascinating history is to stroll around the Galle Lighthouse.
Visit the Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum in Galle is a must-visit attraction for those interested in maritime history. Located within the Galle Fort, the museum houses exhibits that showcase the city’s past as an important trading port. Visitors can explore galleries filled with ancient artefacts, navigational tools, and models of historic ships. One fascinating exhibit is the section dedicated to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The museum also has an extensive collection of historical pictures and maps. The Maritime Museum offers an engaging and educational experience that glimpses Galle’s rich history and culture.
Take a Trip to Mirissa
Mirissa is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Galle looking for a scenic and peaceful day trip. It is a charming coastal town located a short distance from Galle. The city is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent whale-watching opportunities. Visitors can explore the town’s quaint streets, relax on the beach, and embark on a whale-watching excursion in Mirissa.
Conclusion
Galle is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Sri Lanka. With its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches, the city offers many experiences for visitors of all interests. Whether interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Galle has something for everyone. So don’t forget to add Galle to your next trip to Sri Lanka. Surabi Lanka is here to plan your travel experience.
