Galle is a coastal city in the southwest of Sri Lanka, famous for its historic Galle Fort. The fort was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. Its strong stone walls surround narrow, car-free streets filled with buildings that show Portuguese, Dutch, and British influence. One of the main landmarks is the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church. The Galle Lighthouse stands at the southeastern edge of the fort, offering scenic views.
The Old Gate, the original entrance to the fort, still shows the symbol of the Dutch East India Company. Inside, you’ll find the National Maritime Museum, which displays items related to sea travel and marine life, including a whale skeleton and shipwreck relics. The Galle National Museum, housed in a building from 1656, showcases cultural items like masks, carvings, and colonial-era artifacts. Just outside the fort, the Galle International Stadium hosts cricket games, with stunning views of the ocean in the background.
Best places to visit in Galle
Galle Fort
Galle Fort is a historic area on a peninsula, surrounded by old stone walls.
It was first built by the Portuguese in the 1500s and later improved by the Dutch and British.
Inside, there are museums with traditional masks and carvings.
The Galle Clock Tower, built in 1880, stands tall above the fort.
A lighthouse nearby offers great views and a beach for swimming.
National Museum of Galle
This museum is located inside the oldest Dutch building in Galle Fort.
It was built in 1656 and was once used by the Dutch army.
Now, it shows items like wood carvings and masks from Sri Lanka’s history.
Visitors can learn about the local culture and traditions.
It’s a great stop for anyone exploring Galle Fort.
Japanese Peace Pagoda
The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a white Buddhist temple on a hill.
It offers wide views of the sea and green surroundings.
The peaceful setting is perfect for quiet reflection.
It was built to promote peace around the world.
Visitors come to enjoy the view and calm atmosphere.
Galle Lighthouse
The Galle Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Sri Lanka.
It stands near the edge of Galle Fort and is still working today.
The structure is simple but elegant, and it lights the coast at night.
There’s a small beach nearby where people often swim.
It’s a favorite photo spot for tourists.
Galle Clock Tower
This clock tower is a well-known part of Galle Fort.
It was built in 1880 and stands on Moon Bastion.
It was made in honor of a local doctor.
You can see it from many parts of the fort.
It’s one of the oldest landmarks in Galle.
St. Mary’s Cathedral
St. Mary’s Cathedral is a major Catholic church in Galle.
It was built in the late 1800s by Jesuit missionaries.
The church is known for its tall structure and peaceful space.
It serves as the main church for the Galle Diocese.
Many visitors admire its beauty and history.
Maritime Archaeology Museum
This museum is inside an old Dutch warehouse from 1671.
It opened to the public in 1992 and sits inside Galle Fort.
It displays shipwreck items, tools, and marine life models.
The museum shares stories of Sri Lanka’s sea history.
It’s a great place for those interested in ocean treasures.
Best time to visit Galle
The ideal time to visit Galle is between December and April. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny with little rain. This makes it perfect for sightseeing and spending time outdoors. The clear skies also offer great views along the coast. It’s the best season to enjoy the beaches and explore the city comfortably.
