Galle Fort: A Complete Guide To Know Everything About This Historical Gem In Sri Lanka
Galle is the jewel of eternal beauty of Sri Lanka. This historical city is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Built by the Portuguese in 1588, this ancient place has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The place was fortified by the Dutch in the mid-1600s and even after 400 years, the place houses the remains of Dutch architecture and culture. This beautifully surrounded city has quaint cafes, symmetrical streets lined with houses showcasing Dutch architecture and fancy impeccable restaurants and hotels that add to the beauty of this city.
Being the cultural capital of the south coast, this island paradise is a great place to explore Dutch culture, fancy boutiques and breathtaking beach views. This guide will give you all you need to know about what this Sri Lankan border town has to offer for a dream holiday.
Best time to visit: February to April is the best time to explore this island city as spring season makes the weather pleasant and ideal to explore this paradise.
Street map
Distance from Colombo to Galle Fort
Distance from Unawatuna to Galle Fort
Distance from Kandy to Galle Fort
Things to do in Galle Fort
1. Walk the Walls of Galle Fort
The city of Galle is surrounded by brick walls and grassy ramparts, built by Dutch traders in about the 17th century. Earlier these ramparts were built to restrict intruders, now they are used as a platform to view the panoramic view Galle Fort Beach And the whole city.
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2. Explore Dutch architecture
Once ruled by the Dutch forces, Galle Fort still has the remains of the architecture that was built by them. One of them is the fortress ramparts and in addition the Maritime Archaeological Museum, the Groot Kerk and the Amangalla Hotel are reminders of that era.
Places to Eat in Galle Fort
1. Amangalla Restaurant
Enjoy historic Dutch architecture while dining at this restaurant located inside the walls of the Galle Fort. The restaurant’s stunning interior and fresh menu everyday makes it one of the best places to visit in Galle.
Rating: 4.2/5
Place: 10 Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
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2. Galle Fort Hotel
Enjoy the taste of delicious seafood rich in spices, inspiration taken from the famous European spice route. To enjoy delicious and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, Galle Fort Hotel Will give you the experience of dining in the best restaurants of the city.
Rating: 4.3/5
Place: 28 Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
3. Heritage Café
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A perfect place for hipsters and those who want to enjoy delicious food as well as artistic interior. This is where art blends with food and its international menu makes it one of the must-see landmarks located in the heart of this heritage site.
Rating: 3.9/5
Place: 61 Pedlar St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
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4. Mama’s Roof Café
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Enjoy sitting under the stars and eating delicious seafood at this rooftop café located inside the Galle Fort. Taste authentic Sri Lankan cuisine as this place is one of the best places to serve rice and curry in Galle.
Rating: 3.4/5
Place: Lane Ban St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Shopping Places in Galle Fort
1. Souk 58
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Souk 58 is home to locally designed home goods that will add color to your dull living room. The products at this place are quite a strain on the budget but the quality is worth every penny.
Place: 58 Church Street
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2. Barefoot
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This is a paradise for buyers looking to spend money on earthy materials. Barefoot believes in maintaining an earthy touch in its products and one can take home sarongs, beach wraps, bags and other great products as souvenirs.
Place: Pedlar Street
3. Dutch Gallery
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If you have an eye for antiques, this place located in the lanes of Galle Fort would be an ideal place. Its treasure boxes contain everything from discarded keys to shelves that belong to Sri Lanka’s bygone era. Along with this, there are also precious gems and ancient jewelery at this place.
Place: 33, Church Street, Galle Fort
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Places to Stay near Galle Fort
1. Antique guesthouse
A heritage property turned guesthouse, this place offers a comfortable stay experience in a fancy interior. Situated very close to the historical architecture of Galle, this place gives a unique experience of past and present.
Rating: 4.7/5
Place: New Lane I, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
2. Beach Haven Guest House
The first guest house, opened in the year 1968, Beach Haven Guest House is located just 400 kilometers from Galle Fort. With comfortable rooms and diverse facilities under one roof, this place is one of the best places to stay in Galle Fort.
Rating: 4.3/5
Place: Rampart St, Galle
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Excited to explore this heavenly paradise? Don’t worry, we are with you with our best Sri Lanka packages that will make your beach holiday a memorable one.
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