Galle, Sri Lanka - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: December 15, 2024
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HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO | WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
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The Fort
Famed for the 16th-century fortified walls surrounding some of the shops and cafes, Galle in the southwest is one of the most beautiful cities in Sri Lanka.
Not to mention, the later additions of the magnificent Dutch Hospital and lighthouse.
Sri Lankans don't like cricket, they love it! And here in Galle, the renowned Galle International Stadium stands tall at the entrance to the Fort.
Another delight within the city is the sea turtle hatchery. At the same time, the outer circumference of Galle's borders plays host to quite possibly the best beaches in the country.
Dalawella and Jungle Beach, whilst very different are staggeringly picturesque. With the most unique coloured sands and clear waters teeming with wildlife, they're a masterpiece.
In this Galle travel guide, we will dive into the Fort and check out the best accommodation, cooking classes, insane beaches and the best things to do in Galle, Sri Lanka.
You have to join us.
What's Galle, Sri Lanka Like?
Frankly, Galle could be separated into three completely different areas.
The Old Galle Fort is a pristine, clean outcrop to the south of Galle caressed on three sides by the turquoise Indian Ocean.
Encircled by the Old Fort Walls the narrow bricked streets and old buildings are a delight. Every aspect of the Old Fort is manicured to within an inch of perfection. The Old Dutch Hospital and Lighthouse are the pinnacle of the Fort, yet, in truth, every part is simply fantastic.
Evidently, it's old and has seen better days, but clearly still loved and cherished. In truth, the Old Fort area of Galle is like your wrinkled old nan. You love her and smile when you see her, but you hug her gently, to not break her weary bones.
It's magical, and genuinely a pleasure to walk around.
Then there's the town itself, which is less attractive, less clean and a mishmash of Sri Lankan chaos and day-to-day life. Those feelings you get in the fort diminish as you could be in any typical Sri Lankan town.
It's busy but not as loud as other towns, it's green, but not Nuwara Eliya green. It has all the components, but the cogs aren't turning. You want to go back to the beaches and the fort.
Finally, there's the beaches.
The beautiful crisp sands of Jungle Beach, Dalawella and Unawatuna Beach felt the beat from the soles of our feet.
The beaches are a paradise of perfect sands, warm crystal clear waters and palm trees.
Life on the beaches is a relaxing heavenly moment of pure perfection as the sun beats down. Overall, if you shut your eyes and think of that paradise moment, this is it.
It's truly magic, all topped off by swinging over the sea from a palm tree as the sunset.
Yeah, life's good.
How to get to Galle, Sri Lanka
Galle is the largest city in southwest Sri Lanka, dominated by the old Dutch Fort which struts into the sea.
Due to Galle's strategic position and size, the city is, despite being so remote, very well-connected to the rest of the country.
The two main routes into Galle are the A2 and the E01. Both start at Colombo, south of the airport and run around the island to Tissamaharama on the southeast coast.
If you have a car, you will experience the best of Sri Lanka.
How to get to Galle From the Northwest
If time is not a factor and you're coming from the airport, Colombo or Negombo take the A2. It's the picturesque coastal road through small, pretty seaside towns and beaches.
The A2 will take around three hours, but you will want to stop and explore the beautiful coastline.
Nonetheless, if you're limited by time, the E01 runs a more direct route and will only take about two and a half hours.
Again, public transport is available. You can take the train, which takes just over two hours. Another option is the bus, but it will not be comfortable or fun. Likewise, it will take the direct route on the E01 and take around three hours.
How to get to Galle From the Southeast
If you're visiting Galle from the southeast, you are doing the same thing, only in reverse. the E01 is the more direct route, whilst the exceptionally pretty A2 runs along the coast. This is where the views and beaches really turn on the style.
How to get to Galle From Central Sri Lanka
Finally, if you're exploring Galle from the central lands of Kandy, Nuwara Eliya or Ella, it starts to get tricky. Why? Because public transport doesn't run direct to Galle. It all goes back up and through Colombo. And that will take essentially ten hours of painful and shit scary travel.
Yet, if you find a driver, which you will, or have a car, you'll be happy to know you can take the A23 out of Ella onto the A2 to Galle.
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend on Holiday in Galle, Sri Lanka?
Galle reminds me of the souks of Essaouira and other chilled Moroccan cities. There is a chilled-out, mellow, hipster almost bohemian vibe here in Galle, especially within the old Dutch Fort. I can almost taste the cocktails and hear the gentle sways of reggae.
So, whilst there aren't loads of things to do, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, beaches and laidback walks to pass the time. No one is in a rush. Gall is the perfect place to kick back, relax and watch the world go by.
Galle is worth visiting as part of your Sri Lankan tour, hence, I'd suggest you take at least three nights here, ideally more.
The Best Time Of The Year For Discovering Galle, Sri Lanka
Galle is geared for a romantic cafe culture and beach lifestyle. Therefore, you'll need the weather on your side.
Luckily, the weather in Galle, Sri Lanka is normally pretty good. Thankfully, the sea breeze means Galle doesn't get as hot and humid as other parts of the country.
Likewise, as it's at sea level, it never gets as cold and wet as Nuwara Eliya.
However, the best time to visit Galle, Sri Lanka is from mid-November to March as there's less rainfall and perfectly blue skies.
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking Galle, Sri Lanka
No Galle travel guide would be complete without checking out the accommodation.
Frankly., the best place to stay in Galle is in and around the Dutch Fort. It's where you'll find the best cafes and restaurants and the best nightlife in Galle.
Furthermore, it's more attractive than the rest of the city. However, this does come with inflated prices.
As you would expect with a tourist hotspot, there are numerous types of accommodation in Galle, from hostels to hotels and rooms to apartments.
All that's left for you to do is work out what style and budget you want.
I've only stayed in one location in Galle, and it was a short drive out from the Fort. Nevertheless, it was so good that I didn't see the need to look elsewhere.
Let's take a look at that.
Villa Aroshina
- What: A friendly, beautiful family home with spare rooms.
- Where: Less than a ten-minute tuk-tuk ride from the old Dutch Fort. (map)
- Why: Aroshina and her family are wonderful and her cooking is unbeatable **Now they do cooking classes too.**
- Why Not: You want to stay in the old Dutch Fort.
Words cannot describe how amazing this magical fun and friendly family are.
They are warm and inviting and welcome all guests to their family home - Villa Aroshina.
Aroshina and the family invite you to join them for their family meals. But not as you know it. Aroshina is an expert chef and fills the table with hearty, flavoursome and delicious Sri Lankan food, and my god it's good.
Whilst Aroshina tends to your every need, her husband offers to drive you anywhere you want to go. He wouldn't even take a tip. I remember going on a night ride around Galle in the back of his tuk tuk laughing away with their son.
Back in Villa Aroshina, the rooms are just brilliant in every way. They are a decent size, clean, and extremely comfortable. It was, however, the little touches and decor that made them special. When it comes to amenities, nothing has been forgotten.
I loved Villa Aroshina.
Now, Aroshina has added the option of a cooking masterclass to your stay. If you do one thing in Galle, Sri Lanka make it this. You will not regret it.
In September 2024, 3 nights in Villa Aroshina with a cooking class will cost from 39,500LKR (£100) for two people. What a bargain.
Further Accommodation in Galle, Sri Lanka
If Villa Aroshina isn't for you, then one, ok weirdo, and two, I understand.
We are all different and have varying tastes and levels of expectation.
Luckily the trust trio of Airbnb, Booking and Hostelworld have just about every aspect of accommodation in Galle covered for you.
Check out a few and book up the one that suits you best.
Best things to do in Galle, Sri Lanka
Discovering the best things to do in Galle, Sri Lanka is easy.
Nothing is too far from anything, but if you need to get around, you will find numerous people willing to take you.
In truth, Galle is about relaxing in the cafe culture or exploring the historic old fort and chilling on the paradise beaches.
Don't expect to rush around like a lunatic, that's simply not Galle.
With that said, let's check out my what to do in Galle, Sri Lanka list.
On today's Galle itinerary:
Walk the Fort Walls
- Why: Great views out to sea and over the fort and Galle Cricket Ground.
- Where: The southern peninsular of Galle juttying out into the sea. (map)
- How long: Spend an hour or so playing on the walls
- How much: My favourite word, and something all tourists like - Free.
Well, there isn't much to say about this activity. Walking the walls means walking the walls, and it is, as you'd imagine.
Only, this time, you're walking a part Portuguese, part Dutch, fortified wall on the sublime Galle coast. The first part of the fortified walls were built in 1588. Therefore, you're exploring the history of two once-vast empires.
Following the wall up over the entrance gate and round to the sea will be a new and refreshing way of seeing the old fort. Likewise, if there's a cricket game on, you'll have front-row seats.
It is a fun way to explore what is, essentially, the prettiest and most popular part of Galle, Sri Lanka.
Furthermore, if you combine it with my next suggestion, the lighthouse and Dutch Fort, you'll have a great day out.
Explore the Dutch Fort and Admire the Lighthouse and Hosptial
- Why: They are some of the most beautiful buildings in Galle.
- Where: In the far Southeast corner of the Fort (map)
- How long: About thirty minutes for both. Unless you stop for a drink in the Old Fort.
- How much: Again, it's free. What a great result.
Undeniably, Galle Fort is the highlight of any Galle trip, and no Galle Blog would be complete without a mention.
Hence, when you come down from those Fort walls, you will be in the epicentre of all the best cafes, restaurants and the most beautiful buildings in Galle.
One of the most attractive buildings is the Dutch Hospital with a unique and charming vibe and stunning architecture. From the hospital, you will also see the refurbished lighthouse, originally built in 1848 which burnt down in 1934.
Ultimately, everything, bar the beaches is here in Galle Fort. The best of the architecture, the cafe culture, restaurants and the boutique shops. It's where you'll want to be.
Chill with the Locals as you Soak up the Sun on Jungle Beach
- Why: The beach is fantastic and a firm favourite with the locals.
- Where: Across the bay from Galle's Fort. (map)
- How long: Honestly, it's worth a month, but take a day to relax.
- How much: Other than the tuk-tuk ride and a few beachside drinks, it's free.
Jungle Beach is one of the prettiest cove beaches I've ever seen. The small jungle setting meets the crisp golden sands that curve around the bay with glass-like cooling seas lapping gently at its shores.
It's no surprise that the locals love this place.
If paradise wasn't enough, they also have a magnificent little beach shack selling cocktails and beers and a few little stalls selling fresh fruits.
Kick-back, sunbath and relax.
However, if you can draw yourself away for a stroll, the headland has numerous viewing points and a large Japanese Peace Pagoda that can be seen from the other side of the bay.
Watch the Sunset as you Play on the Rope Swing at Dalawella Beach
- Why: Some of the best sunsets I've ever seen, beers and a swing. Why wouldn't you?
- Where: A short ride east from Galle, but well worth the effort. (map)
- How long: Ideally, all evening until the sun goes down.
- How much: The sunset is free, but the swing is a couple of quid.
Like Jungle Beach, Dalawella Beach is spectacular and well worth a visit despite being slightly out of town.
Dalawella differs from Jungle Beach due to being thin ribbon of golden sand facing a direct oncoming sea.
In addition, it's more built up with sunbeds and hotels, yet retains that jungle, green and natural vibe.
Again, you will find some epic sunsets here on Dalawella Beach. But none more so than at the Dalawella beach swing. The beautiful backdrop of the setting sun, the perfectly shaped palm and your silhouette flying over the glistening seas. You can't not have that picture, right?
Another icon of Sri Lanka you might see here is stilt fishing, which is where the men climb onto a flimsy homemade wooden stilt and stalk their prey from above.
If that wasn't enough, you're more likely to find turtles resting in the shallows, and who doesn't love turtles?
Splash in the Waves at Unawatuna Beach
- Why: Again, it's a beautiful beach.
- Where: Around the headland, between Jungle Beach and Dalawella Beach. (map)
- How long: Half a day relaxing before heading out of town into the madness.
- How much: Another free activity in Galle, Sri Lanka.
Nestled between Jungle and Dalawella is the small seaside area of Unawatuna.
Much like the other two beaches, expect to find luscious green palms and grasses springing from the almost yellowing sands and romantic translucent waters.
Only, from here, you can do a lot more.
There are bars, restaurants and a lot of boat hire, trips and numerous other watersports.
Unawatuna Beach is the perfect place for those who don't like beach holidays. You can relax for that twenty minutes until you get bored, but then take to the jungle, grab a beer or explore the seas on a boat.
Where to Eat When Backpacking Galle, Sri Lanka
As mentioned above, our homestay, Villa Aroshina, gave us the best start to the day.
We woke up to find our breakfast on the table every morning at a time agreed the previous night. Not only was there a lot of food, but the tastes were sublime.
The evening meals were as above. This plentiful bounty of pure gold was outstanding, and wouldn't be out of place in a Masterchef final.
The only downside to this is that we didn't eat out in the city much. We tried a few places for a quick snack at lunch, but that was about it.
Sorry readers, but I was in a food heaven, without going out into Galle, Sri Lanka.
Anura's Restaurant
- What: A cafe with accommodation and a hint of South American Vibes.
- Where: In the centre of the fort. Head into the fort and keep going straight. (map)
- How much: Super cheap. Meals range from around 1000LKR to 3000LKA (£2.50-£7.60).
Nevertheless, the wonderful Anura's Restaurant is somewhere worth a recommendation. Just inside the fort walls this quirky cafe instantly grabbed our attention. The reggae/Bob Marley theme is a little bit of me, and I loved it. The artwork throughout was eye-catching, to say the least. Anura's had the vibe down to a tee, and it was so interesting, friendly and fun.
The above delicious cake and cuppa were on point, moist throughout and delicious. Every bite was a drop of heaven and it, therefore, got my seal of approval.
Where to Party when Backpacking Galle, Sri Lanka
As with most of Sri Lanka's cities and towns, there isn't a wealth of nightlife or raving parties.
Galle's nightlife and bars revolve around chilled bohemian-styled bars and beach vibes, which is cool.
But fear not! In Galle, several bars open until late (well, later than most in Sri Lanka). Generally, this means around 11pm. However, if you're spending money, and it's booming, they are, more likely, to turn a blind eye to the closing time.
Overall, the bars are within the old Dutch Fort or just out of town in and around Unawatuna Beach.
Jungle Beach Bar
- What: Small beach shack with all the drink and vibes you'll ever need.
- Where: On the sublime Jungle Beach. (map)
Firstly the awesome Jungle Beach Bar, whilst slightly expensive is a fantastically fun place to drink. In effect, the phrase location, location, location comes to mind. Hidden down on Jungle Beach amid the sands, seas and wonderful atmosphere the bar is a must.
There's a great selection of alcohol including cocktails, gins and rums, which all slip down nicely on a hot day. For the T-total's out there, there's a good choice of non-alcoholic drinks too.
The barman was a legend too and unsurprisingly seemed mega happy in his work. I mean chilling on a beach surrounded by epic views, is not a bad life. Consequently, even I'd like that work.
TapHouse by R&R
- What: Trendy New York-styled bar.
- Where: In the Dutch Hospital next to the lighthouse in the southeast corner of the fort. (map)
There are a few lovely little bars in and around the fort. As expected, the bars within the fort command a slightly higher price, again location, location, location.
The Taphouse By R&R within the Old Dutch Hospital has to be one of my favourites. The factory/commercial feel of the interior works perfectly with the natural materials. There is everything to like about the Taphouse, similar to the Taphouse Colombo.
By the same token, the Taphouse has to be that the drinks were cold, tasty and served with a smile.
Is Galle, Sri Lanka Safe?
Yes, Galle is a very safe place to visit, even if you want to explore alone at night.
In truth, most people in Galle are incredibly friendly and helpful, yet some do pester you. On two occasions, I had someone follow me for about five minutes, telling me I had to go somewhere and that they would take me.
I get it, they want you to pay them for taking you somewhere, but it does feel a bit too in your face. Admittedly, there were no threats or malice in their actions, but it put my guard up.
Other than that, I can hand-on-heart say Galle was fantastic, and at no time did the idea of crime come into my thought process.
Of course, the town of Galle is a big tourist destination, and as with anywhere in the world, petty crime tends to happen in areas of high footfall. However, as long as you take precautions and are sensible, any trip to Galle, Sri Lanka, should be completely safe.
As for natural disasters, Galle can suffer from floods, most famously by the horrendous tsunami on Boxing Day 2004.
However, again, this shouldn't be something to stop you from visiting Galle. After all, the 2004 tsunami hit eighteen countries.
Galle is worth visiting and is a safe place to visit.
I'm only telling you what I've experienced and know to give you the full picture.
Leave a Comment
Thanks for checking out my travel guide to Galle, Sri Lanka.
Hopefully, now you know all the best things to do in Galle and the best places to visit.
Likewise, I hope I've answered the question, Is Galle worth visiting, with a resounding yes, it is.
As always, if you have any further questions please drop them in the comments below or send me a little message on Instagram. I'm always happy to help.
All that's left for me to say is enjoy your Galle holiday. It will be something you'll remember for the rest of your life. Finally, don't forget to leave a comment, and let me know about your trip and what you think of Galle, Sri Lanka.
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