Top Things to Do in the Galle | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Galle

Places To Visit In Galle

Ahungalla Beach

Situated in the Ahungalla town in the Galle district, Ahungalla beach is a great place to relax and spend some peaceful time; especially with the beach being relatively less crowded than the others in Sri Lanka. One can sunbathe, surf, or simply cherish their time here by taking an evening walk along the stretch of this beach while appreciating nature’s beauty. This place is not ideal for swimming as the waves are too strong and red flags are raised around the area to warn visitors of this fact. Read More

Amangalla is a luxury hotel within the confines of the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Ste. With a history dating back to the late 17th century, the building is currently a part of Aman Resorts, an international luxury hotel chain. The property is a blend of colonial-era charm with a tinge of modernity and a dose of Sri Lankan hospitality. Tourists not staying at Amangalla need not bed disappointed—a section of the hotel is open to the public to experience the colonial setting with antique furnishings and chandeliers. Amangalla stands today as a reflection of Dutch architecture and is often visited on a tour of Galle Fort. Read More

The Dutch Reformed Church, also known as De Groote Kerk, is located inside the Galle Fort. Built in 1755, it is the oldest Protestant church in Sri Lanka and continues to be in use today. It is mostly renowned for its fascinating interiors. This piece of colonial architecture houses interesting relics as a testament to its long history, such as an organ, pulpit, and stunning stained glasswork. Distinctive memorial tablets of former commanders of Galle serve as a reminder of the Dutch colonialists. A belfry whose origins lie in the early 18th century stands opposite the church. Read More

Flag Rock is an erstwhile bastion situated in the southernmost corner of Galle Fort. Formerly a signalling point, today it is a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike to unwind after sightseeing at the fort. Nearly everyone visiting Galle Fort agrees that Flag Rock is among the best places to watch the sunset. Cliff jumping at the site is relatively popular; one can often spot plucky locals jumping off the rock and diving into the ocean despite the dangers below, usually for a small fee. Local vendors, selling a variety of lip-smacking street food, are frequently milling around flag rock; sample the food while you relish the vistas of the ocean and the fort. Read More

Galle Fort Lighthouse, one of the oldest in Sri Lanka, is a coastal lighthouse inside Galle Fort. Initially built in 1848, it is one of the most visited attractions of the fort due to its picturesque surroundings, perfect for a serene stroll or an Instagram-worthy photo. It is important to note that visitors are not allowed to climb to the top of the lighthouse. This fully-automated lighthouse stands at a height of 26.5 metres and is still in use today. Apart from relaxing or capturing gorgeous photos of the landscape, one can also participate in activities such as swimming. Read More

The Galle Fort, located on the southern coast of the country, is one of the five historical monuments which one must visit when in Sri Lanka. The fort was initially built by the Portuguese and was later modified by the Dutch. Today the Galle Fort is also declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a stunning blend of architecture, archaeology and history amidst a beautiful tropical setting. The Galle Fort attracts many tourists and locals not just because of its historical appeal but the buzzing life inside the monument with lively shops and cafes, museums, villas and lifestyle shops to complete your experience. You can visit all these places by taking a walk through the beautiful structures, which is always open and also free of cost. If you have some extra time to spare, do go through the walls by the perimeter, where you will find several stairs which will lead you up to it. Read More

Galle International Stadium is a cricket stadium in Galle, Sri Lanka, situated near the Galle fort and surrounded on two sides by the Indian Ocean. It is considered to be one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world. The Galle International Cricket Stadium was known as ‘The Esplanade’ before it was brought up to international cricket standards. It is now the home ground of the Galle Cricket Club. This stadium is known as one of the luckiest venues for the Sri Lankan national cricket team. Read More

Historical Mansion Museum, Galle

The Historical Mansion Museum is inside the Galle Fort and is more of an antique shop than a museum. It belongs to a single family and has a great display of their family antique collection. The museum proves to be a fantastic sightseeing spot for those interested in the history of Sri Lanka. Source The museum exhibits a collection of miscellaneous items ranging from colonial artifacts to other antiquities - with many things available for sale. The museum is also the home to a gem shop. Visitors of the museum will be able to witness live embroidery presentations and also the process of cutting and polishing gorgeous sapphires and other precious gems. The central courtyard is the place where visitors can take a look at the various sculptures of stone, Chinese porcelain items and many other things from the colonial era. The museum sells table-cloths, ancient items, antiques, handicrafts and precious jewellery. Read More

Located in Induruwa village in Bentota town in Sri Lanka, Induruwa beach is a serene white sandy beach that is a perfect spot to surf, sunbathe and chill with friends and loved ones. Moreover, there are a number of accommodation facilities littered around this beach ranging from beach style villas to star class hotels.

Koggala is a beautiful picturesque place which is dotted with some beautiful islands and temples. One of the major attractions here is the Koggala Lake which is embellished with almost eight ecologically rich small islands which enhance the beauty of the whole experience. Koggala Lake is one of the largest lakes of the country and is also a significant attraction in Galle. The boat ride on the lake accommodates not more than six people at one time and takes tourists through different islands, including the spice gardens, and ancient structures with beautiful wall paintings. The tour lasts for approximately two hours. Each island is unique its way from bird island to spice garden ushering you with one of the most amazing experiences set in great and magnificent surroundings.On tour, every person is provided with bottled water and life jackets to remain safe and hydrated throughout the journey. Read More