Galle: The Timeless Coastal Gem
Galle
Built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch and British, the Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering travellers a plethora of things to explore from a bygone era. Visit historic monuments as you stroll along the ancient ramparts of the fort. This old, culturally harmonious town resembles a quaint European village with cobblestoned streets lined with cafes, bistros, restaurants, boutique retail outlets and more.
Key Attractions
Galle, a charming coastal city in Sri Lanka, is famed for its rich history and scenic beauty. The iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases colonial architecture and cobblestone streets brimming with boutique shops and cafés. Unawatuna Beach offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a relaxing tropical vibe. The Japanese Peace Pagoda, perched on a hill, provides breathtaking views and a serene ambiance. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Galle Lighthouse, the oldest in Sri Lanka, standing as a beacon of the city’s maritime heritage.
Galle Lighthouse
The Galle Lighthouse (also known as the Pointe de Galle Light) is Sri Lanka’s oldest light station, dating back to the mid-19th century and situated within the walls of the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The original Galle Lighthouse was established by the British in 1848 and was the first onshore lighthouse in the area, standing at 24.5 metres tall with a full view of the Galle Harbour.
Galle Clocktower
Situated around 3.5 kilometres away from Galle’s city centre, the Galle Clock Tower can be found inside the Galle Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), immediately within its ramparts. The clock tower was built in the late 19th century in honour of Dr Peter Daniel Anthonisz, a Colonial Surgeon born in Galle who cared for the people of the Southern Province.
Flag Rock
On the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, within the Bay of Galle, the Galle Fort sits as a major tourist attraction and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Portuguese in 1588 and then fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, the Fort is a monument that has retained its appearance and cultural significance for over 400 years.
Main Gate
Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s five historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and is the largest fortress in Asia that was built by Europeans invaders. For 200 years, it served as a major seaport for ships travelling between Europe and Asia. The fort was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, but their design of the structure was focused on the defence of the northern land-side entry point to Galle.
Old Gate
The Galle Fort is a major heritage monument that has been designated as one of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with a history that goes back for over 400 years. It was initially built as a stronghold by the Portuguese in 1588, who only reinforced the northern land-bound side of Galle because they did not believe that the area was susceptible to attacks by sea.
Unawatuna Beach
Unawatuna Beach, a tropical paradise on Sri Lanka's southern coast, is famed for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. The calm, sheltered bay is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, offering vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Lined with palm trees, the beach also features lively restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood and tropical drinks. Adventure seekers can hike to the nearby Japanese Peace Pagoda for stunning panoramic views.