The historic city of Galle, located on Sri Lanka’s gorgeous southwest coast, is one of the country’s most popular tourist sites, and it’s simple to understand why. The city is a terrific destination to visit, with many distinct cultural influences and historic tourist sites, and is full of fascinating historical sights and cultural landmarks that originate from Portuguese, Dutch, and British domination.
Galle city was first invaded by the Portuguese in the late 16th century before being taken over by the Dutch in the 17th century. It became Sri Lanka’s primary spice trading port for nearly 200 years. Here’s what Galle is known for.
1. Galle Fort
The old Dutch Fort, which is situated in a picturesque location at the city’s harbor entrance, is the center of most of the city’s life. Not only will you discover amazing mosques, churches, and colonial-era structures here, but you’ll also find lovely tiny cafés and eateries, and the area is usually buzzing.
Today, the Galle Fort region is unlike everywhere else in Sri Lanka; a strangely European-feeling city nestled in the deliciously salty tropics, a melting pot of culture and religion brimming with color, and a location where, happily, the taste of Ceylon tea and cinnamon is never far away.
Galle Fort is gradually gentrifying as elegant shops, restaurants, and hotels restore the whitewashed Dutch colonial buildings to their former splendor, yet a quick stroll down a quiet laneway can transport you back to the 1700s.
Galle Fort is one of the must-see attractions on any Sri Lankan itinerary. It is alluring, unusual, and completely charming.
2. Old Gate
The Old Gate, encased within the city’s fortifications, has welcomed visitors to the Galle Fort for generations. Although the entrance, architecture, and emblems may not appear outstanding, they effectively embody Galle’s unique history and legacy.
While the British Coat of Arms can be seen above the gate, flanked by two majestic lions, the inside includes an inscription from the Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie, or Dutch East India Company, dating from 1669.
These two magnificent carvings are merely small reminders of the different peoples and powers who tried to control the city and the spice trade over the years.
3. Unawatuna Beach
Unawatuna is one of Sri Lanka’s loveliest and most popular beaches, and it’s the ideal place to visit if you want to relax in the sun while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Unawatuna is known for its abundance of watersports. While its palm tree-lined golden sands are undeniably gorgeous, with the waves of the ocean softly lapping at its shores, Unawatuna is known for its plethora of watersports.
Unawatuna attracts a lot of scuba divers and snorkelers since it has a lot of spectacular coral reefs and shipwrecks off the coast. Turtles may even come to nest on the shore at specific periods of the year. It also boasts many laid-back tiny restaurants, pubs, and hotels to pick from. If you want to mix a beach vacation with history and culture, this is the place to stay.
4. Galle Fort Clock Tower
The Clock Tower, located immediately inside the Fort’s thick stone walls, is one of the city’s most identifiable features and most photographed structures. It was built in 1883 in honor of Peter Daniel Anthonisz, a well-known and renowned doctor.
A plaque commemorating the doctor’s life and his talent and generosity in alleviating human suffering can still be read today. With the harbor directly behind it and the Fort all surrounding it, the Clock Tower, which stands at the height of 25 meters, is a beautiful sight.
5. Japanese Peace Pagoda
As lovely as the Fort is, it is worthwhile to leave town. The Japanese Peace Pagoda, which overlooks Galle Bay, is a famous tourist attraction. Many legends surround this specific location in Rumassala.
It’s probably enough to note that the current edifice was built in 2005 by a Japanese Buddhist monk of the Mayana sect. They created it to preach peace in Sri Lanka, which was still a combat zone at the time (the civil war ended only in 2009). I’m not sure if the structure aids in the conflict’s conclusion, but I can vouch for the beauty of the location overlooking Galle Bay. From here, you’ll have a great view of the Fort, and a tuk-tuk will get you there swiftly. You will, however, have to climb some stairs.
6. Dutch Hospital
The Dutch Hospital, now home to a plethora of trendy boutiques and excellent eating businesses, was formerly the site of a colonial hospital where the ill and wounded could presumably recover and recover.
The two-story hospital, just a short walk from the harbor, features spectacular collonaded verandas, wooden staircases, and gleaming white walls. It has been lovingly repaired and remodeled in recent years and now appears as good as it did in its prime in the 17th century.
7. Dalawella Beach
While all of the above attractions are located in Galle Fort, Dalawella Beach is located outside the city and is only a short bus ride away. The beach is as lovely as they come, with gently waving palm trees lining its gorgeous golden sands, bordering the warm and welcoming waves of the Indian Ocean.
Dalawella Beach is great if you want to relax and unwind in a beautiful location. It’s far less busy than the more popular Unawatuna Beach. Many visitors come to take pictures on the beach swing, which has become popular on Instagram.
There are a variety of fantastic cafes, restaurants, and hotels on Dalawella Beach if you want to spend more time relaxing. Stay for the sunset, which is very breathtaking.
8. Meeran Mosque
Meeran Mosque, which was only completed in 1904, is a wonderful mix of architectural styles that shows the incredible diversity of people that have lived in and reigned over Galle over the years.
While the mosque’s Baroque exterior resembles that of a cathedral, some wonderful Islamic detailing and ornaments remind us that we are gazing at a mosque. When you add in numerous British Victorian features, Dutch-influenced patterns, and patterned Italian floor tiles, you get a sense of the mosque’s and Galle’s history and architecture.
Against its surroundings, the exquisite whitish edifice shines out. Meeran Mosque is worth visiting because of this odd and unique blend.
If you can’t tolerate your enthusiasm any longer and are ready to visit these fantastic Galle attractions, then pack your belongings and travel to this paradise city. But, first and foremost, make plans for a trip to Sri Lanka and prepare for an unforgettable vacation!
