Galle is often regarded as the country’s most historically significant and charming town. It’s a mix of the past and the present, and it’s remarkable in many ways. The first Portuguese ship, captained by Laurenco De Almeida, arrived at Galle around 500 years ago. Due to the presence of numerous loud birds in the region, it was given the name Galle. It is now the country’s principal naval facility as well as a popular tourist attraction. Tourists flock to Galle to partake in the town’s many attractions.
Galle, as well as the surrounding area, is full of tourist attractions. The Portuguese built the Dutch Fort to stave against attacks from northern empires. The fort has several museums, religious sites, and turrets. The National Maritime Museum is located inside the Fort area and focuses on various aspects of life in and around the water. A Dutch officer designed and built the Dutch Reformed Church. Marriage records dating back to 1748 can be found here.
A very refreshing woodland named Kottawa Conservation Forest is located 9.3 miles (15 km) northeast of Galle. Orchids, climbing plants, and rare bird species abound in the woodland. Hikkaduwa Beach is a well-known cheap beach destination that attracts a large number of surfers, divers, and partygoers.
In 1988, UNESCO designated the Old Town and its Fortifications as a World Heritage Site. The city is a fascinating destination to look for colonial art and antiquities, such as jewellery and pottery. At the South Ceylon Industrial Agency & Handicraft Factory, you may see lace, jewellery, batik, embroidery, and other goods being made. Traditional craftspeople from nearby villages work at the factory. You may also get a variety of other Sri Lankan handicrafts at Laksala and Shoba Apparels.
Top Tourist Attractions of Galle
Dutch Fort
The Portuguese built Dutch Fort in Galle to defend against attacks from northern empires. The Dutch thereafter took control of the southern coastal cities. They improved the fort’s security. The fort now houses several museums, religious sites, and towers. A handful of private dwellings are also located within the fort. The fort’s historic walls, which date back to 1663, remain mostly intact.
National Maritime Museum
Galle’s National Maritime Museum is located inside the Fort area and is dedicated to many aspects of life in and around the water. Various replicas of marine animals are on display here. The museum also has a presentation on coral reefs, as well as several fibreglass whales and other aquatic creatures.
Dutch Reformed Church
A Dutch officer designed and built Dutch Reformed Church. It was formerly the location of a Portuguese church. It was finished in 1754 and is located near the Dutch Fort. The church’s floor is littered with tombstones. There are no pillars inside the structure, and the roof is supported by the walls. Marriage records dating back to 1748 can be found here.
Kottawa Conservation Forest
A very refreshing woodland named Kottawa Conservation Forest is located 9.3 miles (15 km) northeast of Galle. Orchids, climbing plants, moss, and rare bird species abound in the woodland. Scientific names are given to trees in the forest. The forest is a great place to learn about the island’s vegetation. Because many of the insects in the forest are vicious, it is preferable to wear decent shoes.
Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa Beach is a well-known budget beach destination that attracts a large number of surfers, divers, and partygoers. With abundance of diving and surfing opportunities, inexpensive lodging, and a lively, youthful ambiance, the beach is particularly popular with Sri Lankans. The beach is a welcome change from the dull resorts further north.
