# Galle: Sri Lanka’s Historic Coastal Gem

## Introduction
Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a perfect blend of colonial charm and tropical beauty. This fortified city, built by the Portuguese and Dutch in the 16th and 17th centuries, stands as one of Sri Lanka’s best-preserved colonial towns, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past while enjoying modern amenities.

## Best Time to Visit
– December to April: Peak season with minimal rainfall
– May to September: Southwest monsoon season
– October to November: Inter-monsoon period
– Average temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F)

## Must-Visit Attractions

### 1. Galle Fort
The crown jewel of the city featuring:
– 400-year-old Dutch colonial buildings
– Ancient ramparts and bastions
– Lighthouse
– Clock tower
– Beautiful ocean views
– UNESCO World Heritage status

### 2. Historical Buildings
– Dutch Reformed Church
– Maritime Museum
– Old Dutch Hospital
– All Saints Church
– Former Dutch Government House
– Meera Mosque

### 3. Beaches
– Unawatuna Beach (6km)
– Jungle Beach
– Dalawella Beach
– Wijaya Beach
– Mihiripenna Beach

### 4. Cultural Sites
– National Museum of Galle
– Historical Mansion Museum
– Buddhist temples
– Traditional mask museums
– Local art galleries

## Activities and Experiences

### 1. Walking Tours
– Guided fort walks
– Architecture tours
– Photography walks
– Ghost tours
– Food tours

### 2. Water Activities
– Snorkeling
– Diving
– Surfing
– Whale watching (seasonal)
– Beach hopping

### 3. Cultural Activities
– Cooking classes
– Gem shopping
– Handicraft workshops
– Tea tasting
– Local market visits

## Shopping

### Specialty Shops
– Gem and jewelry stores
– Antique shops
– Local handicrafts
– Art galleries
– Textiles and lace

### Markets
– Fish market
– Spice vendors
– Local produce
– Street markets
– Handicraft markets

## Culinary Experiences

### Local Specialties
– Fresh seafood
– Southern Sri Lankan curry
– Hoppers
– Kottu roti
– Traditional sweets

### Notable Restaurants
– Fort Promenade restaurants
– Church Street Social
– Pedlar’s Inn Café
– Lucky Fort Restaurant
– The Fort Bistro

## Accommodation Options

### Luxury
– Amangalla
– Galle Fort Hotel
– Le Grand Galle
– Fort Bazaar
– The Heritage Galle Fort

### Mid-Range
– Fort Square Boutique Villa
– Antic Guesthouse
– Lady Hill Hotel
– The Fort Printers
– Fortaleza

### Budget
– Pedlar’s Inn Hostel
– Fort Inn Guest House
– Various guesthouses
– Homestays

## Practical Information

### Transportation
#### Getting There
– From Colombo: 2-3 hours by car
– Express train service available
– Highway buses
– Private transfers

#### Local Transport
– Tuk-tuks
– Bicycles
– Walking (within fort)
– Local buses
– Taxis

### Weather Considerations
– Light clothing recommended
– Rain gear during monsoon
– Sun protection essential
– Evening sea breeze can be cool

## Day Trips from Galle
1. Unawatuna (6 km)
2. Hikkaduwa (17 km)
3. Mirissa (40 km)
4. Koggala Lake (13 km)
5. Handunugoda Tea Estate (18 km)

## Best Photography Spots
– Galle Fort ramparts at sunset
– Lighthouse area
– Flag Rock
– Dutch Hospital complex
– Clock Tower
– Ocean views from bastions

## Cultural Etiquette
– Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
– Remove shoes before entering temples
– Ask permission before photographing people
– Respect local customs
– Use right hand for eating and handling money

## Seasonal Events
– Galle Literary Festival (January)
– New Year celebrations (April)
– Vesak celebrations (May)
– Cricket matches at Galle International Stadium
– Folk music festivals

## Safety Tips
– Use registered tuk-tuks
– Keep valuables secure
– Swim in designated areas
– Stay hydrated
– Follow local guidance during rough weather

## Environmental Considerations
– Use reef-safe sunscreen
– Avoid single-use plastics
– Support eco-friendly initiatives
– Respect marine life
– Proper waste disposal

## Emergency Contacts
– Tourist Police: +94 91 2234365
– Galle Hospital: +94 91 2232276
– Fort Police: +94 91 2234024
– Tourist Information: +94 91 2234357