6 Best Things To Do in Galle, Sri Lanka [and Where To Stay]

Are you planning to travel to Galle, Sri Lanka soon? Read our tips below on the things to do in Galle and where to stay.

Galle is one of the most visited cities in Sri Lanka. With the historical sites that this city boasts, it is not uncommon to see lots of tourists going here, especially during the peak season. If you want to know the popular places to explore here, below is the list of the best things to do in Galle for your future reference.

List of Best Things To Do

1. Galle Fort

In the middle of the fort in Galle, next to the Amangalla, Fort Galle is a beautiful example of how owners of such facilities try to preserve the old charm. Worth seeing and is very different from the other cities of Sri Lanka, but of course it is also very touristy.

2. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Sinharaja Forest is a breathtaking rainforest with wonderfully diverse flora and fauna that will amaze you. Birds, spiders, snakes, monkeys, wild chickens – everything included. Just enjoy this background noise and enjoy this piece of untouched nature. Absolutely recommended! 

3. Sea Turtle Farm Galle Mahamodara

 

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A very nice sea turtle hatchery, the owners are very friendly and give precise information about the animals and their stories. Here, injured animals are pepped up and prepared for life in the wild and released back into their natural environment as soon as they are ready.

4. Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum Complex

 

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If you have half an hour, then visit the house of the famous writer of Sri Lanka, his books have been translated into dozens of languages. In this house, he lived and died. It’s a very interesting and lovingly designed, park-like area. Exhibitions in the halls are thematically structured and they are explained in detail by the staff. The exhibition also includes household and religious items, quite extensively. A must-see!

5. Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

The old Dutch hospital is one of the oldest buildings in the fort. It was built in the 17th century and the aim was medical care for the officers and men, as well as the employees of the Dutch India Company. This former building of the Dutch Hospital has been renovated in accordance with the preservation of historical monuments and houses art shops and good restaurants. 

6. Dutch Reformed Church

This church is located in Galle in the fort. It is also called the Groote Kerk and was built in 1755 by the Dutch on the highest point within the fort in order to have a reserve for impending water masses. The construction was initiated by the governor Casparus de Jong and his wife, as a thank you for the birth of their daughter, which they had waited so long for. Glass windows were used under the British.

Where To Stay

Budget Hotel

Bethel Villa

Set in Galle, 1.9 km from Galle International Cricket Stadium and 2.3 km from Dutch Church Galle, Bethel Villa offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, a shared lounge, and a garden. A continental breakfast is available every morning at the homestay. There is also a bicycle rental service available.

Price: Starts at $13 per night for a Deluxe Double Room, add $3 for taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Luxury Hotel

Le Grand Galle By Asia Leisure

Set in Galle, 300 m from Galle International Cricket Stadium, Le Grand Galle By Asia Leisure has a number of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a garden, and free WiFi. From a spectacular view of the ocean and the iconic UNESCO Heritage site, Galle Fort to invigorating architecture, plush interiors, lavish suites with private plunge pools, and the finest-in-class service, Le Grand is truly yours. All rooms have a private bathroom with a hairdryer, while certain rooms come with a balcony. The daily breakfast offers a continental, buffet, or Full English/Irish option. The restaurant at the hotel specializes in seafood, international and local cuisine.

Price: Starts at $198 per night for a Deluxe Double Room with Sea View, add $22 for taxes and charges, breakfast included and it offers a free cancellation.

Recommended Hotel

Owl and the Pussycat Hotel & Restaurant – Level 1 Certified

Set in Unawatuna, 100 m from Mihiripenna Beach, Owl, and the Pussycat Hotel & Restaurant – Level 1 Certified offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a fitness center, and a bar. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests. At the hotel, all rooms are equipped with a desk and are fitted with air conditioning and a private bathroom. The accommodation offers a continental or American breakfast.

Price: Starts at $313 per night for Suite Melodies, taxes and charges included, breakfast included and it offers a free cancellation.

These are the possible things you can do in Galle. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Galle.

About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.​​​​​​​

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