You're Going to Love Galle
Galle is the place to go when you need to return to a simpler pace of life and the rush of Colombo has you longing for beautiful coastlines, delectable food, and traditions of craft passed down through the generations. There is a distinct Portuguese influence here in the architecture, temples, and cuisine.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Galle
1. Walk along the Galle Fort's Wall
This majestic structure has become the heart and soul of Galle, with commercial stores and eateries. You can also take a stroll along the Fort's walls or its southern ramparts at sunset.
2. Trek in the Kanneliya Rain Forest Reserve
Designated by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, this lush forest is home to varieties of flora as well as monkeys, chameleons, and extensive birdlife. It's best to visit under the guidance of a wildlife tracker.
3. Climb the Rumassala Mountain
More a "hillock" than a mountain, the views from the top are stunning nonetheless. Make sure to visit the serene Peace Pagoda as well.
4. Go Whale Watching
Aboard the Sri Lanka Navy's passenger craft "Princess of Lanka", you can view whales as they frolic in the sea.
5. Hit the Beaches
You may be relaxing beside a fisherman and his family but the beaches in Galle are no less fun. Expect to find a couple of waterfront or seaside cafes as well for when you get hungry post-swim!
When to Visit Galle
Estimated hotel price
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The best time to visit Galle is in the spring, from February to April. There is low rainfall and pleasant temperatures that hover around 73.
How to Get to Galle
Plane
Koggala Airport (KCT), while close, is only host to military planes and domestic flights. The closest international hub is Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB) in Colombo. From here, take a bus or train to get further to Galle.
Train
Using the train from Colombo to Galle is one of the most comfortable and economical options. You'll leave Maradana Station so use a tuk tuk for LKR200 to get from downtown Colombo to here. Then, take the train for LKR180 to get to Galle. Or, you can take the Rajdhani Express and pre-book a first-class air-conditioned seat for LKR1,100.
Car
Driving from Colombo to Galle, take the E01 southwards.
Bus
Take a Southern Express Buses leaving Maharagama to get to Galle for LKR375 - LKR390. There are non-AC and AC-buses available. Do note: drivers may not take you if you have too much luggage.
Where to stay in popular areas of Galle
Most booked hotels in Galle
How to Get Around Galle
Public Transportation
There is no coordinated public transport system in Galle so most people get around on foot, since it's quite accessible, or use tuk-tuks and auto-rickshaws.
Taxi
You can also use metered taxis to get around. If the driver doesn't negotiate a fixed price with you, expect to pay a flat rate of LKR50 and LKR28 thereafter.
Car
Have the place you're staying help you arrange a rental car service. Fares include the driver and can range from LKR20 to LKR35 per mile.
The Cost of Living in Galle
Shopping Streets
Within Galle Fort is some of the best shopping. You'll find local shops full of hand-woven textiles, artworks, and jewelers.
Groceries and Other
A quart of milk costs LKR160 and a dozen eggs costs LKR185.
Where to Eat in Galle
Head to the Lighthouse Hotel where you can enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan, all-you-can-eat-style buffet for just LKR1,200.