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.
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.
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.
More a "hillock" than a mountain, the views from the top are stunning nonetheless. Make sure to visit the serene Peace Pagoda as well.
Aboard the Sri Lanka Navy's passenger craft "Princess of Lanka", you can view whales as they frolic in the sea.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Driving from Colombo to Galle, take the E01 southwards.
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.
For a taste of history along with luxury, there's no place quite like the Tamarind Hill. Modest but comfortable accommodations await you at Templeberg Villa. For a spot that's light on the pocket, book a stay at the Rampart View Guest House.
Bataganvila - close to the main hub of Galle, this neighborhood features many residential homes and the Bickay Nature Reserve.
Megalle - right on the coast of the water is this sub-district of Galle, which features homes, schools, and stunning views from the Closenberg Hotel.
Galle Fort - an old fortified city that includes many stores, the Galle Lighthouse and the British Queen's House.
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.
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.
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.
Within Galle Fort is some of the best shopping. You'll find local shops full of hand-woven textiles, artworks, and jewelers.
A quart of milk costs LKR160 and a dozen eggs costs LKR185.
Head to the Lighthouse Hotel where you can enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan, all-you-can-eat-style buffet for just LKR1,200.