GALLE

Galle has always been a special place. The fortified old town has long been a piece of living history, not just enjoyed but treasured by many who visit it. Now it has a new sense of vibrancy and it Grand colonial- style hotels and villas , cute coffee shops and art and craft galleries add to it’s charms . An exploration of Galle Fort is high on the things to do list for many tourists to Sri Lanka and rightly so.

Why not explore Galle Fort with guided tour?
Your host , a 4th generation Galle Fort resident, will point out the spot where the first Portuguese boats landed to the moment the English departed. The tour is filled with stirring historic tales and will give you a deeper appreciation of the Fort’s cultural melting pot spanning more than 400 years.

If you are interested in the creative arts , we can recommend several experiences in Galle and its neighboring towns that might take your fancy. Take a whistle-stop tour of the workshop of the local artists in Ambalangoda, a small coastal city famous for its arts and crafts and take you to a local temple which houses Asia’s largest reclining Buddha. Or find out more about traditional mask making. These masks are now used in drama and dance but they were once believed to have healing and protective powers . Visit a mask workshop and learn the stages of mask making, led by a craftsman at sithuvili, a boutique arts and crafts shop within the Fort.

Beyond Galle- largely south of the town where Galle’s influence is at its strongest is a glorious collection of beaches that Royal Road To Sri Lanka was first to recognise as the Galle coast. The upmarket beach settlement of thalpe is a playground for a largely well-off clientele and the sandy beaches of Unawatuna, where more budget properties abound, koggala and Habaraduwa also have long standing appeal.

For a more energetic activity in Galle, you can cycle around the inland villages, passing rubber and cinnamon plantations, rice paddies and small villages . One of the most popular activities in Galle is to explore Galle’s interior by boat with a boat trip down the kapu Ela River.

Another of Galle highlights is our kanneliya Rainforest Trek which enables you to explore one of Sri Lanka’s lesser- known forest areas, traversed by two of Island’s main rivers. Your wildlife tracker will guide you through the forest. Complete the expedition with lunch in the center of a lake.

The lightly-visited Yatagala Raja Maha viharaya is inland from Galle. Mulgirigala Rock Temple is perched on an enormous boulder and according to Rock inscriptions, dates back almost 2,000 years. There is so much to see and do in Galle.

The creative arts music, art , dance and crafts are an integral part of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, with many traditions dating back hundreds of years. See the astonishing murals at Dambulla Cave Temple In the temple in Gampola, go shopping in Colombo for a range of traditional crafts, or see a Kandyan Cultural show and witness the historic dance styles, accompanied by complex drum beats and enlivened by the use of masks. More recently, batik has become a core feature of arts and crafts in Sri Lanka. Ambalangoda, small coastal city between Bentota and Galle, is famous for its arts and crafts and is also home to a collection of beautiful ancient temples.

Join your friendly hosts at their house in Ambalangoda for a refreshing king coconut before heading off in their mini Moke to the local temple, which is the source of inspiration for many of the artists here. Afterwards, begin your fast- paced tour of Ambalangoda’s main artistic workshops, where you will explore many traditional art forms including batik, puppetry and mask-making. Finish the experience by visiting a quiet temple perched on a hill covered in cinnamon, which houses Asia’s largest reclining Buddha, and a cup of tea at your hosts home.

Feeling active? Leave the beaches of Galle behind and explore its inland rural beauty by boat and bike. Galle’s inner landscape is covered in patches of jungle, rice paddies, Cinnamon plantations, lowland tea fields and quaint mud roads joining small villages, and is home to beautiful tropical plants and lots of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.

Begin your journey with a peaceful boat ride down the kapu ela ( River). Float slowly along canals , passing local village hamlets, rubber and cinnamon plantations and tea fields, and watch as Grey fish eagles soar through the air and water monitor lizards
Haul themselves out of the river and cling to the low branches along the bank . Disembark from the boat and mount your bikes for a 9 km cycle along narrow mud lanes between the villages, passing picturesque paddy fields and small villages with markets selling vibrant local fruits and vegetables. Stop along the way in a wattle- and – daub hut for a cup of herbal tea and traditional hoppers cooked over a fire. Before getting back on your bike and cycling to the pick- up point. If you are tired, you can be driven form here.

Located down church street in Galle Fort, the Dutch Reformed church was completed in 1755 and has a gabled roof on the eastern and western walls. Built on the site of an earlier Portuguese convent, this church also has a small graveyard within its premises.

Galle Fort is a UNESCO world Heritage site, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and then further developed by the Dutch and the British over the next 350 years. It covers nearly 4sqkm and is protected by 12 bastions and connecting ramparts. During the early 18th century, the old Dutch Gate was the entrance to the Fort, but subsequently the British built the Main Gate is still used today. Building of interests include the Dutch Reformed Church, all saints church, Amangalla Hotel ( formerly the New oriental Hotel), the lighthouse and bell tower. The Dutch also developed what was then an innovative tide-based sewage system within the Fort.

Galle Fort is now comprised of a maze of narrow roads lined with small houses, restaurants, shops, villas and boutique hotels and is an utterly enchanting place to explore. The thick, high ramparts that protects and distinguish the Fort are today used for romantic evening strolls and early morning power- walks and offers wonderful views of the Indian Ocean. Wander through the quaint streets and explore the various art galleries, shops and eateries, or go on our Galle Fort Walking Tour to discover more about the history of the Fort and its vibrant, present-day multi cultural society.

Galle’s rural inland landscape is largely unfrequented by tourists who visit this region, as they are often more preoccupied with visiting the UNESCO world Heritage site of Galle Fort, or relaxing on the popular beaches along the Galle coast. However, the countryside around Galle is truly picturesque and is particularly nice to explore if you are looking to discover the authentic Sri Lanka which is something hidden on the tourist trail cycle past lush green paddy fields dotted with water buffalo, bright white egrets and vibrant kingfishers, sloping tea plantations, rice field , small villages, Temples and colourful gardens growing species and fruits.

There are a range of cycling routes to try , all varying levels of difficulty, although none are too strenuous, and helmets, Bikes, water and a support vehicle are all provided. The easiest is the paddy Trail , a gentle 12km circular route which begins and ends at wijaya beach, a popular beach cafe in quite Thalpe. The paddy and Lake Trail ( 26km) is an extended version of the paddy Trail, incorporating a beautiful additional section along the shores of koggala Lake . The kahanda kanda Ride , which ends with either a decadent lunch or sunset cocktails at the luxurious kahanda kanda, is a non strenuous trail through the paddy fields which also skirts koggala Lake.

One of the most popular holiday destinations in Sri Lanka, Galle Fort is a UNESCO world Heritage site which once served as a key trading port for the European colonial powers that occupied most of the island for over 300 years between the 16th and 19th centuries, although first built by the Portuguese, it is commonly referred to as the Dutch Fort, as it was they who heavily fortified in the 1700s to include Ramparts constructed from granite and coral, 14 bastions and cannons to protect the port from invading ships. When the British took control in the 19th century they constructed a variety of administrative buildings, as well as the New oriental Hotel ( now called Amangalla), one of the first hotel in Asia.

Wander through streets lined with the relics of the various European powers, which are brought to life by your host’s intimate knowledge of the Fort’s colonial past. Explore the Dutch Ramparts, 17th century church and historic arch engraved with both the Dutch and British crests, and the various administrative buildings left behind by the British, including a printing press and post office. See one of the most historic hotels in Sri Lanka which dates back to the 19th century and a bell tower dating back to the 16th century, before wending your way to the Ramparts. After hearing many fascinating myths and stories about the Fort’s intriguing history, your host will describe the impact of the 2004 tsunami and how it affected the modern day culture of Galle Fort, before finishing the tour at the iconic lighthouse which overlooks a restful Japanese peace pagoda.

Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s most well known holiday destinations, a UNESCO world Heritage site with a rich history and alluring present day culture which is a melting pot of different nationalities and religions and combines old traditions with modern living. Go on a guided tour of Galle Fort with a dynamic host who was brought up in this unique town he has many stories to share about its fascinating heritage, from the early traders to colonial invaders, and will introduce you to some of the people who inhabit the Fort today.

Wander through the criss-crossing streets, lined with arty boutiques, restaurants and old buildings which remain from the Dutch and British colonial periods, and observe the stunning heritage architecture and tranquil way of life here whilst listening to tales of the Fort’s past . Your host begins by describing the part the Fort played in connecting Sri Lanka with the early Persian , Greek , Roman and Arab traders, before sharing thrilling legends of historic battles once fought for control of this key seaport. End the Walt by meeting some of the locals who live here, perhaps sampling some traditional Sri Lankan cuisine or browsing the gallery of one of the island’s most prominent craftsman.

Whilst many have only heard of sinharaja Rainforest, Sri Lanka is actually home to two forest reserves. Kanneliya Rainforest, which spans over 100sqkm, was also designated as a biospheres Reserve in 2004 by UNESCO and its preservation will play an important part in nature conservation in Sri Lanka. Kanneliya is one of the richest areas in Asia in terms of its flora and houses many animals and plants species native to Sri Lanka, including 20 of the island’s 26 endemic birds, as well as 78 small villages which lie hidden between the trees. Kanneliya Rainforest is just 35km from Galle and is a must-see for nature lovers visiting this region.

Trek through the Rainforest with your wildlife tracker and guide, shaded from the sun by the thick canopy above, and keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, birds, chameleons lurking amongst the tropical undergrowth. There are also a vast range of fascinating trees and flowers hidden in the forest which you guide will help you identify, as well as several previous medicinal plants. Stop for refreshments along the way – tea and cake , cooked by the wife of your local tracker , served at a table placed in the shallows of an idyllic lake.

Masks have long been an important part of Sri Lankan culture and this hands on craft session allows you to closely engage with the long held tradition of mask- carving in Sri Lanka. Today , traditional masks are used mostly in dramas and dance performances, but in rural areas they are still believed to have healing and protective powers. After an introduction to Sri Lankan masks- the various types and their different uses- you can have a go at carving a kolam mask yourself. Your host will help you draw outlines of typical designs and demonstrate the carving techniques for each section, and assist when needed. The experience is held at sithuvili, a boutique arts and crafts in Galle Fort which is owned by your host, a craftsman who has been a supplier for Barefoot in Colombo for nearly 20 years. Woodcarving requires tools which are sharp and need careful handling. This experience therefore is limited for children aged 13 years and above. If however, parents insist on younger children trying their hand at carving, then this age limit will be brought down to 8 years, provided they are assisted by an adult.

Enjoy a tranquil yoga class in beautiful surroundings at one of three secluded venues along Sri Lanka’s Galle coast, led by an experienced practitioner who has been a qualified yoga instructor for many years and has taught all over the world. Your teacher is from Australia and has successfully developed her own style of yoga which gives others to tools to create dynamic sequences suited to their physical and mental needs at any given time she has even published a book about it!.

This private 1.5 class will take place in the peaceful location of either a tree-top yoga Shala , your teachers house ( which is set in glorious gardens) or the privacy of your own villa, and will be tailored to your specific preferences, both spiritual and physical. She can also introduce you to her own personal yoga style if you are interested to explore new practices. A yoga mat and water will be provided, as well as the use of showers, swimming pool and towels if you choose to do the session at House or Sri Lanka’s yoga Shala.

Tea has been an iconic part of Sri Lanka’s landscape and culture since the mid-19th century, when Scotsman James Taylor started the first tea plantation in the island and began an industry which would change the face of the hill country forever. Sri Lanka’s tea-covered hills are spectacular to behold, but if you don’t have time to visit that region and are interested in exploring the historic Ceylon tea industry, a visit to this south coast tea factory is must.

Ceylon tea can be loosely separated into two types up country and low country. Low country tea , grown alone the small foothills close to Galle, is stronger in colour and taste. Discover more about the types of Sri Lankan tea, it’s History and how it is grown in this region during an insightful guided walk of the plantation. As you wander, look out for plants such as lemongrass and the versatile jack fruit and brightly colored peacock moving through the underground- if you go in the morning you will also be able to see sari- clad tea pluckers morning methodically through the rows of plants, expertly selecting the right leaves. Afterwards, visit the modern factory to see how the tea is manufactured and transformed.

This activity is best done in the morning, when you can observe the tea- pluckers and the manufacture of the leaves at the factory.

Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s most well known holiday destinations, a UNESCO world Heritage site with a rich history and alluring present day culture which is a melting pot of different nationalities and religions and combines old traditions with modern living. Go on a guided tour of Galle Fort with a dynamic host who was brought up in this unique town he has many stories to share about its fascinating heritage, from the early traders to colonial invaders, and will introduce you to some of the people who inhabit the Fort today.

Wander through the criss-crossing streets, lined with arty boutiques, restaurants and old buildings which remain from the Dutch and British colonial periods, and observe the stunning heritage architecture and tranquil way of life here whilst listening to tales of the Fort’s past . Your host begins by describing the part the Fort played in connecting Sri Lanka with the early Persian , Greek , Roman and Arab traders, before sharing thrilling legends of historic battles once fought for control of this key seaport. End the Walt by meeting some of the locals who live here, perhaps sampling some traditional Sri Lankan cuisine or browsing the gallery of one of the island’s most prominent craftsman.

Learn how to make rice and curry, Sri Lanka’s delicious and underrated traditional cuisine, which is overshadowed on the international culinary stage by the food of its neighbors, such as India. Although it sounds simple, rice and curry is actually a complex dish comprised of seven different elements, including curries, spiced vegetables in a variety of textures, Sambols, chutneys and rice.

Head on to a village vendor where you can explore a variety of fruits and vegetables which you can choose from and purchase. Sri Lanka is home to a vibrant renge of produce, many of which you may never have seen before. Your host will show you some of the most important ingredients in traditional Sri Lankan cooking and explain their uses, whilst selecting the fresh fruits and vegetables that he will be using to prepare your meal.

Make your way to the wattle and daub hut where this experience takes place. Surrounded by paddy fields, this is an utterly tranquil and authentic backdrop for your cooking class . Watch your chef prepare a range of traditional Sri Lankan dishes and learn how the locals make coconut milk by cracking open and scraping out the coconuts. Afterwards, feast on fresh, authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry comprised of eight different dishes served in a lotus leaf. If you are feeling adventurous, eat the local way using just your right hand.

Just inland from Galle is Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya, a fine place to go and visit for Temple lovers. This temple is built around and within giant boulder-like rock formations. Quiet and little visited, the temple looks out over paddy fields and small hamlets. It won’t take much time to visit but Yatagala is interesting if as only a comparison to bigger, famous temple in Sri Lanka.

Galle offers a range of cafes, bars and restaurants within the ancient Dutch Fort and also in its delightful beach village of Unawatuna. Choice ranges from simple fresh seafood and Sri Lankan rice and curries to five star fusion cuisine. Galle Fort Hotel, Amangala And Fort printers are all exquisite boutique hotels situated within the Galle Fort and offers alluring fine dining. There are also a few charming cafes within the Galle Fort set in refurbished heritage villas. A few miles along the coast, Unawatuna has a selection of characterful beach bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood in relaxed atmosphere where you can also take a dip in the sea to cool off. If you want livelier still, head 25 minutes north ot Hikkaduwa, Galle’s bohemian beach satellite.

• Fortaleza Restaurant, 9 church cross street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0912233415

Fortaleza , a boutique hotel down church cross street, has a charming verandah restaurant and bar overlooking a central courtyard . An original wall within the restaurant that dates back 200 years, still remains and provides a unique back drop. Hours can be spent here relaxing with a good book or catching up with your friends. Serves fresh seafood dishes, signature table BBQs to fruit juices, home made desserts and ice cream. Also serves beer and wine.

• crepe ology, 53 Leyn Baan Street , Galle Fort.

Specialises in savoury and desert crepes, fruit juices , chilled drinks, tea and coffee. Open for breakdast, lunch and dinner. Has an indoor a/c dining area as well as a roof top pavilion which is charming at night. There is also a family dining room with a kid’s play area.

•The Living Room by TPV , 51 Lighthouse street, Galle Fort.

A characterful lounge and bar opened from 6.00to 11.00 .pm . Serves wine , beer and cocktails. Also serves a few snacks to have with drinks.

• Heritage cafe 53 Lighthouse Street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0912246668

Located in the corner of Lighthouse and pedlar street, this is a courtyard cafe that serves up Sri Lankan and western dishes, sandwiches, fresh juices, tea and coffee.

• Barista Lavazza cafe 53 Lighthouse Street, Galle Fort.

Located in the same heritage building as the Heritage cafe , the Barista Lavazza serves a range of coffees ,savoury pastries, brownies and muffins.

• pedlar’s inn, 92 pedlar Street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0773141477.

Serves tasty sandwiches, wraps, home made chocolate brownies and cakes, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Delifrance Galle Fort, 50 pedlar Street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0914946396

Located at ODEL luv SL , Delifrance serves up a tenge of coffee, sandwiches, and pastries.

• serendipity Arts cafe, 100 pedlar Street, Galle Fort.
Tel : 0779525602.

A family owned cafe which is famous for its hoppers, fish curry , home made soups and desserts. For those interested in Galle Fort’s Heritage, inquire within regarding walking tours of the Fort led by juliet coombe, author of Around the Fort in 80 Lives.

• Galle Fort Hotel, 28 church street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0912232870

The small bar- cum- verandah cafe at Galle Fort Hotel is a social hub and popular for light snacks ,
Brownies, Lavazza coffee and cocktails. Galle Fort Hotel was the winner of the 2007 UNESCO award of distinction for heritage conservation.

• Royal Dutch Cafe 72 Leyan Baan Street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0771774949

Owned by Fazal who has plenty of interesting stories to tell of his life within the Galle Fort, Royal Dutch cafe serves home baked cakes and tea.

• Rampart Hotel, 31 Rampart Street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0914380103

Have magnificent sea views over the fort’s Ramparts . Good for people watching and taking in the sunset with a drink. Serves snacks and rice and curries.

Outside Galle Fort

• Dick’s Bar, 18 upper Dickson Road, Galle.
Tell : 0914380275

Located within the central courtyard of the sun Houses. Dick’s bar was voted by Condé Nast Travelers as one of the Top 25 new bars of the world in 2007 Tapas, shepherds pie, fish and chicken dishes are served here along with alcoholic beverages. Advance booking required.

• The Lady Hill , 29 Upper Dickson Road, Galle. Tel: 0912244322

The rooftop restaurant at Lady Hill offers the best views over Galle. Ideal for sunset cocktails and snacks.

Fusion Cuisine/ Fine Dining

• Amangalla, 10 church street, Galle Fort.
Tel : 0912233388

The most expensive five- star in the Fort, Amangalla ‘s dining room provides an intimate setting for dining with a colonial accent including Dutch period antiques , crisp white linen and and antique silverware. Indulge in a three course lunch or a leisurely dinner from a menu of international fusion dishes . A wide range of wines are served here.

• Galle Fort Hotel, 28, church street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 0912232870

Fusion food with Asian influences in a seductive setting makes Galle Fort Hotel a sought after venue for dining. Renowned for their four – course dinners served in the courtyard amidst Frangipani Trees and overlooking the swimming pool. Described by Gourmet Traveller as the ‘ the best food on the island ‘ Advance booking is required.

• Fort printers, 39 pedlar Street, Galle Fort.
Tel: 091 2247977

An 18th century colonial property, now a luxurious boutique hotel, serves up sumptuous fusion cuisine at its poolside restaurant.An imaginative menu with Sri Lankan, Eastern And Mediterranean Inspired specialties. Advance booking is required.

Outside Galle Fort:

• Lighthouse Hotel, Dadella, Galle
Tel: 0912224017.

The Anchor bar and grill ( lounge and outdoor terrace) serves good quality western snacks, with children’s menu,the cinnamon Room is a fine dining restaurant with a good reputation, cardamom cafe, which is the main dining area, offers a range of Sri Lanka and western dishes from their a la cartel menu and daily buffets.

• sun Houses, 18 Upper Dickson Road, Galle.
Tel: 0914380275

Dine on the verandah in the shade of flowering Frangipani trees. Sun Houses in popular for its good food, fine wines and stylish and relaxed ambience. Advance booking is required.

• Tamarind Hill, Dadella, Galle,
Tel: 0912226568/9

Situated down a narrow road opposite the Lighthouse Hotel, Tamarind Hill is a magnificent 200 year old southern home now an exquisite boutique hotel. Traditional Sri Lankan rice and curries and international cuisine is served. There are two bars one indoors and the other overlooking the swimming pool serving refreshing cocktails and a range of wines. Cuisine includes Sri Lankan, Thai, Japanese and western dishes. Advance booking is required.

• Fortress, Matara Road, koggala.
Tel: 0914380909

A stylish luxury hotel with a fine- dining restaurant serving fusion cuisine and bar overlooking star lit pool. Dining is also possible in there is a Tea Lounge located on the upper floor where guests can sample numerous varieties of world renowned Sri Lanka teas.

• kahanda Kanda Angulugaha, Galle.
Tel: 0912286717, 0773429555

An exquisite private villa set on a 10 acre working tea estate, just 30 minutes from Galle Fort. Kahanda kanda’s open – side dining pavilion is situated amidst lotus filled ponds and has sweeping views over the tea estate and koggala Lake. Sumptuous fusion cuisine, Sri Lankan rice and curries, Thai and western dishes are served here. Advance booking is required.

• Era Beach , Thalpe, Galle,

A luxurious eight rooms beach side boutique hotel unfolds within two beautifully- refurbished colonial- period bungalows.The Restaurant here welcomes non-resident guests and serves a range of dishes with a Mediterranean/Asian influence. The Lounge Bar serves a full range of drinks and Tapas style snacks. Era Beach is 10 minutes drive from Galle city. Advance booking is required.

• indisch, Ahangama

Indisch is an exquisite five bedroom Beachside boutique hotel in Ahangama, 15 Kms south of Galle. Inspired by the old indisch world of the East Indies which spread to Ceylon .this boutique hotel was designed with a strong colonial style flavor. South East Asian and Western cuisine is served here prepared with fresh vegetables and seafood purchased directly from the local fishermen. Sri Lankan rice and curries are cooked the traditional way in clay pots over a firewood hearth . Advance booking is required.

Beachside Restaurant

• cafe Ceylon, Matara Road kabalana
Tel: 0773860086

A garden cafe set just across the road from the beaches of kabalana. Serves up fresh seafood including lobser, prawns, and oysters, sandwiches, wraps, fresh juices , tea and coffee. Located close to a popular surf point in kabalana.

• kingfisher Restaurant And Lounge, yaddehimulla Road , Unawatuna,
Tel: 091 2248210

Right on the Unawatuna beach.serves up fresh lobster and mixed seafood platters, Turkish kebabs from the grill and a range of wraps.

• Wijaya Beach , Dalawalla,Unawatuna .
Tel: 0777903431

A popular beach bar that serves up fresh seafood and fusion dishes. Wijaya Beach has a great ambience and perfect sea views. Swimming is possible here during the season and is a great spot for relaxing with a drink.

•Why beach, 1050 Galle- Matara Road, Thalpe
Tel: 0776980000

Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Serves fusion dishes and light snacks, fresh juices and cocktails are served here. Spend the morning here relaxing on a sun bed or stroll down the beach and take a dip in the sea.