How to scout Galle Fort in a single visit

Looking for a place to spend a day in Down South Sri Lanka? Then Galle Fort may be the spot you might be looking for. This photogenic destination boasts old-world charm and has an abundance of attractions for you to explore in just 24 hours! This itinerary captures the beauty and rich culture of the place. So dive in and plan your adventure!  

Explore the key buildings

If you ever venture to Galle, you should not miss out on visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Dutch Fort. Many guests staying at a beach hotel in Sri Lanka will not miss out on visiting this place, as it is a major landmark in Galle. A property like KK Beach Galle is less than half an hour’s drive away. There are many colonial buildings housed in the fort, which are worth exploring. One that should definitely be on your list is the Galle Lighthouse, as it is the oldest lighthouse on the island. 

Some of the other buildings scattered inside and around the fort, which you should drop by, include the Dutch Reformed Church, Old Dutch Hospital, Galle Clock Tower, All Saints' Anglican Church and Meeran Jumma Mosque. If you are a cricket enthusiast, do not miss out on visiting the Galle Cricket Stadium. You can also inspect the main gate and old gate of this location to witness its stunning fortifications with the original Dutch coat of arms. The main gate is a wondrous tunnel-like structure which leads directly to the heart of the fort. 

Engage in shopping and dining experiences

Walk along renowned avenues in Galle, such as Pedlar Street and Church Street, and you will be able to wander amid stylish buildings, tranquil spots which boast of ancient grandeur and lively shopping sites. Pedlar Street is known as the tourist hub in Galle and is lined with boutiques, art galleries, spas, cafes and small shops which sell interesting trinkets. You can purchase items like local Sri Lankan art, handlooms, and unique homeware such as candles, coconut bowls, copper art and more at KK Boutique by KK Collection, which is located on this street in a building resembling a mansion, while another outlet can be found at the opposite end of the same street.  Some of these places even conduct workshops for visitors, so you might get a chance to engage in batik making or cooking classes. 

Try the many eateries, cafes and restaurants which offer diverse food selections for you to choose from. You get many places which feature seafood prominently in their menus. There are also local delicacies which are worth trying, and a fusion of local and international dishes at some places.  Some of the food items you can sample in this area include treats like rice and curry, which will contain sambols, pickles and curries made from authentic ingredients like jackfruit, tender jackfruit, breadfruit or seafood. Hoppers and string hoppers are popular breakfast and dinner dishes. Pol rotis, which are a type of flatbread made using scraped coconut and flour, are available with chilli relish. 

Wander through the ramparts 

Your Galle visit is not complete if you have not explored the ramparts. This is an unmissable location in the city, which offers a refreshing experience when you take a stroll. You get scenic views of the ocean on one side and the city skyline on the other side. 

You can enjoy a sunset by Galle Lighthouse or the western side of the ramparts. Remember to take in the natural beauty of your surroundings while being fanned by the salty breeze travelling across the sea.  Bastions like Neptune and  Flag Rock are also interesting to note. Feast your eyes on the buildings that reflect a mix of South Asian and European architectural designs.