Galle Tour Packages

Galle is a beautiful coastal city in southern Sri Lanka, known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. It is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, attracting local and foreign tourists annually. Galle is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage site, the Galle Fort, a 17th-century Dutch fortification still stands tall in the city today. Galle has many other historic landmarks, such as the National Maritime Museum and the Dutch Reformed Church. 

Visitors to Galle can also enjoy the beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, and cultural experiences, such as traditional dance performances and local cuisine. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and warm hospitality, Galle is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Sri Lanka.

Best Experiences in Galle

1. Take a guided bike tour: Galle is a great city to explore by bike. Several bike tour companies offer guided tours around the city and surrounding areas. It's a great way to exercise and see some of the lesser-known areas of Galle.

2. Learn to surf at Midigama: Midigama is a small surfing town about 30 kilometers from Galle. It's a great place for beginners to learn how to surf, with several surf schools and rental shops in the area.

3. Take a cooking class: Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious and unique. Several cooking schools in Galle offer classes where visitors can learn how to make traditional Sri Lankan dishes using fresh local ingredients.

4. Visit a tea plantation: Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, and there are several tea plantations located in the hills near Galle. Visitors can tour the plantation, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy a cup of fresh tea.

5. Watch a traditional dance performance: Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage, and traditional dance performances are a great way to experience it. Galle has several venues that offer nightly dance performances.

6. Go whale watching: Mirissa, about 40 kilometers from Galle, is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Visitors can take a boat tour and see several species of whales and dolphins.

7. Take a day trip to Yala National Park: Yala National Park is located about 2.5 hours from Galle and is home to various wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles. Visitors can book a guided tour of the park and see some incredible wildlife Sri Lanka offers.

8. Tree Swing: Located in the scenic town of Unawatuna, just a few kilometers from Galle, the tree swing is suspended from a tall palm tree and overlooks the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Visitors can sit on the swing and soar through the air, feeling the wind rush through their hair as they enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and the lush greenery that surrounds the area. 

9. Visiting the Galle Fort: One of the best things about visiting the fort in Galle is the opportunity to experience the unique blend of colonial architecture and Sri Lankan culture. Walking through the fort's ramparts offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding areas. Visitors can explore the fort's many attractions, including the Dutch Reformed Church, the Maritime Museum, and the Galle Lighthouse. 

Places to Visit in Galle

1. Galle Fort: The Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic landmark that dates back to the Dutch colonial period. Visitors can explore the old streets, museums, and art galleries and enjoy stunning ocean view’s from the ramparts.

2. Dutch Reformed Church: Located inside the Galle Fort, the Dutch Reformed Church is an impressive historical church that dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and learn about the church's history.

3. National Maritime Museum: The National Maritime Museum is located inside the Galle Fort and showcases the maritime history of Sri Lanka. Visitors can see a variety of exhibits, including ship models, marine equipment, and maps.

4. Unawatuna Beach: Unawatuna Beach is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach just a few kilometers from the Galle Fort. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the soft sand.

5. Jungle Beach: Jungle Beach is a secluded beach near Rumassala Hill, about 10 kilometers from Galle. Lush greenery surrounds the beach and offers visitors a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

6. Kanneliya Forest Reserve: The Kanneliya Forest Reserve is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve about 30 kilometers from Galle. The reserve is home to a wide range of flora and fauna that includes several endemic species.

7. Japanese Peace Pagoda: The Japanese Peace Pagoda is located on Rumassala Hill and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about the pagoda's history and enjoy a peaceful and meditative atmosphere.

How Many Days Do You Need to See Galle?

To truly experience the best of Galle, it is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in the city. This will give you enough time to explore the city's historic landmarks, enjoy the beautiful beaches, and indulge in some of the cultural experiences. 

However, suppose you are looking to do some of the more adventurous activities, such as whale watching or visiting Yala National Park. In that scenario, you may want to consider spending 4-5 days in the area to ensure you have enough time to fully experience all that Galle has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Galle

The ideal time to visit Galle is between December and April, when the weather is dry and sunny. During this period, visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches and explore historic landmarks without being affected by monsoon rains. 

The shoulder season of May and November can also be a good time to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but there is a higher chance of rain. May to September should be avoided as the southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, which can limit outdoor activities.

Why Should You Buy Packages for Galle?

Buying packages for Galle can be beneficial as it allows you to enjoy the best experiences and attractions the city offers conveniently and cost-effectively. Many packages include transportation, accommodation, and tours to the city's most popular destinations. This saves you the hassle of planning everything alone and ensures you make the most of your time in Galle. Some packages may offer unique experiences, such as cooking classes, tea plantation visits, whale-watching tours or take a safari in Yala National Park, that may be difficult to organise.