33 Things to Do In Galle

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Museum (4)
Wildlife (3)
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1. Galle Fort

0 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Highlights: Galle National Museum, Dutch Reformed Church, (Read More) All Saints Church, National Maritime Museum, Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, Historical Mansion Museum, Galle Lighthouse, Shri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple, Meeran Jumma Masjid, Flag Rock, Galle Clocktower

The Galle Fort is a well-preserved historical fortress and the main part of Galle. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a fortress wall that offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Visitors can explore the Dutch Reformed Church, the Old Dutch Hospital (now a shopping and dining complex), and various colonial-era houses and mans (Read More)ions inside the fort.

Tours starting from
₹905

Fun For Kids 4.5 /5

3 km from city center

Aquarium

Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre is a family-run conservation centre rescuing turtles in danger of losing their lives to fishing industries when caught in nets or hunted for meat. The centre features tanks for injured and newly-hatched turtles and is currently home to 40 turtles of four different species. In addition, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the farms and incubation centres.

Tours starting from
₹3,260

4.6 /5

3 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Galle Fort Lighthouse, one of the oldest in Sri Lanka, is a coastal lighthouse inside Galle Fort. Initially built in 1848, it is one of the most visited attractions of the fort due to its picturesque surroundings, perfect for a serene stroll or an Instagram-worthy photo. It is important to note that visitors are not allowed to climb to the top of the lighthouse.

4.5 /5

3 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

The Dutch Reformed Church, also known as De Groote Kerk, is located inside the Galle Fort. Built in 1755, it is the oldest Protestant church in Sri Lanka and continues to be in use today. It is mostly renowned for its fascinating interiors. This piece of colonial architecture houses interesting relics as a testament to its long history, such as an organ, pulpit, and stunning stained glasswork.

Tours starting from
₹1,281

Galle Travel Packages

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7 Nights / 8 Days

Culture, Hill Country, Wild life & Beach Escape - Discover Sri Lanka

Sigiriya(1N) → Kandy(1N) → Nuwara Eliya(2N) → Yala National...

$490/person

7 Nights / 8 Days

Sri Lanka Highlights: 7-Night Cultural, Wildlife, and Beach Adventure

Habarana(1N) → Kandy(2N) → Ella(1N) → Tissamaharama(1N) &ra...

Sold By: Sleek Holidays(5.0 )

$400/person

7 Nights / 8 Days

7 Nights 8 Days Ramayana Special with Trincomalee & Katharagama

Sigiriya(1N) → Trincomalee(1N) → Kandy(1N) → Nuwara Eliya(1...

₹48,800/person

5 Nights / 6 Days

5 Nights 6 Days Ramayana Special with Katharagama

Kandy(1N) → Nuwara Eliya(1N) → Kataragama(1N) → Galle(1N) &...

Sold By: Sign Of Lanka (pv...(4.1 )

₹50,725/person

8 Nights / 9 Days

The Twilight Escape in Sri Lanka: 8 Nights / 9 Days Tour

Kandy(1N) → Nuwara Eliya(1N) → Dambulla(2N) → Yala National...

₹34,500/person

6 Nights / 7 Days

Legends of Ramayana - Sri Lanka

Kandy(1N) → Nuwara Eliya(2N) → Ella(1N) → Galle(2N)

$650/person

View All Packages For Galle

5. Old Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Top Things To Do 4.4 /5

3 km from city center

Shopping Market

The Old Dutch Hospital is Galle’s longest-standing Dutch colonial building, now converted into a high-end shopping and dining precinct. The complex features two central courtyards and long colonnaded verandas with multi-cuisine restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and souvenir stores.

Tours starting from
₹1,281

Great For Family Outing 4.5 /5

0 km from city center

Beach

Unawatuna is one of the most popular attractions in Sri Lanka, attracting tourists and locals to its everlasting beauty. This banana-shaped beach, with its golden sand, sparkling water, and lush palm trees, is the perfect place to relax. It can be reached from Galle by a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride.

Tours starting from
₹2,092

7. National Maritime Museum Galle

4.3 /5

3 km from city center

Museum

Listed by UNESCO, the National Maritime Archaeology Museum occupies a 1671-built Dutch warehouse above the Galle Fort Old Gate. The museum introduces Sri Lanka’s history of navigation, marine life, and anthropology, with 3,600 archaeological exhibits. The displays include sea-faring, maritime trade, scaled-down whale models, natural coral beds, deep sea fish, and life-size dioramas of traditional (Read More)fishing.

Tours starting from
₹6,157

4.7 /5

0 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

The Peace Pagoda is on the hillside near Unawatuna Beach and is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The Mahayana sect built the Peace Pagoda as an initiative to establish peace in the Sri Lankan conflict zone. The Pagoda is a spectacle to witness, especially when you view it from the side of Unawatuna, which makes it look like it has grown out of the jungle.

4.3 /5

3 km from city center

Galle is much more than the historic fort and its attractions. The Old Dutch Market in Galle is one of the unique remnants of colonial times. As the name suggests, it is a marketplace, popular amongst locals as well as tourists for selling some of the freshest and exotic produce in all of Galle.

Tours starting from
₹2,989

4.7 /5

3 km from city center

Mosque

Sat next to the Utrecht lighthouse, Meeran Jumma Masjid is the only mosque inside Galle Fort. With an alluring whitewashed facade, this mosque has been operational since the 1750s. Unlike other mosques with Islamic details, Jumma Masjid showcases Victorian and Baroque architecture, a European-style atrium, and stained glass windows like churches. Separate prayer areas for women and men are availab (Read More)le.

4.3 /5

3 km from city center

Museum

Occupying a single-storey colonnaded mansion built in 1656, the National Museum of Galle is Galle Fort’s oldest remaining Dutch building. The museum upholds Sri Lanka’s Portuguese, Chinese and Dutch heritage with displays of traditional furniture, weapons, turtle shell ware, ebony, ivory, melamine and bronzeware, lacework, statuettes, gold-plated life-size statues of Chinese Admiral Zheng He and F (Read More)axian.

Tours starting from
₹6,157

4.2 /5

3 km from city center

Waterfront

Flag Rock Bastion, situated in the southernmost corner of Galle Fort is a historic site and part of the Galle Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bastion was built by the Dutch in the 17th century and was used as a lookout point to defend the fort from naval attacks. Visitors can explore the fort’s ramparts, including Flag Rock, which offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the (Read More) surrounding coastline.

Tours starting from
₹1,281

13. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

4.6 /5

0 km from city center

Wildlife

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is one of the very few virgin rainforests in the world, which is why it is one of the UNESCO World Heritage! The unique relation of flora and fauna in this forest makes it one of the hotspots in the world. The forest is only 13 km in the stretch and around 7 to 8 km from north to south. The entire forest has remained untouched till date due to its inaccessibility.

Tours starting from
₹7,686

Great For Family Outing 4.4 /5

14 km from city center

Wildlife

Turtle hatchery of Koggala opened in the year 1996 on the fringes of Koggala town. It is a turtle farm which is a crucial breeding spot for the endangered sea turtles and also an care centre for crippled, blinded and wounded turtles. This place is open for public visit and the money from the entrance fee is used in the breeding, feeding and treatment of the turtles.

Tours starting from
₹3,260

Top Things To Do 4.6 /5

0 km from city center

Wildlife

Mirissa is hugely famous for its whale watching and dolphin watching activities. Whale watching in Mirissa allows visitors to enjoy watching them swim and play in their natural habitat. It is a completely unforgettable experience and a must-see for kids.

Tours starting from
₹905

Hidden Gem 4.5 /5

9 km from city center

Beach

Thalpe Beach, located near Galle on Sri Lanka's southern coast, is a serene and picturesque destination known for its clear turquoise waters and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is less crowded compared to other nearby beaches, making it ideal for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying stunning sunsets. Thalpe is also popular for snorkeling and has a few boutique hotels and guesthouses offering a tranqu (Read More)il stay.

4.6 /5

3 km from city center

Historical Site

Constructed on the site of the former guard room, Galle Fort Clock Tower is a longstanding landmark within the ramparts of Galle Fort. Surrounded by old Dutch ruins, this four-storey-tall stone monument with a large clock face hails from 1883 and overlooks the oceanfront central Moon Bastion and Galle Cricket Stadium. There is a scenic stone ramp and walkway alongside.

Tours starting from
₹905

4.4 /5

0 km from city center

Museum

The Historical Mansion Museum is inside the Galle Fort and is more of an antique shop than a museum. It belongs to a single family and has a great display of their family antique collection. It exhibits a collection of miscellaneous items ranging from colonial artifacts to other antiquities - with many things available for sale.

4.7 /5

14 km from city center

Museum

Once the home of the famous Sri Lankan author, Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum sits amidst gardens dotted with tropics on Galle-Matara Main Road. The main building features stunning displays depicting the lives of Lankan fishermen, colonial crockery, traditional masks, ancient Jewellery, a Buddhist culture exhibit, and the author’s bedroom and study.

Top Things To Do 4.3 /5

4 km from city center

Beach

One of the lesser-known treasures of Unawatuna is Jungle Beach. Owing to the long shoreline of blond sands and excellent underwater visibility, this beach in Unawatuna is popular for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. There are several small seafood shacks, eateries, and bars here.

Tours starting from
₹2,092

Top Things To Do 4.2 /5

0 km from city center

Surfing in Galle, Sri Lanka, offers a great experience for both beginners and experienced surfers, thanks to its beautiful beaches and consistent waves. Popular surf spots include Unawatuna Beach, just a short distance from Galle, which offers relatively gentle waves ideal for beginners, as well as more challenging breaks for advanced surfers.

Tours starting from
₹2,852

0 km from city center

Beach

When in Unawatuna, make it a point to visit the famous Dalawella beach. If you are looking for a quieter escape from the main beach, head out to the Dalawella beach. The beach is the ideal location to spend some quiet and quality time with your family or loved ones, while you relax, sunbathe and swim under the beautiful blue sky.

Tours starting from
₹2,092

4.7 /5

2 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

The Cathedral of St. Mary, Queen of the Holy Rosary, is the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Galle. Constructed in the late 1900s, St. Mary’s architecture has roots in Victorian and Neoclassical styles. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the church is characterized by stained window glasses, ornate interiors, and a peaceful environment.

4.7 /5

3 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Situated in the heart of the Dutch precinct, Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple dates back to 1889 and is Galle’s only Buddhist temple with hints of European architecture. In front of the temple is a large reclining Buddha statue, a small stupa, and an unusual bell which indicates the presence of a church at one time. The main prayer hall features stunning Buddha statues, murals and gongs.

Tours starting from
₹7,707

0 km from city center

Beach

The island of Sri Lanka brings to you beaches that are popular for their beauty and surfing spots. One such cosy beach town in Sri Lanka is Hikkaduwa. Located in south-west Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is endowed with palm trees by the shorelines, clean blue waters all this alongside the backdrop of the warm sun.

Tours starting from
₹3,471

4.5 /5

0 km from city center

Sporting Events & Stadiums

Galle International Stadium is a cricket stadium in Galle, Sri Lanka, situated near the Galle fort and surrounded on two sides by the Indian Ocean. It is considered to be one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world.

Tours starting from
₹14,090

Great For Couples 4.4 /5

2 km from city center

Spa & Wellness

Galle, Sri Lanka, offers a range of luxurious spas where visitors can unwind and indulge in traditional and modern wellness treatments. Treatments often include Ayurvedic massages, aromatherapy, facials, and body scrubs, using local ingredients like coconut oil, cinnamon, and herbs. Notable spas in Galle include the Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions and Galle Fort Hotel's wellness center, offering high-q (Read More)uality services to enhance both physical and mental well-being.

4.3 /5

3 km from city center

Beach

Located at Point Utrecht Bastion on the eastern end of Galle Fort, Lighthouse Beach is a prominent seaside attraction of the city. Cradling the Galle Lighthouse, the beach offers unencumbered views of the Indian Ocean. One can spend the day relaxing at the beach, engaging in water sports like swimming, scuba diving, and surfing. The beach is also famous for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets.

Tours starting from
₹2,092

4.4 /5

3 km from city center

Landmark

Amangalla is a luxury hotel within the confines of the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Ste. With a history dating back to the late 17th century, the building is currently a part of Aman Resorts, an international luxury hotel chain. The property is a blend of colonial-era charm with a tinge of modernity and a dose of Sri Lankan hospitality.

4.4 /5

3 km from city center

Shopping Ideas

Located at the junction of Church Street and Pedlar Street in the Galle Fort area, Barefoot is one of Galle’s exclusive homegrown brands. You will find a plethora of trendy products in this quaint lifestyle boutique, such as clothes, accessories, bed linens, upholstery, crockery and cutlery, jewelry, wooden fixtures, soft furniture, handmade decor items, wicker baskets, rugs, mats, and more.

4.4 /5

0 km from city center

Lake

Koggala is a beautiful picturesque place which is dotted with some beautiful islands and temples. One of the major attractions here is the Koggala Lake which is embellished with almost eight ecologically rich small islands which enhance the beauty of the whole experience.

Tours starting from
₹5,841

4.5 /5

35 km from city center

Beach

Ahungalla Beach, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is a tranquil and relatively less-crowded beach known for its long stretches of golden sand and clear blue waters. Ahungalla is also home to some luxury resorts, making it an ideal destination for a quiet getaway. The nearby Bentota River offers additional opportunities for water sports and boat rides, enhancing the beach experience.

Tours starting from
₹2,092

4.7 /5

0 km from city center

Beach

Induruwa Beach, located on Sri Lanka's southern coast near Bentota, is a serene and unspoiled beach that offers a peaceful retreat. The beach is less crowded compared to other popular tourist spots. With its proximity to nearby resorts and natural beauty, Induruwa Beach provides a laid-back coastal experience for visitors looking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s pristine coastline.

Tours starting from
₹2,092

Attractions

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Sinharaja Forest Reserve

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Midigama

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Adam's Peak

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Udawalawe National Park

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Dikwella

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FAQs on Galle

What are the top hotels in Galle?

There are 1120 Hotels in Galle which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Galle are Ambassador's House, Villa Orenka, Kalahe House, 511 JASMINE Sunrise Apartment, Etamba House, Rock Mountain. You can see all the hotels in Galle here

What are the top activities in Galle?

The top activities in Galle are Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour, Galle and Surrounding Areas Full Day Tour, Galle Private Car Charter, Whale Watching at Unawatuna Jungle Beach , Traditional Fishing Trip in Galle, Surfing Lessons in Weligama.

What are the top sightseeing places in Galle?

The top sightseeing places in Galle are Old Dutch Market , Flag Rock, Dutch Reformed Church, Amangalla, Old Gate, Galle Fort Lighthouse.

How can I commute within Galle?

Tuk tuks and travelling on foot are the two best ways to get around Galle.
Read More

Places To Visit In Galle

"Dutch Fort and Seaside Charm"

33 Things to Do In Galle

1. Galle Fort

2. Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre, Mahamodara

3. Galle Lighthouse

4. Dutch Reformed Church

Galle Travel Packages

Culture, Hill Country, Wild life & Beach Escape - Discover Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Highlights: 7-Night Cultural, Wildlife, and Beach Adventure

7 Nights 8 Days Ramayana Special with Trincomalee & Katharagama

5 Nights 6 Days Ramayana Special with Katharagama

The Twilight Escape in Sri Lanka: 8 Nights / 9 Days Tour

Legends of Ramayana - Sri Lanka

5. Old Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

6. Unawatuna Beach

Top Hotels In Galle

7. National Maritime Museum Galle

8. Japanese Peace Pagoda

9. Old Dutch Market (Galle Fruit Market)

10. Meeran Jumma Masjid

11. National Museum of Galle

12. Flag Rock Bastion

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Galle

13. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

14. Koggala Turtle Hatchery

15. Whale Watching in Mirissa

16. Thalpe Beach

17. Galle Fort Clock Tower

18. Historical Mansion Museum Galle

19. Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum

20. Jungle Beach

21. Surfing in Galle

22. Dalawella Beach

23. St. Mary's Cathedral

24. Shri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple

25. Hikkaduwa Beach

26. Galle International Cricket Stadium

27. Spas in Galle

28. Lighthouse Beach

29. Stay at Amangalla

30. Barefoot Store

31. Koggala Lake

32. Ahungalla Beach

33. Induruwa Beach

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Galle

What are the top hotels in Galle?

What are the top activities in Galle?

What are the top sightseeing places in Galle?

How can I commute within Galle?

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