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Galle

Galle Fort, or Dutch Fort as it is also known, is a fortification first built by the Portuguese on the Southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. The original fortifications, which were built in the late 16th century, were quite basic. The Dutch made extensive modifications to the Fort in the 17th century, making it one of the most important archaeological, architectural, and historical monuments to illustrate the European influence in Southeast Asia between the 16th and 19th centuries. According to a statement by UNESCO, the Fort was recognized as a World Heritage Site for its unique exposition of an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Galle, Sri Lanka, is one of the country’s main tourist attractions. Not only for the beautiful beaches in this area, but Galle is also famous because of the colonial architecture on the Island. The Galle Dutch Fort is one of the favourite places that visitors should not miss. You can see the most beautiful architectural details there. Also, viewing the sunset from the Galle Fort is the perfect way to end the day in Galle. The National Museum of Galle is another exciting place to visit. Many tourists and locals come to visit the site to see all the historic details and artefacts of ancient Sri Lanka.

If you love architecture, The Dutch Reformed Church or Groote Kerk in Galle is also one place with immense architectural and colonial value. Also, another addition to the local museums is the historical mansion museum of Galle. It is worth adding this to your list because of the artefacts that hold immense cultural and historical value. The Galle Clock Tower (from where you can see the International Cricket Stadium), The Galle Lighthouse, The All Saints’ Church and the St Joseph’s Chapel are other monuments with unique architectural value. The ideal time to visit the beaches around Galle is during the dry season of the Island. Then you will be able to get the maximum benefit from the trip and enjoy the beauty of the sandy beaches under the sun and have the most wonderful holiday! However The Galle Fort is welcoming and interesting all year round.

Both in and outside of the For are beautiful accommodations, from friendly guest houses, colonial villas, to luxury 5-star accommodations and romantic hotels. Delicious culinary delights from many cultures can be found at the restaurants in Galle Fort.

Japanese Peace Pagoda

Japanese Peace Pagoda

Do not miss the Japanese Peace Pagoda in Unawatuna, located on the Rumassala Kanda hilltop, which provides a spectacular view of the beautiful ocean and Galle Fort. In the colonial period, Rumassala was known as Buenos Vistas (Good View). The calm waters of Galle Bay provided safe anchorage for many foreign vessels sailing on the Silk Route in the Indian Ocean, transporting enormous quantities of spices, fabrics, crockery, and precious stones. It is said that during this period, sailors of the ships used the Southern end of Rumassala Kanda (known as Watering Point) to take fresh water before continuing their long journeys. The Unawatuna beach is close by. So, make sure to visit and enjoy the beauty of the sandy Unawatuna beach.

Heritage & Culture

The island of Sri Lanka has one of the most diversified cultural populations in the world. Sri Lankan culture comprises several practices and rituals that stretch back more than 2000 years and have been passed down through generations.