Overview
Galle is a city located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, approximately 119 km (74 miles) from the capital Colombo. It is the capital and largest city of the Southern Province and is a renowned tourist destination.
History
Galle has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, when it was a major port city and trading hub for the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial powers. The historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and extensively fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort and surrounding old town district have beautifully preserved colonial architecture.
Attractions
Some of the top attractions in Galle include:
– Galle Fort – The iconic 17th century colonial fort, with its walls, bastions, and historic buildings
– Dutch Reformed Church – A stunning Dutch colonial era church within the fort
– National Maritime Museum – Showcasing Sri Lanka’s maritime heritage
– Galle Lighthouse – A 108-foot tall lighthouse dating back to 1848
– Galle Fort Railway Station – A well-preserved colonial-era train station
– Beaches – Nearby beaches like Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa are popular for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling
Getting There
Galle is easily accessible from Colombo by several modes of transportation:
– By train – Approximately 2.5 hour train ride from Colombo
– By bus – Regular bus services from Colombo take around 2-3 hours
– By car/taxi – Approximately 2 hour drive from Colombo
