Places To Visit
Yara Galle Fort is near all attractions in Galle Fort
ENCHANTING GALLE
Located in the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka lies the ultimate mix of culture, tradition and tourism. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle is a treasure within a treasure.
Find yourself being lured into its sought after beaches, historic sights, wildlife nature reserves & religious sanctuaries from the moment you enter it’s vicinity.
CITY OF GALLE FORT
For over 2 centuries, Galle remained as the main port of the country – a central stop for ships and boats that were traveling between Europe and Asia, the influences of which can be felt in Galle even today. However, after the British took over, Galle lost its central importance as Colombo slowly became the commercial hub Visit the Old Gate which is crowned with a beautifully carved British coat of arms, or stop by the unique lace shop at the Shoba Display Gallery and watch as they make magic via beautiful lacework.
SDG is a hub where local women come to learn the trade and thereby be a part of the workforce- so do pop in for support. Take back unique souvenirs in the form of stylish reproduction posters from Stick No Bills. You can buy gorgeous posters or postcards that showoff Sri Lanka’s scenic & rich history- Ideal for gifts or keepsakes Fascinating sights aside, Galle offers a surplus of cafes and restaurants scattered at every turn and corner- inviting you to taste an amazing array of mouth-watering dishes. Places such as the Fort Printers, Spoon’s Café, Pedlar’s inn and the Royal Dutch Café offer not only tasty meals but a great ambiance as well.
As evening sets, prepare to be dazzled with hues of pinks and purples as Flag rock gives you a spectacular show of the sunset on the horizon. Sightseeing in Galle will leave you richer with experience and packed with lasting memories, as the bustling coastal city takes you on a journey through time.
MUST VISIT PLACE IN GALLE FORT
Galle Fort is a magical place- rich in history and character. It was once a busy trading port with ships and boats hailing from far off lands such as China, Greece and Arabia.
It is for this reason that the Fort is not only part of Sri Lanka’s history but is shared in other celebrated writings, such as those of the famed 14th century traveller Ibn Battuta and the Egyptian wanderer from the 6th century- Cosmas Indicopleustes. Amidst the old colonial structures thrives a modern world that stays true to its rich past.
The Shady cobblestone walkways knit together various parts of the fort. Enjoy a movie-like stroll to and from cafes, shops, restaurants & boutiques.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF GALLE
Located in the oldest Dutch building within the Galle Fort, is a millennium old National Museum, rich with Sri Lanka’s southern traditional cultural heritage.
The museum has on display an interesting range of archaeological and anthropological artifacts that carry deep narratives. Browse through the V.O.C porcelain objects, weapons and arms used by ancient Dutch soldiers, local ritual masks, ancient wood carvings and beautiful beeralu or lace collection for which the area is famous.
GALLE FORT LIGHTHOUSE
The original solid white structure dates back to 1848 and was constructed to guide ships safely to the harbour. Also known as the Pointe de Galle Light- the original structure was about 80 feet tall and its light was made through prism lens of glass- powered by a weight driven machine.
When the old lighthouse was destroyed in 1934, the new (and current one) was built about 100 feet from the old. It was built in a strategic position within the ramparts so as to provide incoming ships with uninterrupted light.
