Explore Galle Fort
While staying in the Galle Fort take the time to discover this fascinating colonial town, filled with history. Founded in 1588 by the Portuguese, the fort was subsequently occupied by the Dutch and the British, so there is plenty to explore.
Area
South Coast
Type
Art & Architecture
History
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
Half Day
Galle Fort, in the bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is a historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument, which even after more than 423 years maintains a polished appearance, due to extensive reconstruction work done by Archaelogical Department of Sri Lanka. The fort has a colourful history and today has a multi-ethnic and multi-religious population. The fort has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
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View TourJust us: Sri Lanka
If your dream honeymoon combines idyllic beaches, breathtaking adventures, and a touch of culture, Sri Lanka offers the perfect mix. From spotting leopards on safari and sipping fresh tea in the rolling hills to indulging in oceanfront luxury, this itinerary promises unforgettable memories for two.
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View TourIconic Sri Lanka
Showcasing our most popular properties and a route that remains a firm favourite with our guests, this journey captures the very best of Sri Lanka in effortless style. From serene colonial gardens to the untouched wilderness of Wilpattu, you’ll experience immersive culture, meaningful encounters and refined luxury throughout. Explore ancient kingdoms by bike and on foot, journey through emerald tea hills, and unwind on the southern coast—this is Sri Lanka’s classic highlights.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationCape Weligama
Perched on a dramatic cliff, Cape Weligama looks out over the endless Indian Ocean, where terracotta roofs peek through palms, infinity pools mirror the sky, and the rhythm of waves shapes days of quiet luxury and unforgettable moments.
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View AccommodationThe Villa Bentota
Villa Bentota is a beautifully restored Geoffrey Bawa-designed villa on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Blending heritage architecture with contemporary refinement, it offers a relaxed yet stylish beachfront escape just moments from the Indian Ocean.
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View AccommodationThe Fort Bazaar
A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Galle Fort, Fort Bazaar combines heritage with contemporary design. Explore the fort on foot before unwinding by the hotel's outdoor swimming pool, a peaceful oasis within the historic walls.
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View AccommodationLeopard Trails - Yala National Park
Leopard Trails offers an immersive safari experience on the edge of Yala National Park, where you can spot leopards, elephants and crocodiles while staying in stylish tents and suites designed for comfort in the wilderness.
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View AccommodationWhy House
Why House is a chic boutique hotel near to the beaches of Talpe and close to the historic Galle Fort. With a pool, tropical gardens and welcoming personal touches, this 10-room Sri Lankan hideaway sits somewhere between a villa and a boutique hotel.
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View AccommodationAmanwella
Overlooking pristine beaches and the Indian Ocean, situated on the southern tip of Sri Lanka, Amanwella is an all suite chic retreat on the breathtaking Sri Lankan coast. With its laid back atmosphere, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
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View AccommodationKumu Beach
Kumu Beach is a chic, modern boutique hotel close to Balapitiya Beach on Sri Lanka's south west coast. A short distance from Galle and close to Bentota and Hikkaduwa, there are just ten rooms and suites here, making for a relaxing and stylish stay.
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View AccommodationTekanda Lodge
Tekanda Lodge, set on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, offers a luxurious, intimate retreat with stunning views of jungle and rice paddies. Blending modern design and local charm, it features elegant suites, an infinity pool and farm-to-table dining
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View AccommodationMalabar Hill
A stylish destination resort for responsible and luxurious travel, Malabar Hill is a glorious hideaway perched on a hillside overlooking Weligama Bay. Sophisticated, serene, and secluded, it’s the ideal retreat for an indulgent and relaxing break.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceGalle Cooking Experience - Food for the Soul
During your time in Sri Lanka you are sure to dine on some soul-stirring dishes, including the traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry. Food lovers will love this cooking experience, from the vibrant market of Galle to cooking in a local village.
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View ExperienceReflections with a monk
Get up close and personal with Buddhism in Sri Lanka through a one-on one conversation with a local monk. Conversations on relevant topics, as guided by you, will explore this cornerstone of Sri Lankan culture and your specific interests in philosophy.
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View ExperienceGalle: Local Cricket Experience
It’s hard to ignore the passion for cricket as you travel around Sri Lanka – in every village, side street and city there are locals with bat and ball in hand. We invite you to take part in a friendly cricket match in Galle Fort, joining a team of locals.
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View ExperienceExplore the Kapu Ela River by boat & Cycle through Rural Galle
Enjoy a scenic and immersive tour through the beautiful countryside surrounding Galle. Your journey will take you down the Kapu Ela River by boat and then by bike across the paddies, ending with a traditional Sri Lankan meal and a lesson in hopper making.
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View ExperienceCycling & Kayaking in Galle
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Galle, through a thrilling combination of cycling and kayaking.
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View ExperienceGalle Fort Treasure Hunt
Traverse the timeless streets of the Galle Fort on a Treasure hunting adventure and explore Sri Lanka's best preserved colonial fort in a unique and interactive way.
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View ExperienceWhale and Dolphin Watching by Private Catamaran
On this full day boat trip you will have the opportunity to spot vast amounts of marine life from blue whales, false ores, sperm whales and bottlenose dolphins.
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View ExperienceGalle Fort Tour with a Local Host
Galle’s main attraction is the 17th century Dutch Fort. Much of the old Fort and the township still remain, within its well-preserved bastions including its public buildings, churches, the famous lighthouse and a maze of narrow cobbled streets.
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View ExperienceVisit a Cinnamon Plantation
Led by a local couple, enjoy a serene boat ride to the plantation on Cinnamon Island. During this unforgettable experience, you will experience the aromatic world of cinnamon craftsmanship and local traditions.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning