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 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.
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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.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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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 AccommodationGalle Fort Hotel
The renovation of Galle Fort Hotel is a triumph. The hotel evokes a subtle sense of colonial grandeur, skilfully updated for the modern age. This 12-roomed luxurious boutique hotel is an ideal base from which to explore Sri Lanka’s southern heritage.
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View AccommodationKahanda Kanda
Kahanda Kanda is a stylish boutique retreat on a private tea estate above Koggala Lake. Offering total seclusion with easy access to Galle and the south coast, it’s an elegant, design-led escape blending nature, privacy and understated luxury.
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View AccommodationAnantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort
Perched on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is a secluded luxury escape where ocean views, lush palms and sophisticated design meet curated wellness, exceptional dining and endless coastal experiences.
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View AccommodationHaritha Villas & Spa
Revel in utter luxury at Haritha with outstanding villas and mansions all nestled in a hidden jungle paradise. Bespoke service customised to you with a resident Ayurvedic doctor along with unscripted dining and dazzling infinity pools.
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View AccommodationUga Chena Huts
Surrounded by unspoilt wilderness, Uga Chena Huts is nestled amongst dunes and trees at the ocean's edge, lying within a few minutes from the entrance to Yala National Park. It is an ideal place to observe the magnificent profusion of wildlife and nature.
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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 AccommodationAhu Bay
Sink into barefoot luxury at Ahu Bay, an intimate and relaxed beach retreat, promising a chic and rejuvenating stay on the shores of the beautiful Ahu Bay. The latest hip spot on the southern shores of Sri Lanka with laid back luxury at its core.
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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.
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 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 ExperienceCycling & Kayaking in Galle
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Galle, through a thrilling combination of cycling and kayaking.
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View ExperienceAerial Whale Watching
Enjoy the picturesque southern coastline and observe undisturbed whales in all their glory from the air on a 3-seater Cessana with an experienced pilot.
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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.
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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 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 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 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 ExperienceThe Arrack Tasting Experience
Discover the essence of Sri Lankan spirits with an exclusive arrack and food pairing experience at The Sun House in Galle. This immersive session is ideal for exploring the rich flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine in an intimate setting.
Call us on 020 8682 5060 to start planning