7 must-see places in and around Galle Fort in Sri Lanka that showcase history and culture

Galle Fort, a Unesco World Heritage site on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is a beautiful and well preserved gateway to the country’s colonial past and cultural richness. Built by the Portuguese in 1588, it was fortified extensively by the Dutch in the 17th century and later influenced by the British. Its blend of diverse European and South Asian architectural styles is one of Galle Fort’s most captivating features. The fort’s thick walls, built of coral and granite, have withstood centuries of tropical weather and historical tumult. Once a hub of maritime trade, Galle Fort played a key role in connecting Sri Lanka with the world. Today it is a vibrant community where colonial-era buildings stand alongside bustling cafes, boutiques and art galleries. An example of this mix is Fort Bazaar, a meticulously restored former spice merchant’s home that has been turned into an 18-room boutique hotel and spa and which blends historical charm with modern luxury. Walking along the cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a time capsule – Galle Fort is older than two other former British colonies in Asia, Hong Kong and Singapore. Here are seven places in and around the fort where you can immerse yourself in the area’s timeless charms. 1. The Dutch Reformed Church The Dutch Reformed Church, or Groote Kerk, is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka. Built in 1755, the church’s interior contains gravestones that go back centuries, beautifully carved wooden pews, and an old organ. The building is representative of Dutch colonial architecture, with its whitewashed walls and striking gables. History buffs will appreciate the intricate details that tell stories of colonial Galle, including the Dutch family graves in the courtyard. 2. Turtle sanctuaries Just a short drive or auto rickshaw ride from Galle Fort, Sri Lanka’s southern coast has several sanctuaries dedicated to protecting endangered turtles. Places like Kosgoda and Hikkaduwa offer encounters with rescued hatchlings and injured adults, which are rehabilitated for release. Visitors can learn about conservation, witness baby turtles taking their first swim or participate in nighttime releases during nesting season, which usually runs from November to April. Ethical sanctuaries prioritise education over exploitation, ensuring minimal human interference. 3. Church Street Social Whether you are in the mood for local cuisine or a hearty burger, Church Street Social will have something for you. Egg hoppers – a Sri Lankan bowl-shaped thin pancake – are popular for breakfast, while the local dry beef curry, Bazaar Signature Yellowfin Tuna pizza and the club sandwich are also high on the list of favourites. The cocktails are also excellent. Sit back and people-watch on the terrace with a refreshing Tamarind and Melon, a mixture of tequila, watermelon, tamarind, lime juice and elderflower syrup. 4. Explore the Maritime Archaeology Museum Housed in a restored Dutch warehouse, the Maritime Archaeology Museum delves into Galle’s rich maritime history. Perfect for history buffs and families alike, the interactive displays feature fascinating shipwreck artefacts, maps and models of historic vessels. The exhibits chronicle Galle’s role as a trading hub for spices, gems and other goods that connected East and West. You will also learn about the underwater archaeological sites in the area, including shipwrecks that have been preserved beneath the ocean’s surface for centuries. 5. Yatagala Temple Just 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) from Galle Fort, the Yatagala RajaMaha Viharaya temple is a peaceful retreat that offers glimpses of Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage. Nestled amid towering rock formations and lush foliage, this 2,300-year-old Buddhist monastery is said to have been visited by missionaries during Emperor Ashoka’s reign from 268BC to 232BC. A cave temple houses striking reclining Buddha statues and vibrant murals, while a sacred bo tree adds to the site’s tranquil aura. Climb the rocky outcrop for panoramic views of the countryside, a perfect contrast to Galle’s coastal bustle. 6. Unawatuna Beach If you are visiting from November to April, Unawatuna Beach, not far from Galle Fort, offers some of Sri Lanka’s most accessible and thrilling diving experiences. With Pearl Divers, a reputable Padi-certified dive centre, even beginners can explore vibrant coral gardens, rocky outcrops, and the famed Ralagala Wreck, which teems with parrotfish and moray eels. The warm, clear waters make it ideal for spotting turtles, reef sharks and kaleidoscopic marine life. 7. Handunugoda Tea Estate A short drive from Galle, the Handunugoda Tea Estate offers a fascinating detour into Ceylon’s tea heritage, with a twist: this boutique plantation is famed for producing virgin white tea, a delicate, hand-plucked variety once reserved for Chinese emperors. Learn the meticulous art of tea processing, and find out why workers use golden scissors to harvest only the finest buds. The tea is one of the most expensive, going under the hammer for up to US$1,500 per kilogram at auctions.

7 must-see places in and around Galle Fort in Sri Lanka that showcase history and culture

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Turtles, a temple, tuna pizza, tea so fine it was once reserved for Chinese emperors, Galle Fort and its surroundings has all these and more

Turtles, a temple, tuna pizza, tea so fine it was once reserved for Chinese emperors, Galle Fort and its surroundings has all these and more