Making the most of Galle
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Galle is a tender port, with the landing point within walking distance of town.
Take a printable map along.
The old Muslim harbour of Galle, reputed to be biblical Tarshish, has been occupied in turn by Portuguese, Dutch and British forces since the 16th century. Its faded colonial buildings clearly reveal those European influences.
Imposing Fort walls enclose the Dutch-style Old Town, now designated as a World Heritage site. Dutch Museum period rooms portray colonial life, while Martin Wickramsinghe Folk Art Museum contains a notable collection of masks and carriages. Sri Lanka has held strategic importance for international traders since the 18th century, culminating in a focus on tea during the 19th and 20th centuries, making Talgaswella Tea Estate worth visiting.
Beautiful Kalutara Temple is one of Galle's best-known structures, easily recognised by its white domed roof and pointed top.
Getting around
Discover Galle on foot or by tuk-tuk, with opportunities to see its impressive temples.
Avoid unauthorised local or overseas guides offering paid walks around the Fort. Walking the Fort is free, and local authorities do not impose a charge.
Take a boat across the lagoon and Koggala Lake to view small islands popular for birdwatching. For larger animals, visit one of Sri Lanka's many wildlife reserves, natural parks or sanctuaries, all highly popular with visitors.
Sri Lanka's most common transport is the three-wheeled vehicle appropriately called a three-wheeler or Tri-Shaw. The sound of its engine also gives it the name Tuk-Tuk. These vehicles function like taxis and offer a highly economical way to travel.
Nearby places
The impressive Unawatuna beaches are nearby, approximately 5 km away.
A brief taxi trip from Galle reaches Sea Turtle Farm and Hatchery in Habaraduwa. Staff collect vulnerable eggs laid along the coast and rear the hatchlings until they are large enough for release, allowing the cycle to begin again.
Food and shopping
The Fort contains Galle's best tourist shopping.
Money
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee. Approximate exchange rates are 110Rs/ USD and 170Rs/ EUR.
ATMs are widespread in cities and suburbs, especially at bank branches, but less common in rural areas.
Staying connected
Sinhala, Tamil and English are widely used throughout Sri Lanka, except in remote villages where only Sinhala or Tamil may be spoken.
Opening Hours and
Usual shopping hours are Mon-Fri 0900-1730 and Sat 0900-1300.