The Galle Fort is a popular honeymoon area in the South of Sri Lanka. This charming cobblestoned colonial gem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an enchanting escape for couples. Blending a captivating history, colonial charm, chic cafes, historic churches, and beaches encapsulated with its warm tropical flair the Fort is the perfect escape for couples seeking an immersive experience at Galle Fort, the best in Asia.
Galle fell to the Portuguese along with the island’s coastal belt in the 16th century. Soon understanding its strategic importance, the Portuguese built the first Fort here. However, it was the Dutch, who took over the Fort in the 17th century and transformed it into the impressive fortification that still stands today.
Even before it was captured by the Portuguese in the 16th century Galle was a stop for ancient mariners going west also referenced by Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan explorer.
The legacy of these eras lives on in the impressive fortifications, cobbled streets and unique architectural tapestry.
The Galle Fort is one of Asia’s best Forts. Its builders, the Dutch colonial masters of the 17th century, with their ambitions of dominating the Asian trade routes, recognised the need for a powerful fortification and set about expanding after which the Portuguese built the Fort into the current structure, completing it in 1663. Largely untouched since then, the Fort stands as a timeless piece of colonial history and is called one of Asia’s best colonial Forts.
While Galle is a historic gem, it is also equally popular as a romantic city. With spellbinding rampart sunsets, charming museums, historic cultural buildings, beautiful beaches, boutique hotels and a hip and sophisticated food scene, Galle Fort has much to explore both inside and out.
Whether you seek adventure, romance, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Galle Fort has it all and so much more.
Standing tall amidst the surrounding palm trees, the iconic Galle Lighthouse is a picture-postcard landmark, originally built in 1848. Though the current structure dates to 1939 it nevertheless attracts crowds as an iconic landmark that has unfailingly guided ships into Galle Harbour for more than a century. Gaining prominence as a fun Galle exploration as well as for cool photo opportunities, the lighthouse has become a symbol of the city itself.
Location: Corner of Hospital and Rampart St
Take a walk along the very walls that have witnessed the ebbs and flows of centuries of history. The coral-mixed ramparts of the Fort are also a popular sunset-watching cuddle spot. Start your journey on the ‘Fort Walk’, at the historic Clock Tower. Pass through the Main Gate passing the Dutch Reformed Church.
On the western side of the Fort, you’ll encounter the beautifully restored Dutch Hospital, which is now home to restaurants and cafes for a quick bite and a cup of coffee. Head south on the ramparts towards the iconic lighthouse, and encounter the Meeran Mosque, the Flag Rock Bastion, and the intriguing Triton Bastion. Your rampart wark concludes at Star Bastion where unfolding before you are magnificent panoramic views of the coastal line stretching for miles.
Tip: This roughly 2-kilometre walk is best enjoyed in the cooler morning or late afternoon when the tropical heat is more tolerable.
Galle Fort is a haven for those who love to indulge in some retail therapy. With boutiques, art galleries, and shops selling spices, gems, and handcrafted curios Pedlar Street is the main shopping drag. If you have an eye for a bargain this is the place to find it. Join the throngs of happy shoppers as you browse through an array of boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops.
Stick No Bills: This store boasts an incredible collection of retro prints with a distinct ‘Ceylon’ theme.
MimiMango: Strictly for women, MimiMango offers stylish women’s clothing and Sri Lankan accessories.
Koccoriko Paola’s Shop: For the discerning traveller, the store offers quality textiles and handcrafted souvenirs.
Exotic Roots: A charming store run by a mother and daughter that has a host of unique handicrafts and artwork created by the owners themselves.
Made in Ceylon: A colourful store with whimsical souvenirs of Sri Lanka.
1. Galle Lighthouse
2. Walk the Ramparts
3. Watch the sunset from the Rampart Walls
4. Maritime Museum
5. Meeran Mosque
6. Pedlar Street for Shopping
7. Dutch Reformed Church (1640)
8. All Saints Anglican Church
9. Meeran Mosque
10. Sudharmalaya Temple
11. Church Street Social Cafe at Fort Bazaar Hotel
12. Dutch Hospital Shopping and Restaurant Promenade