Galle Fort is in the city of Galle around 110 kilometres from the capital, Colombo. It is a short drive from some of Sri Lanka’s popular beachside escapes, including Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Mirissa.
There are several ways to get to Galle Fort from Colombo:
By Train: The train journey from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Galle Station is a popular and scenic option. The trip takes about 2 hours with options from the express train to the slower commuter train.
By Seaplane: If you’re looking for a more unique option, a seaplane will take you to the nearby Koggala Lake, just a short distance from Galle.
By Car: The southern expressway is a scenic route and will take you to Galle in under 2 hours.
For centuries, Galle flourished as a vital centre for trade and commerce. Its strategic position along well-established shipping routes, coupled with its naturally protected harbour, made it an ideal centre for natural trade. As early as the 1st century A.D., historical records mention Galle as a bustling hub frequented by Greek, Arabic, and Chinese traders. This strategic location placed Galle at the heart of the Maritime Silk Road, a network of trade routes that linked East and West.
The arrival of the European powers, starting with the Portuguese in the 16th century brought fierce competition for control of the Port and the lucrative spice trade. Laying siege, Galle fell in 1518, and the Portuguese constructed the first Fort on the site. However, the Dutch, with their ambitions of dominating Asian trade routes, set their sights on Galle and captured it from the Portuguese in 1640.
Recognizing the need for a powerful fortification, the Dutch completed the present Fort in 1663, a structure that stands as a testament to their strategic foresight.
Here’s our guide to some of the best experiences for couples in Galle
The interior of the Fort is an enchanting mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, boutique hotels and spas which you can explore to your heart’s content.
As a stroke of luck, the high Rampart walls also provided ample protection during the 2004 tsunami, allowing the structure to remain preserved and largely undamaged. Take your time wandering these cobbled streets, and feel transported to a European town square, a testament to the lasting influence of the colonial era.
Dutch Reform Church (1640): This beautiful and historic church has a small graveyard and beautiful church interiors well preserved and standing tall since the 17th century, whispering stories of faith and resilience.
Old Dutch Hospital (18th century): Along with Colombo’s Dutch Hospital, the Galle Fort Dutch Hospital was also transformed and renovated into a restaurant and hip shopping promenade while retaining its original architectural features.
Amangalla (1684): Once the residence of the Dutch Governor, this building now boasts the popular luxury hotel brand’s one of two luxury hotels on the island.
All Saints Anglican Church (Late 1800s): Built from solid rock, this church exudes a sense of strength and serenity.
Meeran Mosque (1904): A centre for Galle’s Muslim community to gather, this mosque showcases intricate architecture.
Sudharmalaya Temple: This pristine white Buddhist temple is a sacred space inside the Fort.
This guide to the best sites to explore while roaming the Fort unveils a part of its Soul.
A short distance away, the city’s magic continues to bestow spellbinding gifts with stunning beaches just beyond the Fort walls.
The horseshoe-shaped main beach at Unawatuna is one of the most famous beaches for couples. Perfect for swimming in clear calm waters, the southern end and middle stretch of the beach is more secluded than the main beach area if you prefer some private moments.
Much less busy than Unawatuna’s main beach, this section of Unawatuna is a beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. While the beach area is smaller the experience is more private and secluded.
Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity unfolds on both land and sea.
Galle along with Mirissa offers couples a unique opportunity to witness the ocean’s majestic marine life in their natural habitat. A prime location for watching migrant whales and captivating dolphins, Galle Harbour has options to take whale-watching tours.
The best season for this excursion is between December and March, when the waters are calmer, and the ocean becomes a highway for these marine giants. Alongside dolphins many species of whales such as Bryde’s whales, Sperm whales and the most majestic of them all, the Blue whale.
Duration: Leaving at dawn the tour lasts between 4-6 hours.
Includes: Breakfast, tea and snacks.
You have probably already seen the popular Sri Lankan rope swing going viral on Instagram. This experience is a short drive from Galle and is often never missed by couples visiting Galle.
The original swing at Dalawella Beach is simply a bit of pure beach fun and of course an amazing Insta-worthy photograph.
Dalawella Beach (Dream Cabanas): This is the original viral swing, and it currently costs LKR 500 for around 5 swings.
Mihiripenna Beach: A short walk away, this swing is above a natural lagoon. It’s slightly cheaper (LKR 300) and perfect for a sunrise swing experience.
Featuring a curated guide of the best 12 couple experiences to explore in Galle, the Fort and its surroundings, the beach city is sure to enchant as a romantic rendezvous.