Galle Fort in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, was built first in 1588 by the Portuguese, and then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards. It is a historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument, which even after more than 432 years maintains a polished appearance, due to extensive reconstruction work done by Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.

The Galle Fort, also known as the Dutch Fort or the "Ramparts of Galle", withstood the Boxing Day tsunami which damaged part of coastal area Galle town. It has been since restored.

Importance of Galle Fort

The Dutch Fort is the most important tourist attraction in Galle Sri Lanka. The cobblestones pathways are lined with whitewashed Dutch styles shops, houses, museums, galleries, and boutique hotels. A few places on earth can match the beautiful settings of this colonial walled city. But this UNESCO world heritage site is about much more than colonial charm and Dutch architecture.

Galle Fort History

The story of the Galle Dutch Fort; a UNESCO World Heritage Site reverberates through every traveller’s photos and captions. Initially built by the Portuguese in the 16th century during their conquests, the fort was later fortified and conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century, until it later fell to the might of the British. The old town of Galle was once used as a trading port for spices and other goods for over 200 years. However, today, the fort has been transformed into a place of history, romance and beauty where travellers are warmly welcomed to dive head first into the exotic stories and be a part of this heritage site.

How to Reach?                                             

From Colombo to Galle Fort 147km Far away. You can choose easy way to reach Galle Fort.

What You Can Do Here?

If you visit in Galle, there are lots of things to do & watch here. If you travelling Galle, you must visit Galle fort, further you can visit Galle light house, swim, swing at dalawella & many more.  

Here is a long list of major things to do in Galle, which the first time travelers can visit and experience.

Visit Galle lighthouse

The Galle Lighthouse is an onshore Lighthouse in Galle, Sri Lanka and is operated and maintained by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. This is Sri Lanka's oldest light station.

Watch Sunset from Galle Fort Wall

Each afternoon at around 5:30 pm, locals and tourists alike gather along the fort walls to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean. It’s a festive and happy affair; cricket games are played on the grass below, whole families gather to see off the last of the day, and travellers mingle and chat while Mother Nature streaks the sky all kinds of shades of blue, orange, pink and purple.the best point to watch the sunset from is the Triton Bastion, however, you can watch the sunset from pretty much any point on the western side of the Fort walls.

Watch a Cricket Match at Galle Fort Cricket Ground

Sri Lanka’s national sport is cricket, and here in the south of the country, it’s very much a religion. Everywhere you look, you’ll see a game of cricket being played, Galle Fort happens to be home to one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world, the Galle International Cricket Ground.

Located right at the entrance to the Fort proper, and the ground features international games throughout the year including test match, one-day matches and 20/20 games. You can watch from the grassy terrace, all the while being served fresh tropical fruits and enjoying a beer or two. It’s basically the perfect day out for any sport lover.

Take photos

You can take lots of photos. There are beautiful surroundings. You can take variety poses pictures.

Galle Fort Map

If you think to visit Galle fort, you can refer  Galle fort map for find easy ways, hotels, hospitals & many more.

Where can you Accommodation in Galle?

Galle Fort Hotels

Galle has lots of number hotels, resorts & restaurant with modern amenities in reasonable price. There is eye pleasing view, so you can spend time freely & relax.