Things to do in Galle – Sri Lanka Southern Coast

Galle Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century fort built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch is the heart of Galle. Wander through its narrow streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and cafes.

Galle Lighthouse

Located within the fort, this picturesque lighthouse is the oldest in Sri Lanka and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Galle Clock Tower

The Galle Clock Tower is a prominent landmark within the historic Galle Fort in Galle, Sri Lanka. The Galle Clock Tower was constructed in 1883. The location of the clock tower provides excellent views of the Galle Fort, the city of Galle, and the Indian Ocean. It’s a popular spot for photography.

Galle Fort Church

All Saints’ Church is an Anglican church located within the Galle Fort in Galle, Sri Lanka, and is located on Church Road.

Old Dutch Hospital

The Galle Dutch Hospital is a historic building located within the Galle Fort area in Galle. The Galle Dutch Hospital was built during the Dutch colonial period in the 17th century, around 1681.

Galle International Cricket Stadium

Galle Cricket Stadium is a renowned cricket venue located in the historic city of Galle. The stadium is known for its picturesque location, with views of the Indian Ocean on one side and the historic Galle Fort on the other side.

National Maritime Museum

Located in a Dutch warehouse within the fort, this museum showcases the maritime history of Sri Lanka, including artifacts, models of ships, and exhibits on naval exploration and trade.

Unawatuna Beach

A popular beach a few kilometers south of Galle, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and lively atmosphere.

Jungle Beach – Unawatuna

A more secluded beach near Unawatuna, accessible through a small forest path, is perfect for a quiet escape and snorkeling. Jungle Beach is accessible via a short hike through the jungle, adding an adventurous element to the beach experience. The scenic trail offers opportunities for nature walks and wildlife sightings, providing a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s coastal ecosystems.

Rumassala Mountain

Roomassala Hill is a notable landmark located near Galle, Sri Lanka. Rumassala Mountain provides breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, the coastline, and the surrounding area. Nature enthusiasts can explore the diverse ecosystems, including medicinal plants and unique flora. According to local folklore, Roomassala is believed to be a fragment of the Himalayas carried by Hanuman, the monkey god, during his journey to Lanka in the Ramayana epic. Legend has it that Hanuman dropped a piece of the mountain while returning from Lanka, and it fell into the sea, forming Roomassala.

Japanese Peace Pagoda

This striking white stupa was built by Japanese monks as a symbol of peace. It offers a serene atmosphere and panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection.

Whale Watching at Mirissa

Head to nearby Mirissa (around 30 minutes from Galle) for an unforgettable whale-watching tour, where you can spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins.

Mirissa Beach and Coconut Tree Hill

Coconut Tree Hill, also known as Palm Tree Hill or Coconut Hill, is a picturesque viewpoint located in Mirissa. Coconut Tree Hill offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding coastline, making it a favorite spot for photographers and travelers seeking Instagram-worthy shots.

Turtle Watching in Koggala and Mahamodara

Koggala and Mahamodara areas located near Galle in Sri Lanka are known for their sea turtle conservation efforts and turtle-watching opportunities. These facilities play a crucial role in protecting sea turtles by collecting eggs from vulnerable nests, hatching them in a controlled environment, and releasing the hatchlings into the sea.

Koggala Martin Wickramasinghe House and Folk Museum

The Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum Complex is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving the life, works, and cultural heritage of Martin Wickramasinghe, one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent literary figures. Folk Museum Complex includes the author’s former residence, which has been preserved as a museum.

Koggala Beach

It lies between the towns of Unawatuna and Mirissa, making it easily accessible for travelers exploring the southern region.

Dalawella Beach

Dalawella Beach in Sri Lanka is one of the best places for water activities. It’s also famous because of the iconic rope swing, which you must try.

Koggala Lake Boat Safari and Cinnamon Experience

Koggala Lake lies between the coastal towns of Unawatuna and Mirissa. Koggala Lake’s mangrove forests play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region and it is home to diverse flora and fauna, including numerous bird species, such as kingfishers, herons, and egrets. Guided boat rides allow visitors to explore the lake’s scenic beauty, observe wildlife, and visit nearby attractions, such as Cinnamon Island and Buddhist temples.

Handungoda White Tea Factory

Handunugoda Tea Estate is located in Ahangama. This estate is renowned for producing “Virgin White Tea,” a rare and prized variety of white tea. Visitors can tour the estate, learn about tea cultivation and processing, and enjoy tea-tasting sessions. The Virgin White Tea Factory specializes in producing Virgin White Tea, a type of white tea made from handpicked tea buds. Visitors can observe the delicate process of producing this rare and exquisite tea and sample it during guided tasting sessions.

Kanneliya Rainforest

A biodiversity hotspot about an hour’s drive from Galle, perfect for hiking and nature walks. The rainforest encompasses diverse ecosystems, including dense tropical forests, freshwater streams, cascading waterfalls, and unique rock formations, offering visitors a range of natural attractions to explore.

Sinharaja Rainforest

The Sinharaja Rainforest is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant natural treasures, recognized for its rich biodiversity and ecological importance. It was designated a World Biosphere Reserve in 1978 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 due to its immense biological significance. Sinharaja forest is famous for nature trails, bird watching, waterfalls, and wildlife photography.

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa Beach is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous beach destinations, renowned for its golden sands, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent opportunities for water sports and marine life encounters. Swimming, Sunbathing, Snorkeling, Diving, Surfing, and Glass-Bottom Boat Rides are famous activities you can do while you stay in Hikkaduwa.

Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines

The Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines, located in the village of Meetiyagoda in Sri Lanka’s southern region, are renowned for their production of moonstones, a unique and iridescent gemstone. Traditional mining methods are employed at the Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines, with workers using hand tools and simple machinery to extract moonstones from the earth. Visitors can observe the mining process and learn about the techniques used by local miners.

Water Sports

Engage in water sports activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and diving. Beaches around Galle offer excellent opportunities for exploring underwater marine life and coral reefs.

Weligama Beach

Weligama Beach is a picturesque coastal destination located in the Matara District of Sri Lanka, approximately 30 kilometers east of Galle.