Galle Dutch Fort
Galle Dutch Fort
4.5
About
Galle is located in the south of Sri Lanka. A journey to the past sees the remnants of a Dutch past at a World Heritage Site. Galle has been the emporium of foreign trade since the dawn of commerce. The Dutch Fort, which has been declared a World Heritage Site, surrounds the older part of the town and is situated on a headland of which three sides overlook the sea. The ramparts of the Fort are over 2.5 km in circumference and provide a pleasant and interesting walk. The historian Sir Emerson Tennant claimed that Galle was the ancient biblical city of Tarshish. This city is said to have traded with King Solomon, the Persians and the Egyptians. In 1505 a Portuguese fleet led by Lorenzo de Almeida heading for the Maldives drifted accidentally into Galle. On hearing a cock crowing (cock means ”Galo” in Portuguese), it is said that they gave the town its name. Another explanation for the name is from the Sinhala name for rock ‘Gala’, plenty of which are found in the harbour area.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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- Lonely Laowai174 contributionsDay trip, not half dayPlace is worth a solid day, easily. Start by walking the premier, where you’ll see most of the major attractions. Then loop back into the middle where there are more shops, and gorgeous scenery during sunset. This is NOT a half day drip, and anyone who tells you otherwise had better be recommending bikes.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 20, 2024
- Peter DaniliucAdelaide, Australia9 contributionsForget the expenseive day tours, Tuk Tuks are much better and far cheaper !Galle is a wonderful place to spend 3-4 days. The Fort is well worth several short visits, especially late afternoon and sunset, rather than trying to cram everything into a single sweltering day. The Tuk Tuks in Galle are excellent - honest, very friendly and knowledgeable. Don't spend USD 100+ for day trips booked online, when you can do far better in your personal Tuk Tuk at less than a third of the cost. Our Tuk Tuk driver, Nalin (Whats App +94 77 835 9763) was amazing and one of the best we had in Sri Lanka. He took us to the local fish and vegetable markets, then an afternoon trip to Marissa beach with stops along the way. Nalin even helped us buy spices, at local prices, not the inflated tourist prices. We had lots of time to enjoy sunset cocktails, then a seafood dinner at one of the beach restaurants, before heading back to our hotel. This was definitely one of our best experiences in Sri Lanka.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 23, 2024
- travellerSheffield, United Kingdom710 contributionsBeautiful old fortA lovely area to walk around and the rampart walls provide wonderful views across both the Fort and the Indian Ocean. It comes alive at night with lots of eating places. If interested in cricket fabulous views across the ground from the British entrance to the fort. Well worth visitingVisited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 2, 2024
- Nik_singHong Kong, China73 contributionsCharming Slice of HistoryGalle Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka. Steeped in history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating glimpse into the country's colonial past. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved Dutch architecture, and explore the quaint boutiques and cafes tucked away in the fort's nooks and crannies. Don't miss the stunning views from the ramparts, especially during sunset. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a picturesque backdrop for your vacation photos, Galle Fort won't disappointVisited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten March 5, 2024
- Fata SMurmansk, Russia4,905 contributionsA fortress with historyA city with a long history. First, the Portuguese came in the 16th century and built a fortress, followed by the Dutch, and in the 18th century the British, each of whom contributed something to the fortress and architecture of the city. Listed by UNESCO. There is something to see.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 6, 2024
- Zhenmei Lanka ToursNegombo, Sri Lanka22 contributionsZhenmei Lanka Tours is Sri Lanka's leading internal tour operator. We specialize in customized individual and group travZhenmei Lanka Tours is Sri Lanka's leading internal tour operator. We specialize in customized individual and group travel packages, Zhenmei Lanka Tours provides experienced guides and travel in air-conditioned comfortable vehicles. (We have a dedicated customer service, to maintain customer support when needed)Visited March 2024Traveled on businessWritten March 6, 2024
- JR_EssexChelmsford, United Kingdom585 contributionsUnique part of Sri LankaA trip to the southern coast of Sri Lanka is not complete without a visit to Galle Fort. A lovely area full of old Dutch style buildings and churches, as well as a number of small mosques. We visited on a Poya Day so the fort was quite busy, but still a pleasure to wander the streets and walk around the sea walls. There are plenty of small cafes and restaurants if you are in need of refreshments. As is the case throughout Sri Lanka the people are lovely and happy to help if you need directions. The stmosphere of Galle Fort is very different to the rest of Sri Lanka and well worth visit.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 7, 2024
- Akshay SharmaNew Delhi, India10,926 contributionsA must see place while in GalleWhile on a tour of Sri Lanka with a grop of friends we visited this place. It has nice dutch fort where even today the services are running. It is nicely maintained and one can see the glimpses of history here.Visited March 2024Traveled with friendsWritten March 17, 2024
- HarbourTwoDoha, Qatar229 contributionsFantastic day out…something for everyone.Something for everyone…the shopper, the historian, the foodie, the art lover, the jewellery lover the fashionista and more. Beyond the lighthouse, there are stunning ocean vistas, interesting history and artifacts such as cannons on the ramparts, gunpowder magazine storage, cafes, restaurants, handicrafts, art, jewellery studios, and gelaterias. Shop merchants are friendly and welcoming and not pushy. So many interesting and diverse offerings for sale.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 10, 2024
- Ginevra NSDSAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates33 contributionsA real gem in Galle fortFantastic from all the point of view. Ambiance, location, bedrooms, food… The building is a colonial one, with traditional colonial furnitures, the decoration of the spaces is perfect, the swimming pool is a plus. The restaurant is a top level one! Beautiful place!Visited April 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 15, 2024
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South Shields, UK1,922 contributions
Jun 2024 • Friends
We took the local bus (a special moment itself, with music and disco lights) from our hotel in Koggala Beach. The bus dropped us near the cricket ground, we passed all the tuk tuk drivers offering tours of the walled city.
Galle fort is a fascinating world heritage site full of one of a guide shops, restaurants and bars.
The whole place was very quiet with very few fellow tourists walking about. Unfortunately we didn't catch any of the cliff divers and the lighthouse was closed when we visited. We returned to our hotel in Koggala via tuk tuk which for the twenty five minute trip only cost us £8.
We enjoyed our time here so much so that we returned on our last morning in Sri Lanka.
Galle fort is a fascinating world heritage site full of one of a guide shops, restaurants and bars.
The whole place was very quiet with very few fellow tourists walking about. Unfortunately we didn't catch any of the cliff divers and the lighthouse was closed when we visited. We returned to our hotel in Koggala via tuk tuk which for the twenty five minute trip only cost us £8.
We enjoyed our time here so much so that we returned on our last morning in Sri Lanka.
Written July 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anuradha
New Delhi, India1,410 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
Enjoyed every bit of this historic fort. Had planned half day, so reached there by 1:30 pm and it was scorching hot. Wanted to cover it walking but hired Tuk Tuk due to heat. The Tuk Tuk driver showed all the prominent points. After getting oriented we saw the fort at our own pace, like exploring the national museum, which was just a small one. Maritime Archeology Museum was very good but needs better maintenance, nowhere fans were working and it was not well lit.
The ambience of the Galle fort was amazing with a lot of tourist everywhere specially around evening time. The by lanes offered magical ambience with old world charm. The Fort has a lot to offer- historical buildings like Light house, museums, churches, mosque, Buddhist temple, medieval Dutch houses converted to hotels/ restaurants/ government offices. A lot of eateries and chic stores and boutiques looked amazing. Sunset looked beautiful from the fort wall.
The ambience of the Galle fort was amazing with a lot of tourist everywhere specially around evening time. The by lanes offered magical ambience with old world charm. The Fort has a lot to offer- historical buildings like Light house, museums, churches, mosque, Buddhist temple, medieval Dutch houses converted to hotels/ restaurants/ government offices. A lot of eateries and chic stores and boutiques looked amazing. Sunset looked beautiful from the fort wall.
Written January 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
phileve R
Aix-en-Provence, France500 contributions
Dec 2024 • Friends
Very nice walled city, pity for us during our visit it rained hard enough, we could not do everything we had planned. But by braving the squalls and rains we were able to wander in this rather touristy city anyway... but worth a detour, the fortifications are large, the views of the sea are beautiful. We even visited a Christian church there, quite rare in Sri Lanka
Automatically translated
Written January 28, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HR
New Delhi, India399 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
A visit to the Galle fort is an absolute must do. The Dutch construction, the fort walls facing the waves is a sight that shouldn't be missed.
The fort is sea bound on one side, making it a spectacular view, especially during sunset.
Also, it is a unique fort where the part of the town (civilianw) lives within the fort. This makes it a home to numerous cafes and shops.
The fort is sea bound on one side, making it a spectacular view, especially during sunset.
Also, it is a unique fort where the part of the town (civilianw) lives within the fort. This makes it a home to numerous cafes and shops.
Written October 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paperika
Paderborn, Germany10 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
The fort is beautiful! The view is a dream - the garbage is a nightmare! There are no garbage cans anywhere and the locals themselves just leave their garbage lying around! Terrible. Right at the entrance you are inundated with tuk-tuk drivers who want to offer you THE RIDE. Don't do it, they just want to take your money! The fort is ideal for strolling and enjoying. The men(!) also become very pushy very quickly if you are standing alone and waiting, after several "No, thank you!" they may let up. Conclusion: Galle Fort is beautiful and definitely worth a visit - the garbage and some of the men there are just awful!

Written August 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brian P
Tweed Heads, Australia70 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
Great place to relax and enjoy the 450 old fortress. Only downside is not the best place to get a Sri Lankan curry inside the fort . The majority of restaurants serve up the same Western dishes, No Thai Restaurant,Vietnamese or a decent Chinese restaurant. A couple small Chinese restaurants but nothing really fancy or nice. 120 plus restaurants in the fort most of them serve hamburgers, fish and chips or other western food.
Written July 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Handysmith
Ryde, Australia324 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
This was a fantastic long half day. This was our program:
We started at the front gate and did the ‘Fort Walk’ which is about 2kms roughly around the perimeter. We started late so was a bit hot and probably best done early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are more manageable.
1. Enter Main Gate
2. Historic Clock Tower - head south into the interior of the Fort
3. Museum - small fee to enter, interesting, only small.
4. Dutch Reform Church – can enter, FREE
5. We skipped the Maritime Museum
6. Old Main Gate,
7. Restored Dutch Hospital (up market shops, cafes and restaurants). Then continue south.
8. Famous Galle Lighthouse (not open to the public) Corner of Hospital and Rampart St, overlooking The Beach, then follow the walls to
9. Meeran Mosque (open to go inside, remove shoes)
10. Flag Rock. There was a friendly chap willing to dive off the cliff for a fee. I am sure he has the experience and knows what he is doing but it looked quite unsafe. Nobody took him up whilst we were there.
11. Triton Bastion. Along the way there are ammunition bunkers if your interested.
12. Shopping in Pedlar Street – narrow cobblestone laneways. At this point we ambled around the streets looking at various shops, had some lunch, tried a couple of different bars and generally relaxed.
13. The walk finishes at Star Bastion, overlooking the northern coast towards Hikkaduwa.
14. We then hired a tuk tuk to take us around the Fort and gave us a running commentary then returned us to our Hotel Grand Galle which is just outside the Fort.
We started at the front gate and did the ‘Fort Walk’ which is about 2kms roughly around the perimeter. We started late so was a bit hot and probably best done early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are more manageable.
1. Enter Main Gate
2. Historic Clock Tower - head south into the interior of the Fort
3. Museum - small fee to enter, interesting, only small.
4. Dutch Reform Church – can enter, FREE
5. We skipped the Maritime Museum
6. Old Main Gate,
7. Restored Dutch Hospital (up market shops, cafes and restaurants). Then continue south.
8. Famous Galle Lighthouse (not open to the public) Corner of Hospital and Rampart St, overlooking The Beach, then follow the walls to
9. Meeran Mosque (open to go inside, remove shoes)
10. Flag Rock. There was a friendly chap willing to dive off the cliff for a fee. I am sure he has the experience and knows what he is doing but it looked quite unsafe. Nobody took him up whilst we were there.
11. Triton Bastion. Along the way there are ammunition bunkers if your interested.
12. Shopping in Pedlar Street – narrow cobblestone laneways. At this point we ambled around the streets looking at various shops, had some lunch, tried a couple of different bars and generally relaxed.
13. The walk finishes at Star Bastion, overlooking the northern coast towards Hikkaduwa.
14. We then hired a tuk tuk to take us around the Fort and gave us a running commentary then returned us to our Hotel Grand Galle which is just outside the Fort.
Written November 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
W.A Travels & Tours
Colombo, Sri Lanka64 contributions
Oct 2024 • Business
The Galle Fort is the largest remaining fortress in Asia constructed by any European imperial powers. Also known as Dutch Fort or Ramparts of Galle, this architectural and archaeological wonder was first built in 1588 by the Portuguese and lavishly rebuilt by the Dutch during the 17th century. Even after long years from the construction, Galle Fort, a UNESCO's World Heritage Site, is still maintained as fresh. Galle is a major coastal town in the southwest of Sri Lanka and is the finest instance of a fortified city constructed by the Portuguese in Southeast Asia.
Written October 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
evdey0kum
Samsun, Türkiye70 contributions
This walled city hosts magnificent views. There are cafes, restaurants and hotels inside. There are scenic spots where the sunset looks incredible and will be engraved in memories. Inside you will find churches, mosques and temples that you can visit. There are also souvenir shops and art exhibitions, a city to fall in love with
Written November 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
S-Himakara
Colombo, Sri Lanka860 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
Galle is one of my favourite and left a lasting impression on me with its prefect blend of history and beachside relaxation. Located about 115 km from Colombo, is a coastal town rich in history and natural beauty. The scenic route from Colombo to Galle showcases the picturesque coastline and remnants of the 2004 Tsunami. Galle’s diverse landscape includes beaches, marshlands, and hills with tea and rubber plantations.
Galle's history dates back to the 1500s with the arrival of Portuguese traders, though it was a major port long before. The iconic Dutch Fort, built in the 17th century, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains the heart of the city. Within the Fort, narrow streets, historic buildings like the Dutch Church (1755), and the New Oriental Hotel (now Amangalla) showcase Dutch colonial architecture.
Today, Galle is renowned for its luxury beach villas, boutique hotels, and cultural events like the Galle Literary Festival. The Galle International Cricket Stadium also hosts regular matches, adding to the town's vibrant atmosphere.
Galle's history dates back to the 1500s with the arrival of Portuguese traders, though it was a major port long before. The iconic Dutch Fort, built in the 17th century, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains the heart of the city. Within the Fort, narrow streets, historic buildings like the Dutch Church (1755), and the New Oriental Hotel (now Amangalla) showcase Dutch colonial architecture.
Today, Galle is renowned for its luxury beach villas, boutique hotels, and cultural events like the Galle Literary Festival. The Galle International Cricket Stadium also hosts regular matches, adding to the town's vibrant atmosphere.
Written August 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Are there any good bicycle shops in Galle? I want to buy a mountain bike on my arrival.
Written May 2, 2022
Hello - I am just wondering about what the opening hours of Galle Fort is on Friday 12 January 2018?
Written January 1, 2018
It’s always open and without any charges
Written January 2, 2018
Hey there!
I am planning to spend new years eve at Galle fort. Please recommend a good restaurant that serves seafood and remains open past midnight. Much appreciated.
Written December 21, 2016
hi there so many. good restaurants on the peddlers street if you walk all of them are roadside restaurants which serves good food but if you want sea food peddlers in cafe is good
Written December 24, 2016
Could you please send me some information about family rooms. One of our girls has a disability and we would like to have her in the same room.
Written November 16, 2015
Hi, Im going to be staying in this hotel in December can anyone tell me how rough the sea is this time of year. thanks
Written December 28, 2014
Hi, thank you for contacting us. these days the sea is not really good. Are you looking for Whale Watching? or Diving/ Snorkeling?
Let us know more information.
Bets regards,
Pradeep
Written December 30, 2014
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