Vidya Balachander is a food and travel writer based in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Formerly the features editor of BBC Good Food India, her work has also featured in Mint Lounge, Vogue India, National Geographic Traveller India, Time Out Mumbai and the 2010 edition of Fodor’s Essential India guidebook.
Destinations
Galle
Activity
Culture, Cities, HistorySeason
January - DecemberThe quaint charm of the 430-year-old Galle Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most-visited destinations – is best experienced on foot. The cobblestone streets and narrow alleys of the fort, first built by the Portuguese and later fortified by Dutch colonisers, are particularly good for unhurried walks.
The Fort packs a number of architectural and historical landmarks into a compact space. Some of these include the 17th century Dutch Reformed Church, the Maritime Museum, the courthouse where typewriters are still used, and the Meeran Mosque, a striking structure that is a testament to the Fort’s multi-ethnic social fabric.
Most tours will rush you through in an hour or two, I suggest you allow at least three hours for a thorough exploration. A good guidebook and map will help you plan your walk, although it is impossible to get lost inside. I recommend staying at least two nights to fully soak in the laid-back vibe of the Fort.
Given its location on the southwestern coast, the best time of year to visit is between December and April.
Related Guides
Sri Lanka off the beaten track
Will I need a visa?Citizens of most countries (except Singapore, the Maldives and Seychelles) require a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit Sri Lanka. To apply for the ETA, visit
Must-visit historical sites in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape has been shaped by millennia of religious influences, global commerce and the legacy of colonial rule. While the central part of the country is dotted with
What To Eat In Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan food is often compared to that of South India, and they do share some similarities in terms of ingredients and techniques. But Sri Lankan cuisine has a distinct identity, thanks to the communities and cultures that have shaped the country’s history.
-
Explore Galle Fort on foot
...