How to plan your next trip to Galle

Exuding the colonial charm, Galle is a Sri Lankan city found on the country's southern coast. This coastal city is everything a tourist could hope for. The sun, the beach and delicious Sri Lankan food is the combination you are offered here. Getting to Galle from Colombo is quite easy, and there are several modes of transport available. The main attraction is the Dutch Fort, but there are many other things to do here as well.

1. Best time to visit

Sri Lanka's climate remains pretty consistent throughout the year. However, unexpected rainfall may interrupt your travel plans. While you shouldn't worry too much about the ideal time to visit, your best bet is the period from December to April. Even if you visit during the monsoon months, you have a good chance of seeing all the sights.

2. Where to stay

Galle is one of the most visited tourist spots in Sri Lanka. The city has plenty of accommodation options for tourists. Hotels in Galle are very much in demand, and Fortress Resort and Spa is an example of the type of accommodation you find here.

3. Dutch Fort

The key feature of Galle, the Dutch Fort, should be on any Galle travel itinerary. The fort was a Portuguese idea; however, it was later worked on by the Dutch; this is evident from the numerous architectural characteristics that can be seen. A considerable number of foreigners have moved into the fort, and they have revived the colonial character of the place. Inside the fort are plenty of attractions, including shops, cafes and restaurants.

4. The ramparts

The seafront ramparts are another popular feature of Galle. A tourist can stroll on these outer walls of the fort and admire the surrounding beauty. Expect to be completely blown off by the sunrise and the sunset. This part of the fort is never empty, so you'll have people around all the time. The sea views here are the best thing you'll ever experience.

5. Shopping

Galle is dotted with boutique stores, and they are all aimed at tourists. Clothes, handmade jewellery, various souvenirs and shoes are available in abundance here. You also have art galleries and gem stores; there's nearly a hundred of them.

6. Sample Sri Lankan food

Sri Lankan cuisine has plenty of dishes, and if you can, you must try them all. Galle is one of the best places to find delicious seafood in Sri Lanka. Galle restaurants serve a variety of food items.

7. Explore the markets

This Sri Lankan coastal town has several street markets. They sell a range of things, including fresh produce and handicrafts. Local fruits like mangosteen can be found here, and pineapples are another delicious find. Compared to the stores within the fort, you get much better prices at these local markets. Most boutique shops inside the fort are aimed at tourists, which is what makes them less authentic. To get the full Galle experience, you need to visit the markets.

8. Cycling

For a different experience, you can choose to cycle through the rural areas of Galle. Bike rentals are readily available. Cycling is the best way to feel like a Galle native.

9. Watersports

Being a beach destination, Galle offers a plethora of water sports. Canoeing is one such sport you must try. Suba diving, on the other hand, is an excellent way to appreciate Sri Lankan marine life. If you haven't done scuba diving before, you can take diving classes. Galle is a superb surf spot too; snorkelling is your option if you don't want to dive. For an adventurous spirit, Jet skiing is the best thing. Parasailing and canoeing are on the list of Galle things to do as well – on a canoeing trip; you'll be given a chance to witness the incredible Sri Lankan wildlife.