Galle is the 4th largest city by Lankan standards and the capital of the southern province of the island with a population of 100,000 people. It is located in the south-east of Sri Lanka on the shores of the ocean, 145 km from the international airport of Colombo, next door to the popular resort of Unawatuna. Galle is also a popular tourist destination for travelers who want to enjoy palm trees and clear sea without being cut off from the benefits of civilization.
Galle on the map
Locals call this place Gal, Gael, but among the Russian-speaking population it came into use as Galle.
First of all, it is a sightseeing destination. Tourists from all the resorts come here to see the European buildings built by the Dutch, to admire the fort with the snow-white lighthouse, which is included in the list of sites protected by UNESCO. There are Catholic cathedrals, an old town, and plenty of stores. It holds day trips for travelers from neighboring resorts who come to stroll the old streets, do the necessary shopping, and make a difference to a relaxing beach vacation. A branch line of the Colombo-Matara railroad runs through Galle, so those who like extreme and adventurous can take a train ride among the jungle.
Staying in Galle for a long time is quite boring, the city is small, you can walk around it in a day. But it is not possible to enjoy a beach holiday here, because there are no suitable conditions for this.
Galle Beaches
Galle beach is a sad sight. There are crowds of locals, the sea is dirty, the port. Not at all the tropical fairy tale that dreams of an island lost in the ocean present. There are good beaches in the nearby towns of Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna, where locals and tourists go to swim and sunbathe.
Weather in Galle now
Weather in Galle by month
Temperatures in Galle are stable, hovering around 30 degrees above zero during the day all year round and dropping to 28 during the tropical rainy season. They come twice a year, in spring in May and June, and in fall in September. During this time, the water temperature in the ocean drops and there are no sunny days at all; it rains 24 hours a day.
The main sights of Galle
- Yala National Park – Home to many exotic wildlife, including leopards, elephants and crocodiles, Yala National Park is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Dambulla Cave Temple – With more than 150 Buddha statues and frescoes, this ancient temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress – Built in the 5th century, this ancient citadel boasts unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Polonnaruwa is an ancient city that was once the capital of Sri Lanka and is home to many historical ruins and temples.
- Tea Plantations – Taste the world-famous Sri Lankan tea at the region’s many tea plantations, where you can see the process of tea making in person.
The best time to visit Galle
The best time to visit Galle is from December to March, when the weather is cool and dry. However, if you are looking for a more affordable trip, visit the city between April and November, when prices are lower and the crowds of tourists are smaller.
How to get to Galle
Galle is well connected by road and rail, making it easy to explore the region. Tuk-tuks and cabs can be rented here, and many attractions offer guided tours.
Where to stay in Galle
There are plenty of accommodation options in Galle, from luxury hotels to inexpensive guesthouses. For a true Sri Lankan experience, stay with a homestay family where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.
In conclusion
Galle is an incredible destination that offers a unique combination of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you are a lover of nature, history or just want to relax and unwind, Galle has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Galle, Sri Lanka.
Video overview of Galle from travelers
