Solo Explorer: Galle, Sri Lanka (Ceylon)

Galle Fort

Galle, Sri Lanka (Ceylon)

Galle is one of the major cities in Sri Lanka and a very famous Tourist Destination in Sri Lanka. It is Situated on the southwestern tip, 116km (72mi) from Colombo city. Galle can be reached Colombo Galle (A2) main road or the Southern expressway (if you use Southern expressway you have to exit at Pinnaduwa exit) as well as from the southern railway. Galle is the administrative capital of Southern Province, Sri Lanka which was known as Gimhathitha in ancient times. The term is believed to be derived from the classical Sinhalese term meaning "port near the river Gin" when it was the main port on the island. Galle reached the height of its development in 18th century, during the Dutch Colonial Period and is considered the best example of a fortified city built by the Portuguese in South and Southeast Asia, showing the interaction between Portuguese architectural styles & native traditions. The Galle Fort is a world heritage site & is the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers.

Another prominent landmark in Galle includes the natural harbour, the National Maritime Museum, St. Mary's Cathedral, the Clock Tower (25.3M, 83ft) made in 1882 and the Galle Lighthouse (18M, 59ft) build in 1939. Galle is home to the Galle International Stadium, which is considered one of the most picturesque Cricket grounds in the world. The ground, which was severely damaged by tsunami, was rebuilt and test matches resumed there on 18 December 2007.

Important natural geographical feature in Galle includes Rumassala in Unawatuna, a large mound-like hill that forms the eastern protective barrier to Galle Harbour. Local tradition associates this hill with some events of Ramayana, one of the great Hindu epics. The major river in the area is the Gin River (Gin Ganga).

Climate

Galle features a tropical rainforest climate. The city has no true dry season, though it is noticeably drier in the months of January and February. As is commonplace with many cities with this type of climate, temperatures show little variation throughout the course of the year, With average temperatures hovering at around 26°C (78.8°F) throughout.

Galle Fort

In the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Galle Fort was built first in 1588 by the Portuguese, then extensively fortified by Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards. It is a historical, archaeological, and architectural heritage monument, which is maintaining it’s polished appearance since more than 432 years, due to extensive reconstruction work done by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka. The fort has a colorful history, and today has a multi-ethnic and multi-religious population. The Sri Lankan government and many Dutch people who still own some of the properties inside the fort are looking at making this one of the modern wonders of the world. The heritage value of the fort has been recognized by the UNESCO and the site has been inscribed as a cultural heritage UNESCO World Heritage Site under criteria iv, for its unique exposition of "an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries. As it exists today, it covers an area of 52 hectares (130 acres).

Things to do In Galle

Jungle Beach & Bay- Just a short ride from Galle is to reach Jungle beach, It's one of the most famous tourist destinations in the local & international tourists. They enjoy the beach and it’s a safe place to take a seawater bath including many beach activities to do. If possible, try to avoid Sri Lankan public holidays it will be fully crowded on such days.
Unawatuna- It's just 6km (3.7mi) away from Galle and is more attractive and prominent place nearby Galle. Unawatuna beach is a graceful semicircular curve of sand not much more than a kilometre. The sheltered bay is safe for swimming. If you are a beach party lover, it's an ideal location for you to enjoy the evenings & chilly nights.
Toothsome Sea Food- If you are a Seafood lover then Galle might be a heaven for you. Seafood is a delicacy here for obvious reasons. Fried cuttlefish, prawns curry & variety of fishes Cuisines can tempt your taste buds.
Spellbinding Sunset- Evening walks around the Galle Fort and watching the sunset is a mesmerizing thing to do. Galle Fort is among one of the most prominent places to see the sunset in the world. It hosts the most gorgeous & picturesque view, many people walk on the ramp of Galle fort from the clock tower to the lighthouse. It would be a marvellous experience in your life.