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Galle Fort

Step inside the ancient, 16th-century ramparts of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that perfectly blends European colonial architecture with South Asian traditions. Explore the vibrant, cobbled streets, iconic landmarks like the lighthouse, and discover charming cafes and boutiques within its walls.

Details of Galle Fort: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Open now 

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible toilet 

Wheelchair-accessible car park 

Wheelchair-accessible entrance 

Children

Good for kids 

Parking

Paid parking lot 

Free parking lot 

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Overview - Galle Fort

Galle Fort, locally known as the 'Dutch Fort,' is a historical, archaeological, and architectural marvel. The massive stone ramparts enclose a miniature city filled with a fascinating collection of colonial buildings, museums, churches, mosques, and luxurious hotels. Walking the entire 3 km length of the fort walls is the most popular activity, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, especially during sunrise and sunset at the Flag Rock and Triton Bastions. The fort is not merely a museum but a vibrant, living community, making it a unique cultural and shopping destination.

Tags/ Categories

UNESCO World HeritageHistorical SiteArchitectureWalking ToursShopping & DiningCoastal Landmark

Highlights

Galle Lighthouse-image

Galle Lighthouse

Fort Walls & Ramparts Walk-image

Fort Walls & Ramparts Walk

Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk)-image

Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk)

Old Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct-image

Old Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Colonial Streets & Boutiques-image

Colonial Streets & Boutiques

Nearby Attractions

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Japanese Peace Pagoda-image
Religious Site / Viewpoint

Japanese Peace Pagoda

4.5

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A stunning white stupa on Rumassala Hill offering panoramic views of the ocean, Galle Fort, and the surrounding jungle.

Sea Turtle Hatchery-image
Wildlife Conservation

Sea Turtle Hatchery

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Conservation centers along the coast (e.g., Habaraduwa) dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their eggs.

Koggala Lake-image
Nature / Boat Tour

Koggala Lake

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A tranquil lake known for boat safaris, hidden islands, and a great place to see local birdlife and cinnamon plantations.

Navigations

Galle Fort, Galle, Southern Province, Sri Lanka

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Reviews

KA

Kavinda A

Visiting Galle Fort at night was an unforgettable experience. The moment I stepped inside the old stone walls, I felt a sense of calm and wonder. The entire fort had a peaceful atmosphere, very different from the daytime buzz. The narrow …

a month ago

TO

TONGKY M

Galle Fort area is unlike any other place we’ve found in Sri Lanka; an atmospheric town where culture, religion, and different architectural eras collide in the tropics. Popular with tourists, it’s still very much a living town both within …

a week ago

MA

Marnix Van Der Meulen

Lovely old town. Nice to walk around the fort, which takes you around 1h. Everything is free, but there are a lot of tuktuk drivers/taxi drivers who try to sell you a tour (you can easily explore on your own and read some signs for …

a month ago

MD

Md Fardin Fattah

I can’t believe that this fort is has stole my heart. I had been told if you miss Galle fort then you didn’t see Sri Lanka properly. So we went Galle from Mirrisa by bus. This fort is free and you will need at least 2 hrs to roam properly. …

a week ago

NA

Nataliia Bohdanova

Good place for sunset at the ocean, a lot of restaurants and cafes with good European and local cuisine. A peace of old Europe on the south coast of Sri Lanka. Love this place. It’s an absolute must visit.

a week ago

MA

Manzurul Mannan

Lovely views and a historical site. Lots of people both young and old, couples and families out relaxing and enjoying themselves. Beautiful photo opportunities and many restaurants around too. Many people just sat watching the world pass them by.

3 months ago

BA

bashar alsat

Galle Dutch Fort is an incredible place to visit — full of history, charm, and beautiful views. Walking along the ramparts at sunset is a highlight, with stunning scenery over the ocean on one side and the old town on the other. Inside the …

2 months ago

RA

Rayhan Rahat

Great place, definitely feels like a wonder of past. Greatly built, and amazing structures …

2 months ago

NU

Nurseit Niyazbekov

This attraction is free, but it is very well kept and visited my tourists. You cannot only see the remnants of the fortification, but also some wild birds nesting. There are a couple of nice Instagram worthy photo occasions. The information …

2 months ago

DA

Danushka Madusanka

Galle Fort is a major tourist attraction for both locals and foreigners. On weekends, the area gets quite crowded, and kids especially love flying kites here. The sunset is breathtaking — highly recommended, as long as the weather …

a month ago

AN

Andiamo Harrigan

Absolutely loved our time at Galle Fort. So much history and beauty. Amazing assortment of stores and restaurants within. We could have spent many days and nights there. Awesome, relaxed vibe with very helpful people. This is a must to do for anyone visiting Galle.

a month ago

SH

Shaon Shahnewaz

We had such a wonderful time exploring the Galle Dutch Fort as a couple with our 10-year-old. It’s such a charming place — full of history, character, and amazing ocean views. …

2 months ago

AL

Al Mahmud

Visiting Galle Fort in Sri Lanka was one of the highlights of my journey through the island. The moment I stepped inside the fort’s gates, I felt like I was walking into a living piece of history. Built in the 16th century by the Portuguese …

2 months ago

ER

Eranga Athukorala

Taking long walks along the ramparts, enjoying splendid ocean views, mingling with locals and lazing at cosy restaurants and cafés are the best ways to relax before your long flight back home. …

a month ago

SI

simon gurney

Lots of atmospheric streets to wander, with nice restaurants and cafes, lots of restored colonial buildings to explore. Retains the feel of being a living community while offering tourist comforts. Great atmosphere wandering around at night. Very safe and lots of good value to be had.

2 months ago

HA

Hashan malawana

Galle Fort is a breathtaking blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. The cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and ocean views create an unforgettable atmosphere. From boutique cafes to art galleries, every corner tells a story. Perfect for a relaxing stroll, shopping, or sunset moments truly a gem of Sri Lanka!

2 months ago

KU

kunal gupta

A peaceful place to walk around with lots of history and charm. The old streets, little shops, and sea views make it a lovely spot to spend a few hours. Sunset from the fort walls is worth waiting for.

3 months ago

NI

nikesh madhani

Typically all the beach location will have a fort, and Galle was no different. This fort is huge but its mostly the walls and nothing much. You can take a walk along the walls and watch the sea, clock tower, watch tower. You can shop along …

a month ago

J.

J. Schlichter

Very interesting place to visit. Fairly well maintained. I would recommend booking a walking tour through the fort to get a good overview first and explore on your own afterwards. Theres a good amount of museums and other interesting …

3 months ago

JU

Jullynd Gawigawen

Just a quick visit. Free to enter but there will be some tuktuks offering a whole fort tour for Rs 1,500 since they say its 4-5 hours walking inside. We didn't visited whole place since it was raining but still kinda interesting how the fort was built. Just saddening that a lot of trash is present around the area.

2 months ago

HA

Hasith Lakshan

The Galle Dutch Fort is an absolutely essential stop for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. Our experience here was nothing short of exceptional, offering a beautiful blend of history, stunning coastal views, and a vibrant, yet peaceful, …

a month ago

ZA

Zahidur Reza

A living museum right next to the Indian Ocean, this place transports you straight into the 18th-century colonial past with its massive fort walls and military posts. The preserved colonial architecture makes you feel like you’re wandering …

4 months ago

NO

Norman

Really nice fort. It's a 9km tour if you want do walk around. There is not much shade soo avoid midday if you want to do this. …

3 months ago

GE

Gelitha Jayawickrama

What an absolute delight! 😍 Galle Dutch Fort completely blew me away with its charm and vibrant atmosphere! Every moment was exciting and noteworthy! ✨ I'd enthusiastically recommend it to everyone! 🤩 …

3 weeks ago

SA

SAROSH WADIA

An interesting place with the same buildings changing purpose through out around 200 years of it's existence. …

a month ago

MA

Maria Kumaraperuma

Visited Dutch Galle Fort on a Sunday evening — the atmosphere was lively and relaxed, with a beautiful coastal breeze. The views were absolutely spectacular, especially as the sun began to set. A perfect spot for a scenic stroll and to soak …

4 months ago

LA

Lanka Adventure Holidays (Amila Udayantha Bandara)

My wife and I visited the historic Galle Dutch Fort last Monday, and it was an experience to remember. Walking through the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site felt like stepping back in time. The well-preserved colonial …

Edited 6 months ago

HA

Hay Retona

Beautiful and relaxing place. It can be called the landmark of Galle. …

3 months ago

EN

Eng Siong Lee

Very nice fortification with free entry and you call walked within the fortification, which is called the old town. Or along the fortification itself and let the cool breeze blow across you face. Many cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops around if you need it.

2 months ago

NU

Nuwan Pradeep

A beautiful blend of history and coastal charm. The cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and ocean views make it a must-visit spot. You can enjoy cozy cafés, boutique shops, and a relaxing walk along the ramparts, especially at …

2 months ago