Exploring Galle Fort, Sri Lanka

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988, the Galle Fort is an unique exposition of an urban ensemble that illustrates the interaction of European  architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries.


This fort, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka in the bay of Galle was first built by the Portuguese in 1588 before being extensively fortified by the Dutch in the mid 1600s. It is this heavy fortification that prevented the city of Galle from the massive Tsunami of 2004.


The Galle fort, one of Sri Lanka’s seven UNESCO World Heritage sites is a great place for a relaxed walk. Such a walk will help you explore its rich history and interact with its multi-ethnic and multi-religious population.


The famous Galle Fort walk spans from the Galle International Test Cricket stadium to the Indian Ocean coastline and around it. During this walk, you will come across many heritage monuments in the fort such as the Dutch reformed church, the old Dutch government house, the National Maritime Museum near the Old gate, residence of the commander, Great Warehouse built around 1669, the Meera mosque built in 1904, Buddhist temple built at the site of Portuguese Roman Catholic Church, the All Saints Anglican Church built in 1871 and the Clock tower dated 1707.


If you plan well, you can explore the  entire Galle Fort properly and without much effort or exertion. During early mornings and late evenings, you can explore the coastal side of the Galle Fort along with the fishermen’s colony and the brilliant sea views.


During the day when the sun is high, you can explore the museum, jewellery shops that showcase the famous Sri Lankan gems, the interior design shops, book stores, cafes and fashion outlets. The Amangalla hotel, which is the erstwhile Dutch Governor’s residence is also a great way to spend the day and the night.

If you are adventurous enough to bear the heat and walk on the fort fringes during the day time, you will see a lot of land monitor lizards basking in the sun. This walk in the sultry weather will also ensure that you get to enjoy Tabili, the tender coconut water drink that is sold in small shops along the walking route.


After my recent experience at this fort, I would totally recommend exploring this fort and its historical buildings by foot. This would give you a nice archaic touch to the overall experience.

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Old Galle’s Lighthouse

There is something about Lighthouses that interest everyone. Be its history, its splendid location or its commanding views from the top, all lighthouses have a certain oomph factor.


Such lighthouses were the norm for 2 and a half centuries till modern navigation devices took over. Personally, I have been to quite a few of such lighthouses and find them real interesting. In today’s era, we will find that most of the lighthouses are closed for the common man, but if you do find one that allows entrance, climb right to the top, relish the wafting sea breeze and soak in the stunning views of the coastline and the open waters.


And if you happen to exploring the fort area of Galle in Sri Lanka, do try and pay a visit to this strikingly white lighthouse that functions even today. The lighthouse in itself is a great sight against the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. I am sure the views from the top will be even better though tourists are not allowed to climb to the top.


And be it a sunny day or a dark cloudy day, this scene will remain etched in your memory for a long time. Such is its beauty.

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Spectacular Galle Coastline

The best place to admire the Galle coastline is from the top of the bordering Galle Fort. This ancient fort, which prevented the 2004 tsunami from hitting the Galle town offers stunning views of the waves hitting the rocks below.



The entire Galle coastline can be easily seen from the fort. In fact, a leisurely walk ensures that one can see different aspects of Galle from old Galle to fishing towns to lighthouses to beaches and many more. I am sure it is an even better sight during the monsoons when the seas are rough.

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Indian Hut: Lip Smacking Indian Cuisine near Galle Fort

If you are in and around the Galle fort and if you want to bite into some lip smacking Indian food while staring at the waters of the Indian Ocean, then look no beyond Indian Hut, a great Mughlai joint. This restaurant is located in the old Galle area and close to the lighthouse near the Galle Fort. These folks do not serve pork, beef or liquor, but whatever else they serve is a treat for the taste buds.



The place is done up in retro style with a steep spiralling metal staircase right in the middle of the restaurant. If you wish to be closer to the clay ovens and see how your food is dished out, you can sit in the Ground Floor and if you prefer an ocean view, then grab the 1st floor seats. Food here is reasonably priced and costs about 600-800 LKR per head depending on vegetarian or non-vegetarian fare. Apart from the clay oven items, the Biryani is also good here.

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Best Seat to watch cricket at Galle

If you ever wish to watch a cricket match at the Galle International cricket stadium and are unable to get yourself a ticket, don’t break a sweat. You still might have the chance to get a great seat with a fantastic 360 degree view of the entire stadium. This seat is at the neighbouring Galle Fort that overlooks the stadium and the Indian Ocean.

 
Not only is this a great place for watching the match, but also offers ample space to park your camera equipment and take some long distance shots, provided you have a high focal length lens. All you need is a large umbrella to protect yourself from the elements and some food and water to keep you satiated. And you are all set to enjoy your cricket match.

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