Galle & the Southern Beaches
Sri Lanka
The fortified old town of Galle is enjoying an artistic renaissance and its revival has in turn influenced its coastline, whose turquoise seas and palm-fringed beaches are now home to super-luxury and charming boutique hotels.
Historically, Galle has been an important trading port, and various nationalities have all left an indelible stamp on the rich history and character of the town. Although an important cultural site, Galle Fort remains a 'living’ monument with a thriving community within.
In addition to Galle, Bentota and Tangalle are the best beach destinations in the island, and also excellent bases for exploring its major wildlife parks and cultural heritage.
Galle is also the gateway to the coastal villages and sandy beaches of Unawatuna, Thalpe, Koggala, Habaraduwa and Ahangama. The sea is generally calm and in Unawatuna, the reef shelters more fish than the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
If you grow tired of lounging on the beach, local attractions include the Mulgirigalla Rock Temple and the Bundala and Uda Walawe National Parks, where animals including elephants, monkeys and water buffalo can be seen. Buddhist temples, tropical rainforests, and mangrove-lined lakes and waterways home to numerous species of birds and monitor lizards makes this area interesting for nature lovers as well.
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