Best of Galle

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Galle
Perched on a peninsula on Sri Lanka’s southeastern coast, the historic city of Galle nestles within colonial fortifications that date back to the 16th century. Wandering the narrow brick lanes of this UNESCO World Heritage site takes you past 300-year-old Dutch mansions, neo-Gothic churches, whitewashed Buddhist temples, and cathedral-like mosques. The compact layout of the old town means you can pack a lot into a day trip here. If time allows, however, it’s worth spending the night in one of Galle’s historic hotels. Some have pools, gardens, and sea views.

On a walking tour around the old town, you’ll learn about the history of Galle’s settlement by the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch, and later the British. Old buildings transformed into museums shed light on the colonial period, and unique architecture seems to lurk around every bend. A little over an hour’s drive north of Galle, the Kanneliya Rainforest is part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve of waterfalls, lakes, and dense canopy. On a guided hike, you’ll learn about the region’s diverse flora and fauna, while also having the chance to spot wildlife, including two different primate species and unusual birds like the Sri Lankan jungle fowl and the red-faced Malkoha.
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Sunrise in Galle
Map of Highlights of Sri Lanka - 8 Days
Highlights of Sri Lanka - 8 Days

This eight-day itinerary takes you to the heart of Sri Lanka for ancient history, Buddhist culture, and exciting adventures in nature. From Negombo (near the capital), you'll experience a slew of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, tour a tea plantation, meet elephants, and explore towns loaded with Portuguese and Dutch colonial history. End each day with an opportunity to catch an alluring sunset that only South Asia can offer.

Views across the Sri Lankan highlands from Little Adam's Peak
Map of Sri Lanka Highlights: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Yala & Galle - 9 Days
Sri Lanka Highlights: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Yala & Galle - 9 Days

From the UNESCO-listed ruins of the Cultural Triangle to the historic Indian Ocean fortress of Galle, this nine-day introduction to Sri Lanka rounds up all the highlights of the island's south and central regions. Explore the ancient civilizations of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, tour the sacred temples of Kandy, take a breathtaking train journey through the tea fields of Ella, and head off-road in search of rare wildlife in Yala National Park.

Hike to Little Adam's Peak for a fun photo opportunity
Map of Sri Lanka Active Adventure - 9 Days
Sri Lanka Active Adventure - 9 Days

This 9-day journey through Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) explores fascinating highlights in the Cultural Triangle—home of ancient cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Buddhist relics. With a private driver and guide, you'll take hikes in tea country, spot diverse wildlife in the rainforest, and relax (or surf) on picturesque beaches on the south coast for an adventure to remember.

Traditional carved masks in Galle
Map of Arts, Crafts & Culture in Sri Lanka - 9 Days
Arts, Crafts & Culture in Sri Lanka - 9 Days

From intricate lacquerware to carved masks and exquisite weaving, Sri Lanka's traditional arts and crafts hold a special place in its cultural heritage. On this fascinating nine-day itinerary, you'll take a deep dive into the island's historical and contemporary artistry. You'll visit the famed weavers of Divulapitiya, admire the ancient treasures of Dambulla, learn the basics of ceremonial mask-making in Galle, and sit down with some of the island's pre-eminent artists in Colombo and Kandy.

See how tea is picked in the highlands of Sri Lanka
Map of A Taste of Sri Lanka - 9 Days
A Taste of Sri Lanka - 9 Days

This nine-day itinerary takes you on a flavorful journey through Sri Lanka's culture and cuisine—from the beaches of the Indian Ocean to the heart of the Cultural Triangle. Alongside an itinerary of ancient temples, wildlife spotting, and countryside cycling, you'll learn the secrets of a perfect curry in Galle, take afternoon tea among the lush gardens of the Hill Country, and embark on a fascinating and fragrant tour of Kandy's Spice Garden.

This whirlwind trip ends with two nights in the beach paradise of Tangalle
Map of Southern Sri Lanka Getaway: Galle, Yala & Tangalle - 5 Days
Southern Sri Lanka Getaway: Galle, Yala & Tangalle - 5 Days

This brisk five-day tour showcases the best of southern Sri Lanka, from cities to beaches to wildlife sanctuaries. See the highlights in Colombo before heading to the bayside city of Galle to explore the picturesque Dutch Fort and visit sea turtle hatchlings at a local sanctuary. Take a wildlife safari tour in Yala National Park to spot the Sri Lankan jaguar, then end your trip by discovering the incredible beaches around Tangelle and Hikkaduwa.

Explore some of Sri Lanka's lush tea plantations in Hatton, Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Galle
Map of Sri Lanka's Tea Legacy: From the Highlands to the Coast - 9 Days
Sri Lanka's Tea Legacy: From the Highlands to the Coast - 9 Days

Unveil Sri Lanka's rich tea heritage over nine days, starting with a tea-infused dinner in Hatton. Tour the Dunkeld Tea Factory before transferring to Nuwara Eliya, where you'll hike in Horton Plains National Park and take afternoon tea on the lawns of a colonial-era hotel. Ride a train over the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella and sip tea at a local tea plantation before heading to Galle to explore Galle Fort. Then, wrap up your tea-savoring trip with a visit to Handunugoda Tea Estate and the Japanese Peace Pagoda.

Visit Kandy's Royal Palace on Lake Kandy during a half-day tour
Map of Uncover Sri Lanka's Rich Heritage & Scenic Beauty - 11 Days
Uncover Sri Lanka's Rich Heritage & Scenic Beauty - 11 Days

Spend 11 days exploring Sri Lanka's best landscapes and cultural attractions. Start with a tour of the Japanese Peace Pagoda in Galle, followed by a bike ride through the picturesque countryside. Next is Yala National Park, where you'll go on wildlife safaris and participate in a cooking demonstration. Continue to Ella for mountain hikes and a scenic train ride to Kandy, home of the Ceylon tea plantations. Finish the adventure by climbing Sigiriya Rock and taking a boat ride along the "Dutch Canal."

Take in the sweeping vistas of the ocean from Rumassala's Japanese Peace Pagoda
Map of Sri Lanka Nature, Culture & Architecture - 12 Days
Sri Lanka Nature, Culture & Architecture - 12 Days

This itinerary mixes the outdoors, culture, and history to create the perfect vacation in Sri Lanka. Witness history in the form of colonial landmarks and marvel at the country's beauty on visits to highland tea plantations and mountain waterfalls. After touring the Sigiriya rock fortress and Japanese Peace Pagoda, end the trip by visiting buildings designed by Geoffrey Bawa, one of the most famous architects in Asia.

Adventure and romance await in Sri Lanka
Map of Romantic Escape to Sri Lanka: Cultural Excursions, National Parks & Beaches - 12 Days
Romantic Escape to Sri Lanka: Cultural Excursions, National Parks & Beaches - 12 Days

See the highlights of Sri Lanka on this romantic luxury tour, experiencing the island's culture and natural wonders. Start in Kalpitiya, where you'll visit historic Dutch sites and local beaches before continuing to Sigiriya. See the giant reclining Buddha of Pidurangala, hike to the top of Sigiriya Rock, then depart for UNESCO-Listed Kandy and its Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Go glamping in Ahaspokuna and trek to Belihuloya's hidden waterfalls, ending with the pristine sands of Galle.

Twilight over Kalpitiya's lagoon
Sri Lanka Glamping Adventure - 13 Days

Sri Lanka's natural beauty takes center stage on this diverse and adventurous 13-day itinerary. Beginning and ending in the capital of Colombo, you'll spend your days exploring ancient temples and fortresses, hiking to secluded waterfalls, relaxing on idyllic beaches, and spotting rare wildlife in two of the country's most spectacular national parks. At night, the sounds and sights of nature will lull you to sleep at a succession of luxurious "glamping" properties.

Spend three days conquering the waves in and around Arugam Bay
Map of Discover Sri Lanka's Coastal & Cultural Treasures - 15 Days
Discover Sri Lanka's Coastal & Cultural Treasures - 15 Days

Explore the diverse variety of Sri Lanka's rich cultural and natural attractions on this 15-day itinerary. Kick things off in Galle with a visit to the Japanese Peace Pagoda and the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Then, it's on to Tangalle to tour a turtle hatchery, relax on pristine beaches, and explore rock-cut cave temples. In Arugam Bay, enjoy bird-watching and three epic days of surfing before continuing to Pasikudah for a leisurely bicycle tour and Negombo to admire colonial-era architecture.

Tour a lush tea plantation and factory in Nuwara Eliya
Map of Ancient Ruins, Scenic Train Rides & Coastal Beauty in Sri Lanka - 8 Days
Ancient Ruins, Scenic Train Rides & Coastal Beauty in Sri Lanka - 8 Days

Discover Sri Lanka's cultural landmarks and natural beauty with this eight-day itinerary. On your first day, hit the ground running on a tour of the Dambulla Cave Temple. Then, discover the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and go on a safari in Minneriya National Park. Climb 1,200 steps to Sigiriya's summit before transferring to Kandy, the country's cultural capital. Enjoy a scenic train ride to Nanuoya, tour a tea plantation, and discover Galle's historic coastal charm to end your action-packed trip.

Set off on a safari in Udawalawe National Park to see some of its resident elephants
Map of Relaxed Culture & Nature in Sri Lanka: Galle to Negombo - 8 Days
Relaxed Culture & Nature in Sri Lanka: Galle to Negombo - 8 Days

In just over a week, you'll explore five iconic destinations across Sri Lanka, beginning with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Then, it's off to see the elephants in the Udawalawe National Park, where you'll go on a safari and visit an elephant sanctuary. Two nights of luxury await in Koslanda with decadent dinners and a picnic lunch at your boutique hotel's private waterfall. Your finale is a scenic trek in the Knuckles Mountain Range before coastal relaxation in colonial-era Negombo.

Journey on scenic trains through Sri Lanka during this nine-day tour
Map of Scenic Trains, Wildlife Safaris & Cultural Highlights in Sri Lanka - 9 Days
Scenic Trains, Wildlife Safaris & Cultural Highlights in Sri Lanka - 9 Days

See the best of Sri Lanka's countryside on scenic train journeys to the sacred city of Kandy and through the verdant tea country of Sri Lanka's "Little England." You'll stop at a plantation to pick tea leaves and sample fresh brews before climbing the whimsical Ambuluwawa Tower for incredible mountaintop views. Visit an elephant orphanage on your way to Yala National Park, where you'll head out on Jeep safaris to spot Sri Lankan leopards before ending your trip exploring the historic coastal city of Galle.

Sunrise across the Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Treasures of Sri Lanka - 20 Days

Discover the magic of central and southern Sri Lanka on this immersive 20-day itinerary. Setting out from Colombo, you'll wind your way through a land rich with culture, history, and natural beauty—visiting countless highlights and hidden gems along the way. Spot elephants and leopards on safari, hike to towering waterfalls, explore ancient ruins and sacred temples, and savor some downtime on idyllic Indian Ocean beaches.

Spend your first night in Galle facing the sunset on the south coast (and see the traditional fishing methods in action)
Map of Immersive Exploration of Sri Lanka - 11 Days
Immersive Exploration of Sri Lanka - 11 Days

Discerning travelers will love this 11-day itinerary in exotic Sri Lanka. The trip kicks off with a private transfer to Galle on the south coast, where you'll take a guided tour of a peace pagoda. Then make a large loop visiting national parks teeming with elephants, ancient UNESCO-listed sites, hiking trails, and swimming beaches on the east coast before returning to Colombo. Partake in a range of optional activities—like private seafood dinners—or explore on your own for a fully customizable experience.

Visit three of Sri Lanka's national park in search of wildlife like the elusive leopard
Map of Discover Sri Lanka's Wildlife, History & Scenic Beauty - 11 Days
Discover Sri Lanka's Wildlife, History & Scenic Beauty - 11 Days

Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka's exciting wilderness and cultural heritage as you travel between three national parks, the highlands, and the coast. The 11-day itinerary includes taking Jeep and boat safaris to spot wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. You'll also visit the ancient city of Kandy to tour the Royal Palace and climb Ambuluwawa Tower. Other highlights include a hike to the top of Monkey Mountain, a jungle walk with a Veddha chief, and a stroll around the Galle Dutch Fort.

Surfing in Sri Lanka
Map of Sri Lanka's Big Waves & Sandy Shores  - 12 Days
Sri Lanka's Big Waves & Sandy Shores - 12 Days

This grand surfing adventure takes you to the best breaks in Sri Lanka—plus, it throws in a few cultural highlights along the way. After visiting historic forts and pagodas in Galle, you'll take a scenic road trip to Arugam Bay, the most famous surf destination in the country. Spend a few days enjoying its point breaks before heading to Weligama, another surf mecca, where you'll ride reef and sand breaks while making new friends.

The lush green mountains of Ella, Sri Lanka
Map of Cycling Tour of Sri Lanka - 13 Days
Cycling Tour of Sri Lanka - 13 Days

This is the quintessential Sri Lankan bike ride! On this two week trip, you will discover local tea plantations, small villages, and historically significant cities — along with some wonderfully diverse riding through a sizeable portion of the island. You'll cycle from the culturally rich north through tea country then down into the southern plains and Horton Plains National Park, finishing in Galle.

Explore Sri Lanka on a 14-day cycling adventure
Map of Hidden Treasures of Sri Lanka Cycling Tour - 14 Days
Hidden Treasures of Sri Lanka Cycling Tour - 14 Days

This cycling tour takes you to Sri Lanka's top cultural sites and also off the beaten path. Cycle along rice fields, tea plantations, and tranquil villages to reach ancient kingdoms rich in history and culture. You also have the chance to explore Sri Lanka's wildlife parks to see herds of elephants roam the wild country.

Spot Sri Lankan elephants on safari
Map of Sri Lanka Family Wildlife Adventure - 14 Days
Sri Lanka Family Wildlife Adventure - 14 Days

Experience the best of Sri Lanka's nature and wildlife experiences on this two-week family-themed itinerary. Looping through the island's southern and central regions, you'll embark on a series of fun-filled safaris, nature walks, biking excursions, and boat trips, with nights spent in comfort at gracious eco-lodges and safari camps. Search for leopards in Yala National Park, see the monkey-filled ruins of Polonnaruwa, watch elephants swim in Gal Oya National Park, spot rare primates on a nocturnal jungle hike, and discover the colorful marine life of Pasikudah.

Traditional fishing stilt aparatus of Koggala Beach, Sri Lanka
Map of Sri Lanka Winter Holiday Adventure - 15 Days
Sri Lanka Winter Holiday Adventure - 15 Days

Eschew the frigid winter for the sun-kissed beaches and verdant mountains of Sri Lanka. Over 15 adventure-filled days, you'll experience the highlights and natural beauty of this mystical gem of the Indian Ocean, from its highland tea plantations to its gilded southern shores. In between, you'll tour ancient cities, enjoy jungle safaris, explore cave temples, swim at romantic waterfalls, go whale watching, and much more.

Recently hitched? Head to Sri Lanka for the perfect honeymoon adventure
Map of Honeymoon Adventure in Sri Lanka - 15 Days
Honeymoon Adventure in Sri Lanka - 15 Days

Ancient temples, sun-kissed beaches, romantic waterfalls, and rolling green hills are the ingredients to create a honeymoon for the ages. Over 15 days, you and your newlywed partner will embark on active adventures and leisurely outings like picnics at waterfalls, nature hikes in rainforest reserves, visits to tea plantations, tours of Buddhist shrines, and explorations of cave temples. Plus, you'll hike up to Sigiriya, the country's iconic rock fortress.

Climb to the top of Lion Rock to visit the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Map of Journey Through Sri Lanka: Beaches, Temples & Wildlife - 15 Days
Journey Through Sri Lanka: Beaches, Temples & Wildlife - 15 Days

Visit nine iconic destinations across Sri Lanka in just over two weeks, starting with a tour of Negomo's colonial-era highlights. Trek to dramatic sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress and surf, snorkel, and chill out on the sands in Pasikudah before moving on to Kandy to explore the Royal Palace and tuk-tuk ride the Three Temple Loop. Then, head out on wildlife safaris in two national parks, sample Ceylon tea at the Dambatenne Tea Factory, and admire the Japanese Peace Pagoda in Galle before ending in Colombo.

Other popular travel destinations in Sri Lanka
Kandy · Sigiriya · Colombo · Negombo · Ella · Nuwara Eliya · Yala National Park · Udawalawe · Tangalle · Wilpattu · Pasikudah · Anuradhapura · Dambulla · Bentota · Mirissa · Habarana