Galle
in Sri Lanka

Galle

Galle is a city located on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its Dutch-colonial architecture and its fortifications. The city is located on a promontory and is surrounded by the Indian Ocean on three sides.

Galle is the administrative capital of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka and is a major port city. The city is known for its fishing industry, its spice trade, and its traditional handicrafts. The city is home to many cultural attractions and is a popular destination for tourists.

Galle has a long and rich history. It was first occupied by the Portuguese in 1588, and then by the Dutch in 1640. During the Dutch period, the city was fortified with a wall and a fort. The fort was used to protect the city from attacks by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British.

In 1796, the British captured the city and renamed it Point de Galle. The city was then occupied by the British until 1948, when Sri Lanka gained independence. During this time, the British built a number of colonial buildings, which still stand today.

Galle is home to many cultural attractions, including the Galle International Cricket Stadium, the Dutch Reformed Church, and the National Maritime Museum. The city is also home to a number of festivals, including the Galle Literary Festival and the Galle Music Festival.

Galle is a city of great historical and cultural significance. It is home to many attractions and is a popular destination for tourists. The city is also known for its fishing industry, its spice trade, and its traditional handicrafts.

Experience Galle with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Galle. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Galle

Galle in Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (from December to March) and the wet season (from April to November). During the dry season, temperatures are generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 33°C. The wet season is characterised by heavy rainfall and high humidity, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 30°C. The monsoon season runs from May to October and brings strong winds and occasional cyclones. The best time to visit Galle is from December to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry.

Cruise weather for Galle

Our weather forecast for Galle helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.