Galle Fort, located on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, is a historic site rich in colonial history and architectural beauty. The Portuguese built it in 1588, and the Dutch expanded it in the 17th century. This impressive fortress showcases Sri Lanka’s colonial past and architectural skills, blending European and South Asian styles.
Spanning 52 hectares, Galle Fort offers a fascinating glimpse into the colonial era. The fort features large walls, bastions, and historic buildings that mix European and local architectural styles. Important bastions include the Sun Bastion, Moon Bastion, and Triton Bastion. These bastions were used for defense and also provide great views of the surrounding area, perfect for taking photos.
The history of Galle Fort is also interesting. Before the Portuguese arrived, Galle was a key port on global trade routes. The Portuguese built the original fort, which the Dutch later expanded into a strong defensive structure. The British made further improvements, adding a lighthouse and other defensive features, enhancing the fort’s strategic importance.
Although Galle Fort was damaged in the 2004 tsunami, it has been carefully restored. Supported by Sri Lankan and Dutch authorities, the restoration has preserved the fort’s historical character while making it accessible and attractive to visitors today. The fort stands as a symbol of resilience and reflects Sri Lanka’s rich history.
For history enthusiasts, Galle Fort offers a deep look into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Visitors can explore the Dutch Reformed Church, see the remains of the Portuguese chapel, and admire 18th-century Dutch architecture. Informative plaques and exhibits throughout the fort provide insights into its historical significance.
Walking through Galle Fort, you will see charming streets lined with low-rise houses that have gabled roofs and verandahs. This pleasant environment is ideal for leisurely walks, where you can visit local shops, cafes, and art galleries. The fort’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by its diverse community, making it a welcoming and vibrant place.
Planning a visit is straightforward as Galle Fort is easily accessible by public transportation from Colombo. Galle is well-connected by bus, and it takes about 1.5 hours to travel the 145 kilometers from Colombo via the Southern Express Highway. This is the quickest way to travel if you want a shorter journey.
There is no fee to enter Galle Fort, though some attractions inside may have small charges. While visiting, you might also explore nearby attractions such as the Galle Lighthouse, the National Maritime Museum, and local beaches. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from December to March.
Route from Colombo
To reach Galle Fort from Colombo, you have several convenient options. You can take an express bus from the Maharagama Bus Terminal, Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand in Pettah or the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Center in Kottawa. These buses travel along the Southern Expressway (E01), reaching Galle in about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive at the Galle Bus Terminal, Galle Fort is just a short walk or a quick tuk-tuk ride away.
Alternatively, you can take a regular bus (Route No. 02) from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand in Pettah, Colombo, which follows the coastal road (A2) and takes about 3-4 hours due to multiple stops along the way.
For those who prefer the scenic route, boarding a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Galle is another great option. The train ride takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and offers beautiful coastal views. Upon arrival at the Galle Railway Station, Galle Fort is within walking distance.
If driving, you can take the Southern Expressway (E01) from Colombo, reaching Galle in about 1.5 to 2 hours. Galle Fort is a well-known landmark and is easily accessible from both the Galle Bus Terminal and Railway Station.
