Fort Bazaar
Galle

The team behind the acclaimed Wallawwa welcomed this boutique hotel, The Fort Bazaar, in January 2016.

Situated in central Galle Fort, a 17th century UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fort Bazaar boasts 18 immaculate and airy rooms and suites, which strike the perfect balance between contemporary and classically cool, making sure Galle’s rich heritage remains a feature. This amalgamation of the city’s rich culture is also reflected in the design of the hotel; they have beautifully renovated the building back to its glorious 17th century self and furnished the space with tasteful and understated Middle Eastern touches, reflecting the fort’s Moorish history.

The buzzy restaurant and bar, Church Street Social, offers a tempting range of dishes blending traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and Middle Eastern influences evoking Galle’s past as an important spice trading hub. At night, the candlelit interior courtyard is reminiscent of a scene from Arabian Nights. They have succeeded in creating an exciting new addition to the hotel and restaurant scene in Galle, by respecting its melting pot legacy and holding up against the high calibre competition. 

It’s worth noting that at present, the swimming pool isn’t open, but there is free access to the pool of a nearby hotel, 10 minutes away, or the pool at sister property, The Beach Club, 15 – 20 minutes away; and there is currently no liquor license, although guests may bring their own alcohol.

My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus