Sri Lanka - coconut grove.jpg Logo Srilanka
Back to Listing

Galle

Like Colombo, Galle was a thriving port long before colonial times and its accessible location on the southwest of the country attracted Arabs, Persians, Romans and Greeks on their way across the Indian Ocean. In 1505 the Portuguese attacked and settled the town, 135 years later conceding it to the Dutch, who built the famous fort. In 1796 the British took over and used the fort as their headquarters. Today, Galle Fort is the old part of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best preserved colonial sea fortress in Asia. No stay here would be complete without a wander along its ramparts that hug the coastline, past the attractive architecture, iconic lighthouse and sweeping beach, especially at sunset.

A quiet and cosy little town in its own right, Galle’s narrow streets are lined by churches, cloistered courtyards and shuttered mansions, which all stand testament to their colonial past. The Galle Fort has recently received a lot of investment from expatriates living in southeast Asia so has a somewhat contemporary flair mixed into its historic feel, with an array of boutique hotels, art galleries, tiny shops, cafés and restaurants. There are also several museums that are worth visiting here, as well as the Dutch Reformed Church and a lively Arab Quarter.

A number of comfortable hotels can be found peppered around the historic Fort area, our top choice being the beautiful Amangalla, and a handful of elegant properties can also be found just outside of the bustling citadel, like Kahanda Kanda - one of our favourite boutique hotels on the island.

Thanks to its small size, Galle is easily explored on foot and works well as an introduction to Sri Lanka’s history, culture and relaxed atmosphere. Therefore, we recommend visiting early on in your tailor-made tour, after flying into Colombo, before following the coast around to Tangalle or heading inland. Day trips from here are a great option too, for Galle is the gateway to the southern beaches like Mirissa and Weligama Bay, where you can enjoy watching whales and dolphins leaping in and out the Indian Ocean.

Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (3).jpg Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (3).jpg
Sri Lanka - Locals Galle.jpg Sri Lanka - Locals Galle.jpg
Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (2).JPG Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (2).JPG
Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (1).jpg Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (1).jpg
Galle, Sri Lanka 2019 (5).jpg Galle, Sri Lanka 2019 (5).jpg
Galle Sri Lanka 2 Galle Sri Lanka 2
Galle, Sri Lanka 2019 (6).jpg Galle, Sri Lanka 2019 (6).jpg
Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (4).jpg Galle, Sri Lankka 2019 (4).jpg
Travelling is like flirting with life. It's like saying, 'I would stay and love you, but I have to go; this is my station.
Lisa St. Aubin de Teran

Client Testimonials

I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences