4 Places You Can`t Afford to Miss in Galle, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a pristine island country famous for its beaches, spiritual temples, iconic landmarks, ancient cities and tea plantations. And if Sri Lanka is a crown, Galle is its precious jewel. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is dotted with an infinite number of old trading port, Dutch-colonial buildings, churches, mosques and grand mansions – a city that is a treat if explored on foot.

Often considered as a halt by many tourists, Galle`s core is the fort which was built by the Dutch in the beginning of 1663. The sea-facing fort which is the major attraction often lures the visitors to its walled enclave surrounded by the ocean from three sides. If you have applied for onlineSri Lanka visa then do include Galle into your travel itinerary. Here are the places that are must exploring:

1.       FLAG ROCK- The rock which is located at the southernmost end of the Fort was once a Portuguese stronghold. Today the place is most popular with the locals and tourists similarly, to catch a sunset. During the daylight, you can see various visitors and locals jumping off the rocks straight into the water. During the Dutch period, the approaching ships were signaled from the rock about the dangerous rocks and this was how the rock got its name.

2.       DUTCH REFORMED CHURCH- The church that was originally built in 1640 is housed under the building that dates from 1752. The building features a floor which is made from Dutch cemeteries while the other appealing features include the organ and an imposing pulpit which was made from calamander wood which is topped by a grand hexagonal canopy. There is also a small carved window which is a memorial dedicated to a former Commander of Galle, Abraham Samlant. You can visit this church when in Galle and for that apply for online Sri Lanka visa on time.

3.       MARINE ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM-Occupying the old spice colossal warehouse that was built by the Dutch, the Marine Archeological Museum was built in the 17^th century. Originally the structure was built as a part of the main gateway to the Fort and even today it forms certain parts of its ramparts. After getting neglected for decades, the building was shut only to be reopened in 2010 as a museum after two years of renovations.  

4.       AMANGALLA- Today the Amangalla houses a luxurious hotel with bar, lobby and restaurants that are open and worth a look, but originally the building was built in 1684. The building was a residence of the Dutch governor and officers initially but later on it transformed into New Oriental Hotel to accommodate the passengers travelling to and from Europe in the 19^th century.

Sri Lanka is although famous for beaches, but its cities are nevertheless famous too! Do visit Galle and the iconic Galle Fort to experience the bygone era. To apply for online SriLanka visa, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.