Sri Lanka is home to some seriously beautiful beaches. But Galle’s beaches tops them all! In the city of Galle, rich history and heritage are embedded deeply. The natives believe that the city has been named after the Sinhala term ‘Gala’ which means ‘rock’ in English. And indeed, it provides a series of views, culture and activities to enjoy on its grounds!
If You Have Only 24 Hours, You Can…
1) Explore Galle Fort With A Local
Make an informed local guide and commence your walk from the main entrance, and scan the remarkable fortification from the inside. You can also get a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean and the iconic cricket ground here. People will tell you the tales behind them, and the threats which once ensued in the ocean. Explore the mainstream spots but also the hidden gems within the 150 acres of Galle Fort. Get exclusive and detailed stories about the religion, history, architecture, daily life and also the devastation caused by the 2004 Tsunami. This place was once the largest living seaport in Asia, and brims with tales of a colonial past, that a local can enlighten you about!
2) Enhance Your Culinary Knowledge
Interested to know the recipe of Sri Lanka’s iconic dishes that include curries, salads and sambols? Then start by going to a local market stall where you can pick what you need from an array of vegetables. Then with the peaceful, paddy-field as your backdrop, you can learn to cook these iconic dishes from an experienced chef. Then you can taste the fruit of your labour and relish the flavours. You’ll also learn about the different health properties of the leaves that are used in this cuisine and also get a deeper look at the village, brazing buffalos and gorgeous tea plantations too!
If You Have 48 Hours, You Can...
1) Try Deep Sea Fishing!
Drift, fish or just simply float on the Weligama bay. Go for either a half-day or full-day experience that will begin at 6:00 am. Whatever you choose, you’ll be helped by an experienced crew and will jet into the bay. You’ll come across and perhaps catch a wide variety of fish like GT, Wahoo, Spanish Mackerel, Yellowfin tuna, Sailfish, Grouper, Snapper and also Mahi Mahi. Swordfish and Marlins are also found in the bay but they’re kind of rare! Since this area believes in the preservation and conservation of aquatic life, you can catch and release the fish your net caught! Even if you don’t end up catching a fish, there’s a lot more in this experience to otherwise enjoy. Like the winds blowing on your face, the sound of the ocean beneath you, the sight of the roaring and lowering sun and much more.
2) Witness The Giants Of The Ocean
You can see large groups of whales in their natural glory in the peak season on a small but sturdy boat. You will also get a chance to see blue whales, false orcas, spinner, bottlenose dolphins and also turtles bustling with life in the Indian Ocean. The sight of so many marine mammals will mesmerize you and if you especially visit this region within November to April, the chances of seeing blue whales will rise to 90%.
3) Explore The Paddies & Plantations of Galle
Take yourself out for an adventure on the blooming paddy and cinnamon plantations in the majestic southern countryside. Go on trails that will open your eyes to the village life, take you to local temples basking in spirituality and also the local landscape surrounded by meandering paths and lanes. Tea bushes, banana trees, jaggery, pineapple plantations and coconut palms will be a common sight here and the rural side of Galle on a bicycle will give you a deeper insight into the life there.
4) Know The Story Behind Cinnamon’s Popularity In Galle
The Southern Province is the world’s best producer of cinnamon. How did this happen? You’ll find answers for it in this experience! Let a local guide take you through a hillside estate and educate you about the local techniques used. You’ll be welcomed with cinnamon-infused juices and beverages constantly and would love to devour it all! You walk further uphill to watch local peelers unite to process cinnamon. Let them tell you about the various advantages of using cinnamon, and also how this region was affected by colonization.
If You Have 72 Hours, You Can…
1) Learn To Surf!
You can learn how to surf in the waves of Weligama Bay, with a sincere instructor to guide you throughout the way. Weligama Surf School thrives in an isolated part of the bay, surrounded by palm trees. The atmosphere is peaceful and not loud and people here will greet you with warm smiles & friendly gestures. Your instructor will teach you how to navigate through the waves and conquer the water and it will be full of adrenaline rush and lots of self-confidence! But if you ace it, you’ll feel victorious and good about yourself. The instructors will also teach you the technical aspects of using a surfboard in the water and after such patience and hard work, you can relax with some local snacks & refreshments nearby.
2) Discover And Understand The Village Life
Go on an adventure to find out more about the village life of the southern countryside. Upon arrival, allow a localhost to guide you along the rural waterways and back roads of Galle. You can expect to see some soul-stirring and calming scenery along with a glimpse of the simple lives led by the villagers here. When you’re at the riverbanks, you’ll see a line of local villages, rubber and cinnamon plantations, rare birds and reptile life too! You can take your bike out to ride through a 9km stretch that will cover the beautiful view of the paddy fields, hamlets and also their markets. You can end the journey by stopping at a traditional mud hut to indulge in a re-energizing herbal tea!
3) Explore Kapu Ela
You can begin your exploration of Kapu Ela from a 20hour canoe trip led by an experienced guide and naturalist. The best time to venture through this area is early morning when you can see different species of birds hovering over your head. Herons, kingfishers and egrets will greet you with their distinct sounds and you’ll also come across water monitor lizards and the gruesome green vine snake which reside in the trees. The local wildlife and the lush mangrove forests are the reasons why people visit this region. If you’re a nature enthusiast, this experience will definitely be amazing for you!