Galle fort is in the Galle district which is situated in the southern end of Sri Lanka. Galle is not just a pretty place. Not only is it a vivid example of the various colonial influences on Sri Lanka, it is one of the few cities in Sri Lanka that has beautifully blended the old and the new. A day trip away from the white sands of Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna, it is fast becoming the go-to spot for visitors who are drawn to its architectural surprises, shopping for antiques, crafts or gems to its festivals including the literary festival in February and to international cricket games.
The famous Galle fort was first build by the Portuguese and modified by the Dutch in the 17th Century who captured the coastal cities. The Dutch improved the city and built this massive fort in Galle as a defence system. Even after 400 years of existence, Galle fort looks new and polished. In fact, Galle was recognized as a world heritage site in 1988.
The southern sea is beautifully visible from the fort and many visitors like to spend the evening enjoying wonderful sceneries. Apart from the many Dutch buildings, Galle fort has luxury boutique hotels (E.g. Amangalla, Aman resorts, New Orient Hotel, etc.) within the vicinity of the Fort and one of the must see travel destinations in Sri Lanka.
