Lots to explore along the Southern coast of Sri Lanka
ou are less than a mile, a 10 minute walk, 2 minute Tuk Tuk / Bike ride, to the nearest beach stretch or a historical temple rich in heritage and culture. Hikkaduwa Surf beach, a 5 minute Tuk Tuk ride away, is one of the best surf spots and most popular beach stretches in Sri Lanka. Hikkaduwa is also famous for their Delicious Seafood, Relaxing Massages, Buddhist Temples, Water-Sports such as Surfing, Snorkeling, and Diving.
Galle offers stunning beaches, the colonial charm, delectable food and loads of fun!
The city of Galle, nestled in the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is a charming and delightful place to visit. Popular among locals as well as tourists, Galle can be reached in approximately 20 minutes from our Property
Things To Do In Galle
Galle got its fame from this historical fort that was initially built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, followed by various renovations by the other colonial invaders that took control, viz: the Dutch and the British. Exploring this Dutch Fort is the best way to kick off your Galle holidays. In every nook and cranny, you will witness the architectural wonders of the colonial powers who factored in safety measures in the most incredible manner.
Besides walking alongside its ramparts, there are various things to enjoy, like visiting its museum, tasting the local refreshments at the cafes nearby and gathering souvenirs to take home.
The most recognizable part of the fort, the Galle Light House, towers over the palm trees framed location on the beach overlooking the ocean with picture-perfect beauty. The history of this watchtower dates back to 1848, although it was rebuilt to the present form in 1939. Sticking out of the walls of the Galle Dutch Fort, the still-in-use lighthouse ushers the ships into the Galle harbor.
A short stroll along the Fort’s ramparts shall take you there. Walk around this monument. When the lights adjust themselves, take an awesome picture of yourself with the backdrop of the ocean and this white-painted tower.
Galle boasts of one of the few maritime archeology museums in Sri Lanka. You should never miss out on this during your Galle holidays. Once the Dutch Warehouse, it is located inside the ramparts of the Fort. It shows you the various artifacts of the maritime past of the country, such as models of boats and vessels, artillery, and relics.
Walk up to this small charming edifice that will tell you a coherent story of the traditional coastal life of the natives of Galle and how colonialism influenced the region via a wide array of archaeological and anthropological entities showcased inside, like traditional masks used in rituals, ornaments, handicrafts, wooden carvings and what remains of the Dutch force like their vessels and arms.
Hopefully, you don’t expect a modern exhibition! Being the oldest of the Dutch buildings of the Galle Fort constructed in 1656, the National Museum of Galle is in itself in possession of much historical value.
Positioned within the ramparts of the Galle Dutch Fort, The Lighthouse Street is a lavishly renovated sanctuary that awaits the most discerning travelers to Galle. Located just near the cafes and boutiques of the region, it was originally a Dutch house built for a Dutch merchant and his wife, by a renowned Sri Lankan architect back in 1800.
Facilitating a super-luxury relaxing experience for the guests, in true colonial style, The Lighthouse Street has stunning bedrooms, magnificent interior spaces, arches, verandas, formal living areas, a private bar, and a library in addition to outdoor amenities like a private swimming pool and courtyard, plus, exclusive services including a private chef who will accompany your hangout there.
The Galle Fort Clock Tower, also known as the Anthonisz Memorial Clock Tower, is an important landmark of the region, situated overlooking the central Moon Bastion. Positioned within the ramparts of the Galle Dutch Fort, this four-story tall stone edifice of 25.3 m (83 ft) was constructed in 1883 modeled on a design by John Henry Gues Landon. It was built in recognition of the colonial Surgeon Dr. Antonisz and funded by the public.
Take a selfie near the tower, or go up to the bastion to click the wide and full-frame photos of the clock tower. Both the surroundings and the monument itself are some of the great places of Galle, to spend your time at.
One of the must-see spots in Galle, the Historical Mansion Museum is one of the biggest privately owned museums in the world boasting the display of a huge collection of antique jewellery, traditional crafts, typewriters, cameras, and other colonial artifacts. Located in a restored Dutch house that dates back to the 1700s, the building is very much an antique in itself and the Ideal place for history enthusiasts.
Visitors will witness live embroidery presentations and the process of cutting and polishing precious gems here. The central courtyard has several stone sculptures and things from the colonial era. Happily, most of what is displayed there is available for purchase.
Need some rest from all the sightseeing? Head up to this magnificent oceanfront where the soft golden sandy stretches evenly merge with the shallow ocean water and palm trees and vegetation fringes the border. Apart from winding down on the beach enjoying the sunset and panoramic ocean views, the activities to enjoy here include several water sports, underwater diving and snorkeling, and perfect canoeing.
The perfect spot to relax and enjoy some quiet time where thick flora and interesting piles of rocks replace the usual sandy stretches beside the turquoise ocean water creating an idyllic environment. This hidden oceanfront is popular for the pure experience of diving and snorkeling around the vibrant coral gardens. You can take a mini hike amidst its vegetated surroundings and take boat rides. The Jungle Beach is located just 3 Kilometers away from the city of Unawatuna. Hire a tuk-tuk to get there.
Serendipity Lake
Morakola Watta, Morokola,
Dodanduwa, Hikkaduwa,
Sri Lanka
Tel/ WhatsApp: +94 (0) 779115118
Email: reservations@serendipitylake.com