Galle is one of the jewel cities of Sri Lanka, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Galle is a vibrant and historic city that seamlessly blends colonial heritage with contemporary coastal life. Visitors are often captivated by its charming streets, Dutch architecture, vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful coastal views. The Galle Fort is a World Heritage Site that is the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers and the city’s top attraction. Beyond the fort, the modern Galle thrives with bustling local markets, cultural festivals, and a lively fishing harbor that highlights the city’s maritime heritage. The city is also a gateway to stunning beaches, such as Unawatuna and Jungle Beach. It is a popular base for whale watching, snorkeling, and diving. With its rich past, artistic soul, and laid-back coastal vibe, Galle offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking both culture and relaxation.
Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a remarkable testament to Sri Lanka’s colonial past and maritime legacy. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, the fort served as a strategic stronghold along the Indian Ocean trade routes. Its impressive ramparts, bastions, and lighthouse overlook the sea, while inside, a charming grid of cobbled streets unfolds with colonial-era buildings, Dutch churches, museums, and mansions. This historic fort offers a glimpse into its past while providing breathtaking panoramas of the Indian Ocean. As you wander through its narrow alleys, you’ll discover quaint cafes, artisan shops, and the warm hospitality of the locals. Take a sunset stroll along the fort’s ramparts to cap off the day. Viewing the stunning Galle Lighthouse and the fort’s most distinctive feature. Galle Fort is rich with literally hundreds of boutiques, art galleries, spice and gem shops, and handicraft shops, and the vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for shopping. Visitors can stroll along the walls at sunset, explore centuries-old architecture, and enjoy the fusion of European and South Asian charm that defines the fort. With its blend of heritage and modern appeal, Galle Fort continues to be one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured and visited destinations.
Rumassala is a scenic and culturally rich area located near the coastal town of Unawatuna, just a few kilometers from the historic city of Galle in southern Sri Lanka. This tranquil hill, covered in lush greenery, extends out into the Indian Ocean and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and spiritual significance. One of the most fascinating aspects of Rumassala is its connection to the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to legend, when Lakshmana, the brother of Lord Rama, was wounded in battle, the monkey god Hanuman was sent to retrieve a life-saving herb from the Himalayas. Unable to identify the specific plant, Hanuman lifted an entire chunk of the mountain and carried it back, accidentally dropping a part of it on Sri Lanka—creating what is now known as Rumassala. As a result, the hill is believed to be home to rare medicinal plants not typically found in the region.
Rumassala is also a haven for nature lovers and adventurers. The surrounding jungle is part of a small sanctuary that hosts a wide variety of birds, butterflies, and small mammals, making it a great spot for eco-tourism. Nestled at the base of the hill is Jungle Beach, a secluded and serene coastal stretch known for its calm, clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Another notable attraction is the Japanese Peace Pagoda, a pristine white stupa built by Japanese Buddhist monks as a symbol of peace and harmony. From the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, Galle Fort, and the surrounding coastline. Rumassala is a perfect blend of myth, spirituality, nature, and relaxation, making it a unique destination in Sri Lanka’s southern region.
Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka is known for its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life, including colorful fish. It offers unforgettable snorkeling and turtle-feeding experiences. Visitors can explore the underwater wonders while enjoying the warm, crystal-clear waters. Besides snorkeling and diving, you can try surfing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. With plenty of beachside cafes and restaurants, visitors can also savor delicious and fresh local seafood while soaking up the sun. The lively atmosphere, coupled with breathtaking sunsets, makes Hikkaduwa a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts. Hikkaduwa beach is safe for families with children. There are plenty of options for children to enjoy while parents relax in the sun. Hikkaduwa city also offers a lively nightlife with numerous beach bars, restaurants, and cafes lining the shore. Notable perfect beaches include Akurala, Narigama, Piti Wella, and Turtle beach.
Unawatuna is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Sri Lanka and is the most “famous” beach in the country. Unawatuna Beach offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit location for those exploring the region. It’s truly a slice of paradise on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. And One of the country’s most popular and picturesque coastal destinations. Known for its golden sands, calm turquoise waters, and palm-fringed shoreline, the beach offers a perfect setting for relaxation and water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Rumassala south beach is plentiful in biodiversity and the reef acts as a protected sanctuary and serves as a major archaeological site. Notable perfect beaches include Rumassala, Jungle beach, Dalawella, Mihiripenna, Angel beach and White sand beach.
The beach’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by a range of beach-front restaurants and cafes, where travelers can savor delicious local cuisine with its picturesque sunset views and lively nightlife.
Nestled along a small ravine on the west coast, was once a sleepy fishing village today however it has turned into a major hot spot for tourists looking for white sandy beaches with perfect surf to relax in. The town caters for all types of accommodation from star class to beach villa style accommodation. It is not much reputed as best tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. But it another nice place to add your beach tour in Sri Lanka. Ideal place to sunbathe and unwind with friends and loved ones. Good and safe beach for families with children.
Koggala is a small coastal town, situated at the edge of a lagoon on the south coast of Sri Lanka, located in Galle District. Koggala beach is calm and surrounded by the jungle vegetation and blue waters hitting the golden sands, the perfect place to relax. Also, Koggala is famous for its distinct stilt fishermen, who erect a single pole in the chest-deep water on the beach to catch small fish. A picture-perfect scene is created by these fishermen in the early morning with sunrise and evening time with golden sunset. Meanwhile, Koggala Beach has the honor of being the longest beach in Sri Lanka. And its pristine beauty and seclusion make it desirable by snorkelers.
Koggala Beach isn’t a famous surf spot but it’s a downright stunning beach with decent breaks. The best time to surf here is also the dry season, which tends to see the best S-SW swells filtering through Indian Ocean and the conditions are cleaner, though recommend early morning and evening surfs anyway to avoid the winds that come as the land heats up throughout the day.
And visiting the wild sea turtle’s sanctuary is the most popular thing to do in Koggala and Kosgoda (near to Koggala city). The sea turtle hatching season typically happens in August through October and is the best time to potentially witness turtle hatchlings emerging from their nest and scamper their way across the beach and into the ocean.
Koggala Lake boat safari offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the region. As you glide through the tranquil waters, keep an eye out for exotic birds, playful monkeys, and the lush greenery that surrounds the lake. Visitors can take a boat ride to the lake and explore certain islands. Madol duwa is one such island that has gained fame over the years. On some islets there are Buddhist hermitages that can also be visited.
Ahangama is located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, just before reaching Weligama. Ahangama Beach is a hidden gem known for its stunning sunsets and serene atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to relax on the golden sands or explore the vibrant marine life while snorkeling and surfing. Ahangama offers a perfect escape for all beach lovers. Kabalana beach is ideal for surfers of all levels. It is known for its super long white sandy beach and has an area of gentle breaks that is perfect for beginners. The Rock, also located in Kabalana, is known for its A-shaped reef break, considered one of the best in Sri Lanka. Recommended this spot for intermediate and advanced surfers. Staying in Ahangama is quite an experience; there are hotels and villas of all types and sizes you can imagine, catering to every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a cozy beachfront bungalow or a luxurious resort with all the amenities, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Fulfilling seafood cravings at Ahangama Beach cafes is an experience that delights both the palate and the senses. With the sound of waves crashing nearby, diners can enjoy freshly caught fish and other local delicacies while soaking in the stunning coastal views.+
The Cinnamon Experience is a unique and informative journey through the urbanity of a cinnamon plantation. You can get the secrets about the history of true cinnamon, the maintenance, the medical benefits and other important facts about cinnamon while you visit an experience about the harvesting process and the typical village life by yourself. Enjoy the Peacocks that regularly visit Kurundu Villa and dream of the Kings of past, the Cinnamon wars and sinking Cinnamon ships of yonder. Fill your day with the memories of the legendary Cinnamon making experience.
Ahungalla, set on a beautiful stretch of coast between Bentota and Galle, is known for its swaying coconut palms, clear blue sea, and golden sandy beach. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and unwinding. Basket ware and handicrafts can be bought locally, but this area is famous for brightly decorated, traditional hand-carved wooden masks. The accommodation here is excellent, as the town plays host to some of the most luxurious hotels on the west coast. And indulging in fresh seafood from local restaurants. It is an ideal location for swimming, turtle watching, sunbathing, snorkeling, beach volleyball, and a variety of other water sports. The surrounding jungles are the perfect place to spot elephants and some of the wide variety of birds that fill the area.
