A slow travel guide to Galle, Sri Lanka
5 min readThe new face of travel is slow and considered. Through five comprehensive city guides that promote living like a local, Vogue Singapore’s May ‘Escape’ issue takes you into the heart of the underrated creative capitals around the world that are ripe for exploration. Don’t expect any of the usual haunts or Instagram-famous tourist spots. Here, you’ll find insider recommendations driven by authenticity and connection.
Galle is a major city on Sri Lanka southern coast with the spirit of a small town. 129 kilometres from Colombo, the historical trading port may be known best for its grand colonial architecture (and Unesco-listed forted) but this postcard-worthy city is a cauldron of delicious food and warm local culture—with a growing artist community to watch.
The beating heart of this city lies at Galle Fort, a storied landmark of Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Between the chic boutiques, cafes and hotels that have popped up in recent years, you can still find vignettes of authentic Sri Lankan history, culture and hospitality. One good-looking storefront worth a stop is Stick No Bills, a well-loved poster and print shop on Pedlar Street, one of Galle’s most prolific shopping destinations. But don’t come to the Fort with a predetermined list of shops to visit—true magic lies in getting lost in its time-worn laneways, discovering their wonders on your own.
Sri Lanka’s southern coast is dotted with scenic beaches that are some of the most beautiful in Asia with their pristine turquoise waters fringed by lush palm trees. A stay in Galle is incomplete without visits to at least a few of these pradasical shores. Below, find a curated list of recommendations for where to stay, eat and shop in Galle—to serve as a jump off point for your exploration of the rest of this beautiful city.
1 / 7
Amangalla
One of the most luxurious stays in Galle (and arguably, the whole of Sri Lanka) sits inside Galle Fort. In true Aman fashion, much of this 300-year-old property’s original colonial architecture has been preserved, complemented by refined updates and touches of opulence. When you wander out of your high-ceilinged suites, make an appointment at the tranquil Aman Spa to experience its comprehensive ayurvedic programme or hydrotherapy suites. The afternoon tea, with fresh pastries and refreshing cups of local Ceylon brew best enjoyed on the scenic veranda or pool terrace, is a must-try.
2 / 7
Kahanda Kanda
If you’re looking to stay somewhere a little further from the action and daily footfall of Galle Fort, this boutique hotel is the right distance from both the excitement of the city and the palmfringed beaches of the southern coast. There are a total of only 10 gorgeous suites, each well-stocked with antique furnishings, framed prints and photographs, and little libraries of books that will keep you entertained in the moments when you’re not gazing off the secluded hilltop compound to a breathtaking view of its surrounding 4.9-hectare tea estate.
3 / 7
39 Bistro & Wine Bar
Beat the sweltering Sri Lankan heat at this chic bistro inside The Fort Printers, a boutique hotel restored from an 18th-century mansion. With a focus on organic and seasonal local produce, the kitchen whips up a variety of dishes—from tacos and mezze grill to piping hot Sri Lankan curries (we recommend the mahi mahi and prawn). If you’re there near the golden hour, grab an al fresco seat in the scenic courtyard filled with frangipani trees.
4 / 7
Abacate
This family-run streetside diner is a cult favourite with locals and travellers alike. It serves some of the most delicious and well-priced food in Galle. Dig into traditional Sri Lankan fare such as egg hoppers or flavourful pots of curry served with rice, and wash it all down with fresh fruit juices and piping hot coffee made with home-ground beans bought from a local plantation.
5 / 7
Kottawa Conservation Forest
This small and secluded rainforest is the perfect place to get lost in—metaphorically, of course, since the visibly marked trails make it difficult to lose your way—on a balmy morning. Teeming with rich flora and fauna, it’s refreshing to walk through and will take up to two hours at most. If you’re lucky, you will encounter plenty of exotic bird species. We recommend wearing long pants and covered shoes to avoid the occasional leech.
6 / 7
Galle Literary Festival
One of the most exciting literary events in Asia, this festival has become an annual highlight in the city’s cultural calendar. From authors to architects, diverse voices in poetry and prose gather for an exchange of ideas and stories, with thought-provoking panel discussions and vibrant events on the programme. This year’s edition saw Singapore’s Balli Kaur Jaswal speaking on a riveting panel about building communities in fiction.
7 / 7
Beach hopping
Whether you’re looking to do heavy-duty water sports or just lounge on a golden patch of sand, these are the best beaches near Galle to shortlist.
Dewata Beach
With soft and slow waves and an absence of sharp reefs and rocks, this surfer’s haven boasts a renowned surfing school with qualified instructors.
Unawatuna Beach
This family-friendly beach 15 minutes away from Galle Fort is perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving, with a healthy smattering of popular restaurants and nightlife.
Dickwella Pehebiya Beach
It might take you slightly longer to get here, but this beach is well-worth the visit as it is home to Sri Lanka’s best artisanal cocktail bar nestled in a coconut grove—Smoke and Bitters.
The May ‘Escape’ issue of Vogue Singapore is available online and on newsstands now.
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