Tipped to be one of the must-visit hotspots in the paradise isle of Sri Lanka the southern capital of Galle is an ideal day trip option for visitors based in Anantara Kalutara Resort or other resorts in the area. Although Galle is within easy driving distance of the beach Mecca the wealth of attractions available in Galle surpasses most points of interest places to visit in Kalutara and other beach hubs along the coastal belt in terms of historic and recreational value.
As a Heritage City, Galle is perhaps best known for the iconic Dutch Fort which is arguably the most visited landmark in the entire southern coast of Sri Lanka. Declared a UNESCO Heritage Site the mammoth defence mechanism built in 1588 is not only a popular tourist attraction but a cultural epicentre in its own right. Hosting many a local festival the venue of the famed Galle Literary Festival is home to countless colonial era attractions including the Dutch Reformed Church, the Meera Mosque and the National Maritime Museum. Angling fanatics on the other hand can enjoy a spot of tilt fishing in Galle. As one of the oldest and most traditional forms of line and hook fishing tilt fishing is a unique experience that is not just reserved for fishing fanatics.
Galle is also one of the southern region’s main tea producers with several tea factories occupying its confines. Visitors can not only tour a functioning tea factory the likes of Nahinigala but also explore the many complex processes of creating a perfect cup of Ceylon tea from plucking tea leaves right through to packaging. Conservationists visiting Galle can visit the famed Sea turtle hatchery situated in Habaraduwa. As a leading institution in the conservation of the endangered species by protecting eggs laid on the beach to releasing hatchlings back in to the ocean.
A river cruise on the Koggala River is another must-experience excursion when holidaying in Galle as the body of water houses Madol Duwa Island which inspired a bestselling local novel of the same name by Martin Wickramasinghe.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
