Enjoy a day filled with Cultural and Historical stories that have been one of the main historical events in Sri Lanka that laid the foundation of a modern era. This Galle day tour will give you the opportunity to explore the breathtaking architecture of the Galle Dutch Fort and later on a lovely visit to one of the turtle hatcheries to see the baby turtles.
Itinerary Summary
Galle Dutch Fort
- This magnificent piece of architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site was initiated by the Portuguese in the 16th century, seeing some of its best days during Dutch rule in the 18th century, until the British took over in 1796.
- Enter the fort through the main entrance which bears the carved logo of the British monarch on the outer wall and the VOC symbol of the Dutch East India Company in the inner wall. Observe the magnificent building with its old stone walls, the ramparts, Dutch colonial villas, the clock tower, the Old Dutch Hospital, Dutch period houses, the beautiful Dutch Reformed Church and the old Bread fruit tree, thought to be the oldest bread fruit tree in the country.
- The fascination about the Country Side is that it is a living historical site and not just another well preserved piece of architecture. The Country Side covering 52 hectares of land is one of the busiest places in Galle with a multi-ethnic population living within its walls. Walk around the old town and the ramparts; visit the Maritime Museum, Country Side Temple, Antique shops, Country Side Mosque and the many hotels and restaurants around. Enjoy the beautiful view of the Indian Ocean over the fort walls.
Turtle Hatchery
- Visit the turtle hatcheries to spend time with the adorable baby turtles and witness turtle hatching.
