Galle covers a wide area, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort to the beaches which surround it, including Unawatuna, Thalpe and Koggala, and some rural inland places. SriLankaInStyle offers a vast range of experiences in this area, as it is extraordinarily diverse and caters to a wide variety of interests, from thrill-seekers looking to indulge in exciting water-sports to those who are keen to explore Sri Lanka’s fascinating history and culture.

The beaches near Galle are in themselves surprisingly varied: popular Unawatuna Bay is a great spot for lively beach bars and trying some exhilarating water-sports, including snorkelling, wake-boarding, scuba diving and sea kayaking; Thalpe is ideal for those seeking to relax on a tranquil tropical beach, and is home to the renowned Wijaya Beach restaurant; surfers in search of some great waves should head to Ahangama, whilst Koggala is famous for the Sri Lankan stilt fishermen and its near-deserted beach. Between Narigama and Dodanduwa – west of Galle – you’ll find pristine, unspoiled beaches which offer the ultimate escapist getaway. Jungle Beach, a secluded cove near Unawatuna which is thickly veiled by jungle on all sides, is tricky to access but can be found with some help from the friendly local fishermen.

We also offer a range of exclusive experiences in the inland areas which surround Galle, all of which give an insight into authentic Sri Lankan culture. Visit the Virgin White Tea Factory, or learn all about the story of cinnamon. Go cycling along quiet paths passing picturesque paddy fields, or try our ‘Bikes, Boats and Bites’ tour which takes you on a scenic journey along the river to a local village for some traditional hoppers cooked over an open fire. The active may also like to trek through the tranquil Kanneliya Rainforest, or take a private yoga class in stunning surroundings.

There are numerous experiences to try within Galle Fort as well. Foodies will love learning how to cook Biriyani with a local family, or taking the Paddy Island cooking class and discovering how to make a variety of traditional Sri Lankan curries. Couples seeking romance should have a private roti dinner in the middle of a paddy field, illuminated by oil lamps. We also offer several experiences for those with an artistic eye: take a mask-making workshop with a local artist, or go on a full art tour in nearby Ambalangoda and explore several traditional Sri Lankan crafts including puppetry and batik. Children will love our ‘Art on the Ramparts’ activities whilst parents go on a walking tour around the Fort.