How To Reach Galle Fort

Traveling to Galle Fort, Gale, Sri Lanka

Galle Fort, located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts. Here's how you can reach Galle Fort:

By Air

International visitors will most likely arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can choose from the following methods of transport to get to Galle Fort:

Domestic Flight

Though there are no direct flights to Galle, you can take a domestic flight to the Koggala Airport, which is the nearest airstrip to Galle. From Koggala, it's about a 20-minute drive to Galle Fort.

By Road

• Private Taxi/Cab: You can hire a private taxi from Colombo or directly from the airport. The ride takes about 2 to 2.5 hours via the Southern Expressway (E01).
• Bus: There are regular bus services from Colombo to Galle. Buses depart from the Central Bus Stand in Colombo and drop off near Galle Fort. The express buses are faster, taking around 3 to 4 hours.
• Ridesharing: Services like Uber and local app PickMe also offer long-distance travel options that can get you to Galle Fort conveniently.

By Train

Traveling by train is a scenic and affordable option. Trains from Colombo Fort to Galle run frequently throughout the day and take approximately 3 hours. The Galle Railway Station is a short walk or tuk-tuk ride away from the fort.

By Sea

It's also possible to arrive in Galle by sea. Galle Harbour is a stop for some international cruise ships.

Note: Public transport can be crowded, especially during peak hours and on public holidays. For more comfort and flexibility, consider hiring a private car or using a ridesharing service.

Important Tips for Visiting Galle Fort

• Remember to dress modestly since Galle Fort is a residential area with religious sites.
• Carry sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated as the Sri Lankan sun can be intense, especially during midday.
• Have some local currency (Sri Lankan Rupee) available for small purchases and donations at religious sites.

If you need further assistance in planning your visit or would like recommendations for accommodation and local tours, please reach out for personalized services.