How To Reach Galle Lighthouse

Traveling to Galle Lighthouse, Galle, Sri Lanka

The Galle Lighthouse stands as a beacon of history in Galle, a city located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. Here's how you can reach the iconic Galle Lighthouse:

By Air

The closest international airport to Galle is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. Upon landing, you have a few options to reach the lighthouse:

• Private Taxi: Hiring a taxi directly from the airport to Galle is convenient and the journey takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on the traffic.
• Airport Shuttle: Some hotels offer shuttle services from the airport. Check with your hotel if this service is available.

By Train

From Colombo: Take a train from the Colombo Fort Station to Galle. The train journey offers scenic views of the coastline and takes approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive at the Galle Railway Station, the Galle Lighthouse is a short tuk-tu k or taxi ride away.

By Bus

Public buses are available from Colombo to Galle and may take up to 3-4 hours depending on traffic conditions. The bus station is close to the city center, and from there, visitors can hire a tuk-tuk to the lighthouse.

By Car

If you prefer driving, Galle is connected via the Southern Expressway (E01), which significantly cuts down travel time to just about 1.5 hours. While parking spaces are limited near the large historical sight, there are several spots around the city.

Note: Galle Lighthouse is located inside the historical Galle Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you reach the fort, you will have to explore on foot, as motor vehicles are limited inside to preserve the area's heritage.

Best Time to Visit

Visiting the lighthouse is recommended during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is most favorable for exploration.

Make sure to respect the heritage site's regulations and enjoy your visit to one of Sri Lanka's most splendid historical landmarks!