Top 3 places to visit in Galle 2023
Galle is a historical and commercial city located in the Southern regions of Sri Lanka. It is one of the major coastal cities in Sri Lanka, which has been known as the trading center of India which Portuguese traders established in the 16th century. The Portuguese built fortresses, bridges, and some churches till the 17th century. Galle city achieved the status of a beach resort in 1819 during the British colonial period when Royal Navy’s ships visited this place for repairing and refitting. Today Galle city is also famous for its natural surroundings and beautiful beaches with harmonious sand dunes and Indian ocean views that attract tourists from all over the world every year. You should include these hottest places in your itinerary in 2023.
Galle Dutch fort
Galle Dutch Fort is the oldest and largest Dutch fort in South Asia. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established this fort in 1640, and it served as a major trading post for the VOC in Sri Lanka.
The most important items of trade between Sri Lanka and Europe during this time period were spices, cotton, silk, wine, and tobacco. Galle Dutch Fort was also used as a prison for many years.
The history of Galle Dutch Fort is full of battles, wars, and politics. The first battle fought at this fort was between the Portuguese and the Dutch in 1639. This battle resulted in victory for the Portuguese army because they outnumbered their opponents by 2 to 1. However, the Portuguese lost their control over parts of Sri Lanka after this victory.
In 1652, the Dutch managed to defeat their enemies again but only temporarily because they did not have enough manpower to hold on to their territories throughout Sri Lanka. They had to retreat back to Galle due to a lack of manpower until they recruited more soldiers from India and China who were willing to fight for them against their local enemies there such as Sinhalese kings or Portuguese traders who were trying to take over parts of Sri Lanka from them which led to another war.
Now many hotels and restaurants are situated inside the fort, and it attracts many local and foreign tourists every day. There are many shops and activities that take place in the fort every day and it gives new life to this oil fort. You can see magical sunsets over the sea while sitting on the Galle fort.
Location: In the bay of Galle city
Best time to visit: During the morning and the evening of every day
Time: Open 24 hours a day
Fees: No entry fee
Unawatuna Beach
Unawatuna beach is the most visited beach in Galle city, and it is a magnificent beach. Unawatuna Beach has a very beautiful natural environment, and it is surrounded by high hills, which makes it a perfect place to enjoy your holiday or spend a night in Sri Lanka.
Unawatuna beach is a long strip of sand backed by rocky headlands and palm groves that have been described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beach has been awarded several awards by international travel magazines.
The main attractions of Unawatuna Beach are the wide expanse of golden sand with clear waters, white-sand coves, lush coconut palms, and spectacular views. The quiet unsplit beach offers a perfect place for sunbathing and swimming. The best time to visit Unawatuna Beach is between November and February when it is not crowded with tourists crowding around food stalls and souvenir shops.
Location: In the bay of Galle city
Best time to visit: November to April
Time: Open 24 hours a day
Fees: No entry fee
Image source: https://explore.vacations/destinations/unawatuna/
Jungle beach Unawatuna
Jungle Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in Sri Lanka. It is known for its clean white sand, clear blue waters, and beautiful tropical landscapes. This place is a paradise for all nature lovers and animal lovers.
The beach has more than 20 kilometers of golden sand that stretch all the way from Galle Road to Unawatuna. There are also several resorts along the coastline and some of them have their own private beaches to enjoy your stay. This secluded paradise is also home to some of the most exotic animals in Sri Lanka including leopards, monkeys, turtles, and even butterflies! You can find them here as well as flamingos which are attracted by the abundance of fish swimming around in their natural habitat.
Location: In the bay of Unawatuna city
Best time to visit: November to April
Time: Open 24 hours a day
Fees: No entry fee
For more travel tips: https://travellerduet.com/travel-tips/
Image source: https://journeys.meshaun.lk/the-jungle-beach-in-galle/
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