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Galle and the South Coast

golden beaches, sheltered bays and a fascinating history

Sri Lanka’s accessible southern coast is a blissful blend of golden beaches, sheltered bays and a fascinating history. Galle is the most prominent city in the south, and beckons visitors with its colonial charm and crumbling Dutch architecture.

Lapped by the sparkling Indian Ocean, sleepy fishing villages line the southern coast and exude an easy-going atmosphere. The beaches found here are some of the best in the country, and are perfect for anyone looking to kayak, swim or snorkel. If you’re searching for a secluded spot, the little-known town of Tangalle offers a string of tranquil shores ideal for relaxing.

Drenched in history and culture, the south coast has so much more to offer than just being a fantastic beach destination. One of it’s highlights is Galle, a charismatic coastal town filled with intriguing architecture that dates back centuries. Occupied by the Portuguese in the 1500s, Galle passed to the Dutch in 1640 only to be claimed by the British in 1796.  

The most impressive sight within Galle is the historic Fort area, a World Heritage Site constructed by the Dutch in 1663. With impressive coral-built ramparts and great bastions overlooking the Indian Ocean, taking a walk along its atmospheric old streets will transport you to a long-gone era.

Other interesting sights include the beautiful Kalutara temple, a must-see for any culture lover. The temple itself is nestled within a beautiful patch of scenery, and offers particularly beautiful views from the Peace Pagoda at sunset. If you’ve been inspired to visit Sri Lanka’s enchanting southern coast, then get in touch with one of our Asia experts to start creating your tailor-made, luxury itinerary.


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Luxury Hotels in Galle and the South Coast

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Kahanda Kanda, Galle Galle and the South Coast

The 12 standalone villas, seven of which come with private pools, are scattered throughout the hotel’s tranquil gardens and offer spacious interiors adorned with elegant art and antiques. Service is …

Coco Tangalla, Beach House and Villa Galle and the South Coast

Looking for a beach house overlooking the ocean where you can hole up for a week without being disturbed, except by the very important delivery of daily breakfast?  Or a very private place to stay …

Amanwella, Tangalle Galle and the South Coast

At the end of winding jungle road near the small village of Tangalle, Amanwella overlooks one of Sri Lanka’s most peaceful bays. Though unashamedly contemporary in design, it still manages to blend into the …

Amangalla, Galle Galle and the South Coast

Amangalla originated from the sanskrit for ‘peace’, and it is aptly named. If you stay in this imposing, colonial building you will be able to stroll the cobbled streets and tortuous alleyways of a 36-hectare, …

Aditya, Hikkaduwa Galle and the South Coast

Actually it’s ‘Aditya’ that refers to gods, and the hotel’s suites are named after the 12 Hindu mythological sun deities.

Sun worshippers will understand why. This small, boutique-style hotel is in the …

The Last House, Tangalle Galle and the South Coast

With its sublimely relaxed atmosphere and beachfront setting, The Last House should be among the first hotels you consider for your luxury, tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka. One of the …

Fort Bazaar, Galle Galle and the South Coast

Is this one of the most romantic, intriguing, friendly, distinctive and beautiful destinations on the planet? Take a luxury, tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka and stay in the Fort Bazaar in the centre of Galle’…

KK Beach, Galle Galle and the South Coast

A chic boutique hotel with an enviable beachfront location, KK Beach offers an intimate stay with just 10 guestrooms and suites. All are equipped with airy, ensuite bathrooms and outdoor terraces, …

Karpaha Sands, Passikuda Galle and the South Coast

Made up of powdery-soft sands and swimmable turquoise waters set in a crescent-shaped bay, with plenty of swaying palms to seek shade under, Kalkudah Beach must be one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri …

Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa, Mirissa Galle and the South Coast

Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa lies on the very southern tip of Sri Lanka in the charming fishing village of Mirissa, basking in warm tropical sunshine and framed by …

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort Galle and the South Coast

Framed by a coconut plantation and golden sands, the family-friendly Anantara Resort offers guests a tranquil space to unwind or explore the delights of Tangalle and its surrounds, from nature …

Kumu Beach, Balapitiya Galle and the South Coast

These are combined with a gorgeous 23 metre infinity pool where you can gaze out over the Indian Ocean, as well as a serene palm-studded garden. It’s the perfect spot …

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