Galle Lighthouse,Sri Lanka

• Galle Lighthouse (seaward end of Galle Fort ramparts)
• Galle Fort ramparts and walls
• Dutch Reformed Church and colonial buildings within the fort
• National Maritime Museum (nearby)
• Unawatuna and nearby beaches (short drive)

• White masonry lighthouse set on the historic ramparts
• Dramatic Indian Ocean views — especially at sunrise and sunset
• Photogenic meeting of colonial stonework and rugged sea
• Close proximity to narrow cobbled streets, boutiques and cafes within the fort

• Walk the fort ramparts to the lighthouse for panoramic ocean views
• Photography at sunrise/sunset — highly popular
• Guided walking tours of Galle Fort covering colonial history
• Relax at nearby cafes and spot local fishermen by the rocks
• Combine visit with a trip to the Maritime Museum or a short beach stop at Unawatuna

December to April — generally the driest, sunniest months on Sri Lanka’s south coast; evenings are ideal for lighthouse views.

Tropical coastal climate: hot and humid year-round. Southwest monsoon brings heavier rain roughly from May to September; inter-monsoon showers can occur at other times.

There is no fee to walk the ramparts or view the lighthouse from outside; the lighthouse tower itself is not usually open to the public (access subject to change). The fort area is accessible during daylight hours — ramparts are best visited at sunrise/sunset.

Nearest major airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo, ~2–3 hours by road); domestic options include flights to Mattala in the south but road transfer is common. Galle has a main railway station and regular buses from Colombo and other cities. The lighthouse is reached on foot via the fort’s cobbled streets; watch for uneven surfaces and steps.

1–3 hours to see the lighthouse and walk the ramparts; allow a half or full day to explore the fort, museums, shops and nearby beaches.

Light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes for cobbles and steps, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). Bring a light rain jacket in the monsoon months.

Try south-coast seafood dishes, hoppers (appa), kottu and lamprais at local eateries. Souvenirs: batik textiles, lacquerware, wooden masks, handcrafts, and locally made jewellery.