Sri Lanka is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean that is known for its natural beauty, exotic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. One of the most prominent historical landmarks in Sri Lanka is the Galle Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts thousands of visitors every year. The fort is located in the southern coastal city of Galle, which was once a prominent trading center in the Indian Ocean region.
History
The Galle Fort is a fascinating example of a fortified city that was built by European colonial powers during the 16th century. The fort was constructed by the Portuguese in 1588, and it was later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort served as a strategic stronghold for the colonial powers in their efforts to control trade routes in the region.
Today, the Galle Fort is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial past. The fort is surrounded by high walls and gates that were designed to protect the city from invasion. The fort's narrow streets are lined with colonial-era buildings, including churches, government buildings, and private residences.
Attractions
One of the most striking features of the Galle Fort is the Dutch Reformed Church, which was built in 1755. The church is a fine example of Dutch colonial architecture, with its gabled roof and white-washed walls. Visitors can explore the church's interior, which features elaborate wooden carvings and stained glass windows.
Another notable attraction in the Galle Fort is the Maritime Museum, which is housed in a former Dutch warehouse. The museum features exhibits on Sri Lanka's maritime history, including the country's traditional boat-building techniques and the impact of European colonial powers on Sri Lanka's maritime trade.
The Galle Fort also offers visitors the opportunity to explore Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. The fort's narrow streets are lined with artisan shops and boutiques that offer traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts, including wood carvings, jewelry, and textiles. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Sri Lankan cuisine at the fort's many restaurants and cafes.
In recent years, the Galle Fort has become a hub for the arts and cultural events in Sri Lanka. The fort hosts an annual literary festival that attracts renowned writers from around the world. The fort also hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year.
Location
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How to get there by Train?
If you're planning to visit Galle Fort in Sri Lanka, traveling by train is a convenient and affordable option. The fort is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, and it is easily accessible by train from Colombo, the country's capital.
You can catch morning trains (there are 2 trains) from Colombo Fort to Galle which offers you a relaxing journey.
The train which reaches Colombo Fort at 10:30 AM usually gets late and it's crowded. Better avoid it.
The trains depart from Colombo Fort after noon and get crowded by office commuters, not a good option. We don't recommend them. But it's up to you depending on your schedule.
There's a night mail train to Galle which leaves at 7:30 PM.
| Your Station | Arrival Time | Departure Time | Destination / Time | End Station / Time | Frequency | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COLOMBO FORT | 06:30:00 | 06:50:00 | BELIATHTHA 11:21:00 | GALLE 09:19:00 | DAILY | EXPRESS TRAIN | |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at BELIATHTHA at 11:21:00 | Train No: 8050 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 08:35:00 | 08:35:00 | MATARA 12:00:00 | GALLE 10:53:00 | DAILY | EXPRESS TRAIN | |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at MATARA at 12:00:00 | Train No: 8040 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 10:30:00 | 10:30:00 | BELIATHTHA 14:35:00 | GALLE 12:42:00 | DAILY | Rajarata Rejini | EXPRESS TRAIN |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at BELIATHTHA at 14:35:00 | Train No: 8086 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 14:34:00 | 14:40:00 | BELIATHTHA 18:28:00 | GALLE 16:39:00 | DAILY | Galu Kumari | COLOMBO COMMUTER |
| Available Classes: 1st Class , 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at BELIATHTHA at 18:28:00 | Train No: 8056 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 15:44:00 | 15:50:00 | MATARA 18:21:00 | GALLE 17:34:00 | DAILY | RUHUNU KUMARI | EXPRESS TRAIN |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at MATARA at 18:21:00 | Train No: 8058 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 16:44:00 | 16:46:00 | BELIATHTHA 20:11:00 | GALLE 18:46:00 | MONDAY TO FRIDAY | SAGARIKA | LONG DISTANCE |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at BELIATHTHA at 20:11:00 | Train No: 8096 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 17:29:00 | 17:30:00 | GALLE 20:09:00 | GALLE 20:09:00 | NOT ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY | SAMUDRA DEVI | LONG DISTANCE |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at GALLE at 20:09:00 | Train No: 8760 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 17:50:00 | 17:51:00 | GALLE 20:27:00 | GALLE 20:27:00 | NOT ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY | 8764 | COLOMBO COMMUTER |
| Available Classes: 3rd Class | Train ends at GALLE at 20:27:00 | Train No: 8764 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 18:15:00 | 18:17:00 | BELIATHTHA 22:30:00 | GALLE 20:40:00 | NOT ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY | EXPRESS TRAIN | |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at BELIATHTHA at 22:30:00 | Train No: 8766 | |||||
| COLOMBO FORT | 18:50:00 | 19:30:00 | GALLE 22:58:00 | GALLE 22:58:00 | DAILY | Night Mail | Night Mail Train |
| Available Classes: 2nd Class , 3rd Class | Train ends at GALLE at 22:58:00 | Train No: 8775 | |||||
Source: eservices.railway.gov.lk
Nearby Railway Station
SLRF Staff
Places to Stay in Galle Fort
Booking.comOverall, the Galle Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich history and culture. The fort's mix of colonial-era architecture and traditional Sri Lankan culture offers visitors a unique glimpse into the country's past and present. Whether you're exploring the fort's narrow streets or enjoying a traditional Sri Lankan meal, the Galle Fort is an experience that you won't soon forget.
