Explore Galle's hidden gems & Dine with Locals
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This experience blends culture, nature, food, and local life into one unforgettable journey. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, this itinerary invites you into the heart of Sri Lankan tradition—where you’ll meet local artisans, witness age-old crafts, taste an authentic home-cooked meal, and explore historic Galle Fort with a guide who knows its hidden stories. From the tranquil Cinnamon Island Safari to hands-on visits at the Turtle Hatchery, Tea Plantation, Gem and Handloom workshops, every stop offers a genuine connection to the island’s heritage. Perfectly paced and rich in authenticity, this tour gives you a deeper, more personal look at Sri Lanka—far beyond what typical tourist routes offer.
Available options
Explore Galle's hidden gems & Dine with Locals
Pickup included
What's included
All Fees to these sites are included in the final price
Free Sri Lankan Meal
Free Water bottles and King coconut drinks
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, exploring colonial architecture, charming streets, and panoramic ocean views with an expert local guide.
2
Cinnamon Island Safari - Enjoy a serene boat ride to a cinnamon-growing island where you’ll witness traditional peeling techniques and discover the fragrant secrets behind Ceylon cinnamon.
3
Turtle Hatchery - Visit a coastal conservation center dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. Learn about their life cycle, see rescued turtles up close, and support vital preservation efforts.
4
Gem Experience - Explore Sri Lanka’s gemstone heritage with a guided visit to a gem museum and workshop. Watch skilled craftsmen at work and learn how raw stones transform into sparkling treasures.
5
Handloom Factory - Visit a traditional handloom workshop to see artisans weaving vibrant textiles by hand. Discover age-old techniques and browse beautifully crafted fabrics.
6
Tea Plantation - Wander through lush highland tea fields and tour a working factory. Learn the art of tea plucking, taste premium Ceylon teas, and discover the history behind the world-famous brew.
7
Home-Cooked Meal - Savor an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience in a local home. Enjoy flavorful family recipes, traditional spices, and warm hospitality.
What's not included
Gratuities
Cost of personal nature
No hidden costs: Everything listed is included.Only optional personal purchases require cash or card
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Galle
Galle is a historic coastal city known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture and UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. With its charming streets, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches, it offers a unique blend of history, nature, and relaxation. The city's rich heritage and tropical charm make it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.
Top Attractions
Galle Fort
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort is a historic fortified city built by the Dutch in the 17th century. It's known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, ramparts, and charming streets.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to enter the fort, some attractions may have entry fees
Unawatuna Beach
A popular beach known for its golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Jungle Beach
A secluded and peaceful beach surrounded by lush greenery. It's perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more serene beach experience.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Meeru Gallery
A renowned art gallery showcasing a wide range of contemporary Sri Lankan art. It's a great place to appreciate local talent and perhaps purchase a unique piece of art.
Art
1-2 hours
Free to enter, artwork for sale
Galle International Cricket Stadium
A famous cricket stadium that hosts international and domestic matches. It's a great place to catch a game and experience the excitement of Sri Lankan cricket.
Sports
Half day to full day
Ticket prices vary depending on the match
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A staple Sri Lankan dish consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetables, meat, or seafood.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (can be made vegan)
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried on a hot plate.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry)
A sour fish curry made with goraka (a sour fruit), spices, and fish, typically served with rice.
Lunch/Dinner
Non-vegetarian
Popular Activities
Surfing
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Exploring Galle Fort
Visiting temples and churches
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the best time to visit Galle as the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for exploring the historic sites and enjoying the beaches. It's also the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken elsewhere
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Galle is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services or apps like PickMe
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 110 km from Galle
- Bandaranayake International Airport • 120 km from Galle
By train
Galle Railway Station
By bus
Galle Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Galle. They are frequent and cover most parts of the city and nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fort Area
Unawatuna
Hikkaduwa
Ahungalla
Day trips
Hikkaduwa
20 km from Galle • Half day to full day
Hikkaduwa is a popular beach destination known for its surfing spots, coral reefs, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to relax, enjoy water sports, and explore the local culture.
Koggala Lake
25 km from Galle • Half day to full day
Koggala Lake is a scenic freshwater lake known for its beautiful surroundings and various water activities. It's a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and take a boat tour.
Turtle Hatchery (Habaraduwa)
10 km from Galle • Half day
A turtle hatchery dedicated to the conservation and protection of sea turtles. It's a great place to learn about these fascinating creatures and support their conservation efforts.
Festivals
Galle Literary Festival • January (dates vary)
Esala Perahera • July or August (dates vary based on the lunar calendar)
Sinhala and Tamil New Year • April (dates vary based on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Explore the Fort Area on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets.
- Visit the Galle Fort at sunrise or sunset for a more peaceful and scenic experience.
- Try local street food, such as kottu roti and isles, for an authentic culinary experience.
- Use apps like PickMe for reliable and affordable taxi services.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil to enhance your interactions with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
