Explore one of the best preserved forts in South Asia

Built by the Portuguese in 1588 and then fortified by the Dutch in the 17th Century, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort is a melting pot of cultures and communities. Home to the Moor (Muslim), Sinhalese, Burgher and Tamil ethnic groups, this architectural and archaeological fortress has a colourful history and is one of the best preserved forts in South Asia.

Once a busy port that served as a meeting point for Greek, Arab and Roman traders, the Galle Fort now attracts people from all corners of the world for its reputation as one of the oldest living forts. Walk through the cobbled streets with one of our two guides, who reveal the history, hidden tales, and daily life behind these walls.

Your host is a resident of Galle and is an expert on the Fort’s incredible history and offers insightful information on the age-old bastions, public administration buildings and other archaeological sites that have given Galle Fort its UNESCO World Heritage status.

This walk is historical, and our resident host intrigues you with fascinating tales of the evolution of these ramparts and the battles that took place during the Portuguese, Dutch and British rule.