The city of Galle in Sri Lanka
plays a major role in Sri Lankan Tourism. The Dutch fort in Galle is arguably
most interested among both Local and Foreign travelers. It was declared as a
UNESCO world heritage site in Sri Lanka. This glorious fort was initially built
by Portuguese in 1588. Remarkably it had been marked in the Ptoloamy’s world map
illustrated around 125-150 A.D. At that time this fort situated in Galle bay,
was a quite busy port. The fort was retained by Dutch in 17th century. It was
visited by Chinese, Greeks, Arabs and Indians for business and commercial
trading purposes. Dutch fort of Galle is also called as ‘Ramparts of Galle’.
The name Galle is generated from the Dutch word ‘Gallus’ by means of chicken.
Other belief is that there was a big stable made for cattle referred as “Gaala”.
The fort is profess to
European architectural grandeur around 19th century. The Portuguese invader
‘Lorenzo de Almeida’ was able to build up a tight friendship with the Sri
Lankan King. However with the arrival of British, the fort was enslaved again.
Today travelling to Galle
is a 45 minute drive from the capital, what we suggest to you, in order to get the best views of
coastal Sri Lanka; rent a car from the many well reputed car renting
companies such as Kings Rent a Car Colombo and drive away as you wish!
Passing Galle you find Hikkaduwa,
one of the largest & most influential tourism sites of Sri Lanka has gained
a tremendous stride with the rise of the tourism sector. Hikkaduwa is more
famous for its Coral sanctuary. This natural, multi colored coral reef has been
well conserved; many species of fish and sea turtles attract many people from
all over the world. After a short distance southwards from this impressive
coral reef is palled. The beach provides best sea waves for surfing during its
dry season. In addition travelers interested in surfing and diving prefers
Hikkaduwa most. More interested tourists can take a PADI course to explore
Hikkaduwa’s Coral reef sanctuary. The area is divided into 4 main breaks. From
north to south is Locals break, Main peak, Hansa surf break and beach break.
Crystal clear water, white sand beach attract many surfers from UK, Japan and
USA. Pubs, restaurants, shops and night clubs can be easily found in Hikkaduwa
area. Though you can enjoy and dance at Dance floors nearby the Beach.
Accommodations can be reserved from guest houses and hotels. Obviously there is
no other tourism place similarly to Hikkaduwa. While walking on the long
stretched sandy shore, you can taste various sea foods. It’s a great
opportunity for sun worshippers and sea worshippers.
