Explore Galle & South Coast

Few places combine historical sights, excellent shopping and dining, charming boutique hotels and beautiful beaches quite as perfectly as Galle. This fortified coastal city, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, exudes a delightful blend of Asian and European influences. Foodies will love sampling Galle’s contemporary cafes and fine dining restaurants, with seafood and spice specialties, as well as private cookery courses to recreate the dishes back home. Galle is the gateway to many coastal villages and eco-friendly beach resorts along the South Coast with varied attractions to suit nature lovers, spiritual tourists and water sports enthusiasts.

Highlights

Walk the stone battlements of the Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Stroll the laidback streets of Galle old town for stylish shopping and leisurely dining
Relax on stunning beaches near Galle or in Tangalle, a breeding ground for turtles
Witness magnificent blue and sperm whales close to the coast near Mirissa
Learn to surf in the horseshoe bay of Welligama, or the hidden gem, Hiriketiya Bay
Cruise through the rainforest waterways spotting monitor lizards and exotic birds

Iconic Activities

Boat Trip
Whale Watching
Water Sports
Food Experiences
City Sights
Natural Wonders
Wellness/Spa
Cultural Experiences

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Galle & South Coast Map

Enriching encounters

ICONIC WILDLIFE

Leatherback Turtle
Humpback Whale
Hawksbill Turtle
Bottlenose Dolphin
Spinner Dolphin
Blue Whale
Bryde's Whale
Green Turtle
Sperm Whale

Sample Itineraries

TRIPS TO INSPIRE

Wondrous and warm-hearted, Sri Lanka enriches and transforms all who visit. From honeymoons to family adventures, safari and solo trips, experience the joy with this inspiring selection of our favourite itineraries.

Bespoke itineraries

Flights and transfers included

Best rates guaranteed

All Itineraries

Month-by-month guide

When to visit

Best
Good
Mixed

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Waiting to welcome you

Luxury Accommodation

From boutique hotels to eco-friendly retreats, our selected properties are hand-picked by our experts and endorsed by our clients. Often intimate, always exceptional, we'll choose the perfect lodges, hotels and villas to suit your personal style and interests.

Start your unique journey

HOW TO BOOK

At Mahlatini, we like to make things easy for you. Browse our website for inspiration or pick up the phone. Whether you’re full of ideas or unsure of where to start, we’re here to help. Serial safari-goer or first-time visitor, we’re ready to create your ultimate tailormade itinerary.