What are the must-visit spots in Galle Fort Old City, Sri Lanka?

Hello! Speaking of Galle Fort, it's truly a treasure trove of a place. It's not big, but every step offers a scenic view. Let me break down the must-visit spots for you, guaranteeing a worthwhile trip.

1. Walk along the Galle Fort Wall

This is absolutely paramount! Galle Fort is a seaside fortress with a complete circuit of walls. You must spend an hour or two walking the entire perimeter. On one side, you'll see the Indian Ocean waves crashing against the rocks, and on the other, the exotic red-tiled roofs of the old town. It's an amazing feeling.

• Best Time: After 4 PM. The sun isn't as harsh then, and the sea breeze is wonderfully refreshing. Most importantly, you can walk to Flag Rock at the southwestern corner of the fort wall to watch the sunset – it's the best sunset viewing spot in the entire old town. You might also see local guys diving from the wall; although it's a bit of a performance, it's still a unique sight.

2. Check out the iconic Galle Lighthouse

As you walk along the fort wall, you'll definitely pass by the pure white lighthouse. It's absolutely Galle's "cover photo," and almost everyone who comes here takes a picture with it. Blue sky, white lighthouse, green coconut trees – any shot you take will be postcard-perfect.

3. Explore the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Don't be put off by the name; it's no longer a hospital. It has been transformed into a wonderfully atmospheric area filled with boutiques, cafes, and upscale restaurants. If you get tired of walking, come here to sit down, find a spot by the sea, order a drink, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the distant cargo ships – it's incredibly relaxing. It's also a great place for a meal, with a superb ambiance.

4. Wander through the old town's alleyways

The essence of Galle Fort truly lies in its crisscrossing alleyways. There are no skyscrapers here, only European-style buildings left from the Dutch colonial period two or three hundred years ago. You'll inadvertently spot bougainvillea climbing up walls, a quaint jewelry shop around a corner, or a cat dozing by a doorway. Here are a few must-visit streets:

• Pedlar Street: This street is home to many handicraft shops, cafes, and guesthouses, making it one of the liveliest streets in the old town.
• Church Street: As the name suggests, the Dutch Reformed Church is on this street. You can go inside and see the old tombstones beneath the floor, which is quite unique.

5. Look for the "Stilt Fishermen"

Strictly speaking, this isn't inside the old town, but rather on the way to Galle or on nearby beaches. You've surely seen it in many photos: fishermen sitting on wooden poles stuck in the sea, fishing.

• Special Note: This has largely become a "performance" purely for tourists. You'll need to pay a tip for photos, and the price isn't cheap. It's best to agree on a price with them beforehand to avoid any unpleasantness. Although commercialized, as an iconic image of Sri Lanka, it's still worth seeing.

Here are my little tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes! Because the most beautiful sights are found by walking.
• Don't rush. Galle Fort is meant for "wasting" time – find a cafe to relax in, or sit on the fort wall and gaze at the sea. That's the right way to experience it.
• Apply sunscreen. The sun by the sea can be quite strong.

In summary, Galle Fort isn't large, but it's full of charm. It's like a time capsule, perfectly blending history, the ocean, and a leisurely lifestyle. I hope you have a wonderful time there!