Galle The South, Sri Lanka Travel Guide
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the main international airport, located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Colombo. Almost all international flights use this airport.
Flight prices generally peak during Sri Lanka's high tourist season (December to March) and around major holidays (Christmas, New Year, Sinhala & Tamil New Year in April).
CMB has duty-free shops, currency exchange, ATMs, SIM card counters, food, lounges, and other services.
Most convenient, fastest. Pre-book or hire at airport. Approx. 2.5-3 hrs via Southern Expressway. LKR 15,000-25,000.
Scenic choice. Taxi/tuk-tuk to Colombo Fort Railway Station. 2.5-3.5 hrs to Galle.
No specific departure taxes at airport. Fees typically included in airfare when ticket purchased.
For international flights from CMB, arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled flight for check-in, security, immigration.
Galle Railway/Bus Station: Basic facilities (small shops, food stalls). Arrive 30-60 min before departure.
Train journey from Colombo Fort to Galle: A popular and scenic coastal route. Offers views of palm-fringed beaches and local life.
Sri Lanka has an extensive public bus network connecting Galle to most major towns and cities.
To drive legally in Sri Lanka, an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home country's driving license is needed. Your IDP must be endorsed by the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) in Colombo.
The Southern Expressway (E01) from Colombo to Galle is modern, well-maintained. Coastal roads, notably the A2, are generally in good condition but can experience congestion.
To rent and drive a car in Sri Lanka, an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home country's driving license is needed. Your IDP endorsement from AAC in Colombo is a legal requirement.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are common in Galle and nearby beach towns like Unawatuna. An IDP endorsed for motorcycles is a legal requirement.
No formal bicycle sharing programs. Bicycles can be rented from guesthouses and small shops within Galle Fort or near beaches.
Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cycling inside Fort relatively safe due to low speeds. Main roads outside Fort hazardous.
Tuk-tuks are quintessential local transport. Cannot rent to drive yourself legally, but easily hire for full-day excursions with a driver.
Galle Fort's compact size and pedestrian-friendly design make walking and cycling appealing ways to explore its charming streets and ramparts.
You can easily explore Galle Fort on your own with a simple map. Many guesthouses provide basic maps, or use a digital map on your phone.
No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists in Galle. Always exercise caution on busy main roads.
Maintain situational awareness, especially at night or during heavy rain when visibility reduces and traffic unpredictable.
Choose quieter routes when possible to enhance your safety. Cycling inside the Fort is safe due to low vehicle speeds.
Galle Fort's cobblestone streets and narrow lanes are ideal for walking tours, day and night. The ramparts offer continuous walking paths with sweeping scenic views of the Indian Ocean, the iconic lighthouse, and the city’s historic interior. This walk is especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
