A somnolent old town on the south-west coast of the magical Isle. Formerly the capital with a natural harbor during the time of the Portuguese before the British changed the Capital to be Colombo. Apart from the dazzling beaches at Unawatuna Bay, Kaluwella (black sand shore), etc. it is full of attractions including the Madhu River for boat excursions & turtle farms. The Galle Dutch Fort ( A UNESCO World Heritage Site ), a lively old township, is one of numerous attractions to visit. Originally built by the Portuguese, it was renovated by the Dutch & restored by the British replete with green ramparts, stone bunkers & Stone Park benches. A stroll down the stone paved roads springs one the feeling of being in Rome, the architecture of the old buildings of this Fort are predominantly European. The old fashioned courtyards & sidewalks of the built up area of the little town offer the eyes, the comfort of ‘space’ to enjoy what one looks at & ‘see’ it. Stone parapet walls serve to classify the distinct areas of the ramparts, so are the massive walls on the perimeter of the fort, built high enough to protect its ‘residents’ from any attacks by adversaries. There are dungeons built in the basements to contain trespassers or prisoners. On the green ramparts there are canons placed at strategic locations. From the eastern rampart, one can see the picturesque Galle International Cricket Stadium. Unawatuna bay is a wonderful beach like a swimming pool about 9 km from the town. Great place for snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, windsurfing, sun bathing, sun tanning & other activities of a great beach. Kaluwella is a deserted tranquil beach with black sand 4 km from town.