Experiences

This bar-hopping adventure in Galle offers an immersive blend of history, culture, and vibrant nightlife. Begin at the iconic Galle Cricket Club before exploring the city’s narrow, atmospheric streets with a knowledgeable host. You’ll visit hidden, century-old bars, rich in stories of local legends and colorful characters, while enjoying a drink in these timeworn establishments. Along the way, take in stunning views of the coastline and the Indian Ocean from scenic vantage points, adding a picturesque touch to your night. Your host will share captivating tales about Galle’s past, making the experience not just a bar crawl but a cultural journey that showcases the city’s laid-back yet lively charm, creating unforgettable memories.

Immerse yourself in Galle’s serene side with a tranquil walk through lush plantations of cinnamon, palm, coconut, rubber, and tea. Guided by a knowledgeable host, you’ll explore the estates and learn about the Tamil community’s traditional way of life, which has remained largely unchanged since their arrival as estate workers. Discover the unique cultural practices and daily routines of this community, many of whom rarely leave the estates. At a picturesque rest point, savor traditional Sri Lankan snacks while your host explains the nutritious ingredients behind these local treats. This nature walk through Galle’s scenic plantations offers a refreshing and culturally enriching experience, perfect for unwinding after a coastal break.

Immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience by witnessing the traditional art of hand-rolling cinnamon sticks and enjoying a cup of aromatic cinnamon tea. The tea, with its rich, spicy aroma and subtle sweetness, offers a comforting warmth that soothes the senses. Next, experience the fascinating process of Toddy tapping. Watch as a skilled tapper expertly climbs the Kithul tree (Jaggery Palm) to collect toddy, a traditional dark, slightly sweetened drink with a rich, molasses-like flavor and gentle fermented tang. The contrast between the soothing cinnamon tea and the bold, complex flavors of toddy creates a unique and enriching taste journey. This experience combines warmth and depth, perfect for cozy evenings or reflective moments.

Discover the wider Galle landscape and community on this voyage of discovery in Sri Lanka’s southern countryside. Begin by sailing through soul-soothing scenery, looking out for exotic birds and reptiles. Your host will give you insight into the lush rubber and cinnamon plantations that line the banks. Follow your boat journey with a 9km bike ride beside hamlets and paddy fields to a traditional mut hut for a revitalising combination of herbal tea and hoppers, cooked the authentic way over the fire. You have the option to make this a full lunch.

Take to the skies and leave the ocean undisturbed on this aerial whale watching experience. Sri Lanka’s southern seas are teeming with sperm whales and blue whales, and there is an excellent chance of sightings between December and March. Your 3-seater Cessna plane departs from Koggala Lake close to Galle and has you hovering over the ocean in minutes, saving you the time and hassle of sailing out to sea. Viewing whales from the air is a unique and exclusive perspective that allows you to see them in all their glory. The full trip takes around 60 minutes.

Travellers who are interested in learning about the complexities of artisanal production and cinnamon farming should not miss this interactive experience. The tour takes visitors through the entire process, from cultivating cinnamon to making artisan cinnamon oil, and is perfect for families, small groups of friends, and couples. Walks begin at the Cinnamon Hut and continue to the Oil Shed, then take a short cart ride to the plantation home. In this location, visitors enjoy refreshments while taking in breath-inspiring views of the verdant jungle and Weligama Bay. To enhance the total immersion into the local culture and flavours, the proprietors can arrange a special lunch with home-cooked foods drawn from the farm for those who want an even more intimate experience.

Explore the world of elephants in Sri Lanka through this mask painting experience. Led by a skilled local artist, this session reveals the wonders of these majestic creatures while giving children the opportunity to reveal their creativity in turn. A joyful journey of art and culture in a historic setting, this is bound to be a holiday highlight for your family.

Spend an evening exploring the historic Galle city by tuk tuk with a resident host. Understand the colonial influences that have shaped modern life, and stop off at the most iconic parts of this UNESCO-recognised city. Begin at the ramparts which protected this once-coveted port before moving on to the Galle Services Club for an exclusive tour. Follow up with a visit to the international Galle cricket stadium which is famous for its ocean backdrop and learn how integral cricket is in Sri Lankan culture. End with a sunset trip to the fish market to view the afternoon catch and a visit to the colourful vegetable and spice market that resides in a Dutch-eta building.

Compared to the food of India and other Asian countries, Sri Lankan cuisine is relatively unknown. The name of its traditional dish – rice and curry – might be underwhelming but believe us when we say the meal is not! Go from the market to the table, learning the ingredients and techniques behind Sri Lankan flavours along the way. Get stuck in including extracting milk from a fresh coconut. In moments where the curries are cooking, relax and enjoy the beauty of the Galle countryside from your comfortable mud-hut kitchen. Finish by enjoying the fruits of your labour the traditional way – on a banana leaf with your hand!