Dutch Reformed Church – This interesting colonial church dates back to 1640, although the present building was constructed in 1755. The floor is paved with gravestones from the Dutch cemetery and yes – human remains are entombed in the walls and floor.

Peace Pagoda – Constructed by a Japanese order of monks, this beautiful Buddhist pagoda is on a headland near Galle. Set amongst lush vegetation, it has a very tranquil atmosphere and magnificent views across to the fort.

National Museum – In a colonial Dutch building near the main gate of the fort, this museum has a collection of traditional masks, colonial weaponry and folk arts.

Maritime Museum – Housed in a former Dutch storehouse, the rarely-visited Maritime Museum has a series of exhibits on the flora and fauna of the sea, as well as models boats and examples of traditional fishing practices.

Walking the Fort Walls – A sunset stroll on the top of the Fort’s walls is a highlight of any visit to Galle. The views are truly magnificent, and the walls are alive with local people enjoying the cool evening air. It takes an hour or two to make a complete circuit of the town as you pass grand gates, bastions, old inscriptions and the 18m-high lighthouse.

Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery – This non-profit organisation has its headquarters a short drive from Galle, and is dedicated to hatching sea turtles before releasing them into the ocean. To date they have introduced over half a million turtles into the wild. The centre is open to the public daily.