Discover the Rich Heritage at the National Museum Galle
Explore Sri Lanka's vibrant past at the National Museum Galle, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and artifacts.
The National Museum Galle is a treasure trove of Sri Lanka's history and culture, perfect for tourists seeking to delve into the island's rich past. Located in the historic city of Galle, this museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, textiles, and art that reflect the diverse heritage of the region. Visitors can explore various exhibits that narrate the story of Galle from ancient times to the colonial period, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
A brief summary to National Museum Galle
- 26H8+HQ6, Church St, Galle, 80000, LK
- +94912232051
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Don't miss the guided tours offered at specific times for deeper insights into the exhibits.
- Check the museum's website for any temporary exhibitions or events happening during your visit.
- Photography may be restricted in some areas, so check the signs before taking pictures.
- Allow at least two hours to explore the museum thoroughly and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
Getting There
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Tuk-Tuk
From any point in Bentota, find a nearby tuk-tuk stand or flag down a tuk-tuk on the street. Tell the driver that you want to go to the National Museum in Galle, located at Church Street. The ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to specify the exact address: 26H8+HQ6, Church St, Galle 80000. The driver will navigate you through the coastal road (Galle Road) towards Galle.
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Bus
Head to the Bentota Bus Station, which is located near the main road. Look for buses heading to Galle; they are frequent and should be marked clearly. Once on the bus, inform the conductor that you want to get off at Galle. The journey will take about 45 minutes to 1 hour. When you arrive in Galle, get off at the main bus terminal, and from there, you can either take a short tuk-tuk ride or walk to the museum, which is roughly a 10-minute walk. Head towards Church Street, and you will find the museum at 26H8+HQ6.
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Walking
If you are located in Bentota and prefer to walk, head towards the Bentota beach area and keep following the coastal road (Galle Road) towards Galle. This is a long walk of approximately 30 kilometers, and it is recommended for experienced walkers. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and local scenery. Once you reach Galle, navigate towards Church Street where the museum is located at 26H8+HQ6.
Discover more about National Museum Galle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Galle Fort - Fishmark Bastion
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Explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring colonial architecture, stunning ocean views, and rich cultural experiences.
The Entrance Galle Fort
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Experience the charm of Galle at The Entrance Galle Fort, where history meets modern comfort just steps from the iconic Galle Fort.
Rajgama Wella
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Rajgama Wella, a picturesque beach in Galle, Sri Lanka, perfect for relaxation and fresh seafood indulgence.
Portuguese Structural Remains ( පෘතුගීසි ගොඩනැගිලි නෂ්ඨාවශේෂ )
0.1 km
Uncover the history of Sri Lanka at the stunning Portuguese Structural Remains in Galle, a captivating glimpse into the colonial era.
Sentry Point (රැකවල් ස්ථානය)
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Explore Sentry Point in Galle, a historical landmark that offers breathtaking ocean views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich maritime heritage.
New Old Dutch House Galle Fort
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Discover the allure of Galle Fort at New Old Dutch House, a charming hotel blending history with modern comforts amidst panoramic coastal views.
Historical Mansion Museum
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Explore Galle's rich history at the Historical Mansion Museum, showcasing captivating artifacts and beautiful architecture in a serene setting.
Urban Island - Galle Fort
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Explore Urban Island in Galle Fort for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
ආකර්ස්ලූට් බැස්ටියන Galle Fort - Akersloot Bastion
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Explore the historic Galle Fort - Akersloot Bastion, a captivating landmark with stunning ocean views and rich colonial heritage in Sri Lanka.
Old Slave Quarters
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Explore the Old Slave Quarters in Galle, a poignant historical landmark revealing the complex narratives of Sri Lanka's colonial past.
Star Bastion
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Explore the historic Star Bastion in Galle, a stunning landmark showcasing colonial architecture and breathtaking ocean views.
Clippenberg Bastion
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Discover the historical allure of Clippenberg Bastion in Galle, where colonial heritage meets breathtaking ocean views.
Sunset Observing Place
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Galle's sunsets at the Sunset Observing Place, a serene escape for photographers and nature lovers.
Galle Sea View
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Discover Galle Sea View, a breathtaking coastal attraction in Sri Lanka, perfect for stunning ocean vistas and unforgettable memories.
Sithuvili Gallery
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Explore the vibrant artistic culture at Sithuvili Gallery, a must-visit art gallery and craft store in Galle, Sri Lanka.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Harbor Temple
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Explore the serene beauty and rich heritage of Fort Harbor Temple, a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary in Galle, Sri Lanka.
Dutch Reformed Church
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Experience the charm of the Dutch Reformed Church, a historic site in Galle, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
St Joseph's Chapel
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Discover the serene beauty of St Joseph's Chapel in Galle, a stunning Catholic church offering tranquility and spiritual reflection for all visitors.
Oldest Cafe in Galle Fort
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Experience the essence of Galle at its oldest café, where authentic flavors meet rich history in a cozy setting.
Christian Reformed Church
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Discover the rich cultural heritage of Galle at the Christian Reformed Church Museum, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits.
Beach Park - Galle Municipal Council
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Discover the serene beauty of Beach Park in Galle, a perfect blend of nature, culture, and coastal relaxation for every traveler.
Dutch Belfry
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Explore the Dutch Belfry in Galle, a historical landmark showcasing colonial architecture and offering breathtaking coastal views.
British Queen's House
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Explore the historic British Queen's House in Galle, a stunning colonial landmark with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Maritime Museum
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Explore the Galle Maritime Museum, a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka's seafaring past and rich maritime heritage.
All Saints' Church, Galle - Church of Ceylon
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Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of All Saints' Church in Galle, a must-see tourist attraction steeped in Sri Lanka's rich colonial past.
YMBA Building
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Explore the vibrant culture of Matara at the YMBA Building, a hub of artistic expression and local traditions that will enrich your travel experience.
Galle Unesco Signage
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Uncover the rich history of Galle at the UNESCO Signage, a key attraction that highlights the city's colonial past and cultural significance.
Southland college Buddhist temple
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Experience tranquility and spiritual enlightenment at Southland College Buddhist Temple in Galle, a serene retreat showcasing the beauty of Buddhism.
Fort Entrance (Slvar Gate)
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Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of the Fort Entrance (Slvar Gate) in this captivating tourist attraction.
Fort Entrance (Old Gate)
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Explore the Fort Entrance: A historical gateway to Matara's rich cultural heritage and breathtaking architecture.
Essential places to dine
Anura’s Restaurant & Lodging
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and cozy lodging at Anura’s Restaurant & Lodging in historic Galle.
Elita Restaurant
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Discover the best seafood dining experience in Galle at Elita Restaurant—where freshness meets flavor in every dish.
The Fortyard Café and Restaurant
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Experience exquisite dining at The Fortyard Café in Galle – where local flavors meet fine dining in a charming atmosphere.
Galle Fort Restaurant
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Experience exquisite Chinese flavors intertwined with local Sri Lankan influences at Galle Fort Restaurant.
Galu Bojuna
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Discover authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Galu Bojuna in Galle - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Arch Restaurant - Galle Fort
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Experience exquisite seafood dining in the heart of Galle Fort with stunning views at The Arch Restaurant.
Imals Restaurant
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Imals Restaurant in Galle - a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
The Bungalow Galle Fort - Restaurant & Bar.
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Experience exquisite dining at The Bungalow Galle Fort - where local flavors meet vibrant cocktails in a historic setting.
The Pasta Factory
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Discover the flavors of Italy at The Pasta Factory in Galle - where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence.
Church Street Social
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Discover vibrant flavors at Church Street Social, Galle's top spot for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and lively bar atmosphere.
Lucky Fort Restaurant And Cooking Class And Boat Rides
0.3 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Lucky Fort Restaurant, where delicious meals meet engaging cooking classes and scenic boat rides.
Chambers
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Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Chambers in Galle – a culinary journey awaits every visitor.
1710
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Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at 1710 in Galle - where culinary tradition meets modern taste.
Pedlar's Inn Cafe and Restaurant
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Discover exquisite seafood dining at Pedlar's Inn Cafe in Galle – where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
The Heritage Cafe & Bistro
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Discover culinary delights at The Heritage Cafe & Bistro in Galle - where art meets flavor amidst historic charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chilli Dragon Spice Shop
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Discover the vibrant world of spices at Chilli Dragon Spice Shop, Galle's premier destination for high-quality spices, teas, and unique gift baskets.
Araliya Collection
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EXOTIC ROOTS Concept Store
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Fort Art Jewels
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Dutch Gallery
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Waves Store Galle
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PR Concept Store - Galle Fort
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KK Boutique
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Barefoot
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Shoba Boutique
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Explore Shoba Boutique in Galle for exquisite handicrafts and clothing that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Made In Ceylon
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WARM BOUTIQUE
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Experience the unique craftsmanship and vibrant culture at Warm Boutique, Galle's top destination for authentic Sri Lankan fashion and souvenirs.
tpv store
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Old Dutch Hospital
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Discover the historic Old Dutch Hospital in Galle, a lively shopping mall blending rich heritage with modern amenities, perfect for every traveler.
Merakii Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ropewalk
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Ropewalk | Galle Fort Hotel
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ropewalk at Galle Fort Hotel, where history meets relaxation with exquisite drinks and stunning views.
Moi Shaka Boom by DBI
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Discover the lively atmosphere of Moi Shaka Boom, a premier pub in Galle, offering a delightful selection of drinks in a historic setting.
TAP HOUSE BY TRIO
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Tap House by Trio, a charming bar located in the historic Old Dutch Hospital of Galle.
Biker's Cafe
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu at Biker's Cafe in Galle, a must-visit destination for food and bike enthusiasts.
Charlie's Bar & Bistro
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Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Charlie's Bar & Bistro in Galle, a culinary treasure for food enthusiasts.
Sydney Hotel - Galle
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sydney Hotel in Galle, where exquisite drinks and a welcoming ambiance await every visitor.
Cigar Bar Le Grand Galle
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Discover the refined elegance of Cigar Bar Le Grand Galle, where luxury meets relaxation in a stunning hilltop setting.
Highland city milk bar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious beverages at Highland City Milk Bar, Galle's favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
Aa
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Experience the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Aa Bar in Galle, where cultures blend and unforgettable memories are made.
Sandbar & Grill
2.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Sandbar & Grill in Galle, where stunning coastal views meet delicious food.
Love Bar Galle
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Savor the flavors of Sri Lanka at Love Bar Galle, where culinary creativity meets local tradition in a vibrant setting.
Jungle Fruit Shop & Juice Bar Restaurant
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Discover a tropical oasis at Jungle Fruit Shop & Juice Bar in Unawatuna, where fresh juices and vibrant flavors meet serene island vibes.
Juice Bar
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Discover the refreshing taste of health at Unawatuna's Juice Bar, a tropical oasis offering delicious smoothies and fresh juices amidst stunning landscapes.
Saman Hotel
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Saman Hotel, a cozy pub in Galle, perfect for enjoying local drinks and relaxing after your adventures.
