Amangalla

Galle


One of the Fort's most famous buildings, this Aman hotel boasts lashings of colonial opulence. Its reception rooms (all polished teak floors and period furnishings) are quite something: witness spiffily dressed staff waltzing around bearing gifts (cocktails) to guests. There are several categories of rooms – all luxurious and immaculately presented, and with four-poster beds – though the least expensive are smallish.

In its previous incarnation as the New Oriental Hotel, the building housed generations of travellers. You can recall those days – and the Dutch family who ran the place – in the beautiful library, which, like the gorgeous pool, offers a reason to leave your room.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Galle attractions

1. Amangalla

The Amangalla was built in 1684 to house the Dutch governor and officers. Later, as the New Oriental Hotel, it was the lodging of choice for 1st-class P&O…

2. Dutch Reformed Church

0.02 MILES

Originally built in 1640, the present building dates from 1752. Its floor is paved with gravestones from Dutch cemeteries, while other impressive features…

3. National Museum

0.03 MILES

This museum is housed in what's thought to be the oldest Dutch building in Galle, dating back to 1686. Displays are somewhat dusty and dated but include…

4. Bell Tower

0.05 MILES

A small whitewashed bell tower supported by four slim pillars.

5. Marine Archeological Museum

0.06 MILES

This spacious maritime museum occupies a colossal old spice warehouse built by the Dutch and dating back to the late 17th century. The structure was…

6. Dutch Governor's House

0.07 MILES

A striking building that dates from 1683, over its doorway is a cockerel and the crest of Galle. It's not open to the public.

7. All Saints Anglican Church

0.08 MILES

A handsome Victorian Gothic structure dating from the mid-19th century. It boasts impressive stained-glass windows, beautifully carved timber arches and…

8. National Maritime Museum

0.09 MILES

Nestled in the old walls, this small museum is worth a quick look for its skeleton of a Bryde's whale and a very useful model that explains how tsunamis…