Experience historic Galle Fort with a 4th generation Galle resident.
The UNESCO Heritage site of Galle Fort is a melting pot of cultures. It is home to the Moor, Sinhalese, Burgher and Tamil communities. Once a busy port serving as a meeting point for traders from different corners of the world, Galle Fort is now one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed attractions.
What better way to explore one of South Asia’s best preserved forts than with a local? A walk around this colonial landmark is the best way to admire her architectural marvels. You’ll wander through bustling cobble-stoned pathways uncovering the hidden stories behind these walls. Your host, Shahira, will take you through bastions, warehouses and public administration buildings. Shahira is a 4th generation resident of Moorish descent, the earliest spice traders to have arrived in the island. Having grown up in Galle, she is a well-known and respected personality in the Muslim community. Shahira enjoys meeting new people through the walk, loves experimenting with food and gardening in her spare time. Through her stories Shahira will transport you to the Portuguese, Dutch and English eras bringing you up to date to the present time with a well earned drink.
