Embracing the Rain: A Culinary Journey in Galle

Galle, a city rich in history and culture, offers a unique opportunity to dive into the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine, even on a rainy weekend. The overcast skies and the rhythmic patter of rain create the perfect backdrop for an immersive culinary experience with Wasantha’s Cooking Class. Available from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on both November 9th and 10th, this activity is a delightful way to spend a morning.

Begin your day with a warm cup of ginger tea as you meet Wasantha, your guide and culinary expert. The journey starts with a tuk-tuk ride to the bustling Dutch market, where you’ll learn about the health benefits of local vegetables and how to select the freshest produce. The market tour is not just about shopping; it’s a cultural exploration, offering insights into the daily lives of the locals.

Back in the kitchen, Wasantha’s expertise shines as she guides you through the preparation of five traditional Sri Lankan curries. From making your own coconut milk to perfecting the art of using spices, this hands-on class is both educational and enjoyable. As you savor the fruits of your labor, you’ll also learn the traditional way of eating with your fingers, making this a truly authentic experience.

“Cook an authentic curry to learn about Sri Lankan culture - First, you go to the market for choosing yourself the vegetables you want to cook. It’s also the occasion to improve your knowledge about ayurvedic benefits of all the vegetables. Then, you come back at the house to cook. Wasantha is a really good teacher. She takes time to explain how to cut the vegetables, why this spice has to be put in the meal now and not before/after. It’s not a show, you cook with her. For us it was more than a cooking course. We shared time, we shared food and we shared her story. I recommend! 😃😃😃” - Reviewed on 2024-09-01

Discovering Galle’s Heritage: A Day of Exploration

For those who wish to explore beyond the kitchen, the Galle Day Trip offers a comprehensive tour of the city’s historical and cultural landmarks. Available from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both days, this excursion is perfect for those looking to delve into the rich tapestry of Galle’s past.

The day begins with a Bentota River Safari, where you’ll glide through mangroves and spot wildlife such as crocodiles and water monitors. This serene boat ride is a refreshing start to the day, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of the region. Following the safari, the tour takes you to a series of fascinating stops, including a gem museum, a turtle conservation project, and a wood carving center.

One of the highlights of the trip is a visit to the Tsunami Photo Museum, a poignant reminder of the region’s resilience in the face of natural disasters. The museum, housed in a home damaged by the tsunami, offers a deeply human experience, with stories of survival and hope.

“Great value tour! - We had a jam-packed day on this trip- we had a wonderful time seeing and experiencing plenty without feeling rushed. It was great value for money! Dinesh picked us up on time and got us from place to place safely. We saw crocodiles, monkeys, monitors, frogs, and plenty of birds on our boat safari and our guide was friendly with a great eye for wildlife. Best part was enjoying fresh coconut water in the mangroves with the crocs. We then visited a beautiful temple and had a tour, a mask factory, and a turtle conservation center. The gentleman working at the center was so kind and radiated wonderful energy and I could tell he really cared about the animals. The tsunami museum was a really harrowing experience- held in a home damaged by the tsunami we were shown around by an amazing lady who survived the disaster. I won’t say too much but it’s a very human experience and she has a real and deep story to tell and an important message. Lunch was a buffet and was delicious and the restaurant was clean with friendly staff. We were given an hour and a half to explore Galle and this was enough time to do a loop of the fort and then last visited the stilt fisherman. Overall a great day- Recommend bringing enough money to souvenir shop and small notes to give donations to the various stops. They don’t ask for much and it definitely all helps. Thank you BTM!” - Reviewed on 2024-09-08

A Mindful Retreat: Embracing Galle’s Culture

As the rain continues to fall, Galle’s charm is undiminished. The city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant local life offer a unique retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re cooking with Wasantha or exploring the city’s historical sites, Galle provides a mindful escape that nourishes both the body and soul.

The rainy weather adds a layer of intimacy to your experiences, encouraging you to slow down and savor each moment. As you wander through the Dutch Fort or enjoy a quiet moment in a local temple, you’ll find that Galle’s beauty lies not just in its sights, but in its stories and traditions.

This weekend, let the rain be your guide as you explore the indoor adventures and cultural experiences that make Galle a truly special destination. Embrace the opportunity to connect with the local culture, and you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.