Amangalla

Galle


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 passengers travelling to and from Europe in the 19th century. During much of the 20th century, it was in a decades-long slow decline and was run by the legendary Nesta Brohier, a grand lady who was actually born in room 25.

The hotel has a memorable and comic role in Paul Theroux's iconic The Great Railway Bazaar. It was completely restored and reopened as the luxurious Amangalla in 2004. Public areas such as the bar, lobby and restaurants are open and worth a look.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Galle attractions

1. 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…

2. 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…

3. Bell Tower

0.05 MILES

A small whitewashed bell tower supported by four slim pillars.

4. 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…

5. 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.

6. 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…

7. 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…

8. Old Gate

0.1 MILES

A beautifully carved British coat of arms tops the entrance to the Old Gate on the outer side. Inside, the letters VOC, standing for Verenigde…

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