Sri Lanka | Day 1: Colombo to Galle

1. Route: Counterclockwise loop Transport: Private car for the entire trip After landing on a midnight flight the night before, today was always going to be a laid-back affair—no rush, just easy exploration. Sometimes, slow travel is the best way to ease into a new country, and this first day set the perfect tone. 🗺️🚗😴 2. Colombo’s Coastal Train: A “Spirited Away” Moment First stop: the coastal train, often called the “Spirited Away train” for its resemblance to the iconic anime scene. The best stretch? The 20-minute ride from Kollupitiya to Mount Lavinia, where the tracks hug the ocean—waves crash just meters from the windows, and salt breeze floods the carriage. Tickets cost a mere 40 LKR (less than 2 CNY), and since they’re collected at the exit, snap a photo of yours beforehand as a keepsake. Our driver waited for us at Mount Lavinia Station, ready to hit the road to Galle. 🚂🌊🎟️ 3. AIDA Gem Store: A Curious Detour Our driver suggested a quick stop at AIDA Gem Store, and we went along—more to learn than to buy. The shop showcased rows of sapphires, rubies, and topaz, each glittering under the lights. With basic gem knowledge (checking for clarity, noticing color depth), we spotted a few striking sapphires, but as expected, quality came with a price tag. In the end, we left empty-handed but richer in curiosity—sometimes, window-shopping teaches you just as much. 💎🔍🛍️ 4. Galle Fort: A Charming, Unrushed Gem Galle Fort was a revelation—such a relaxed, welcoming spot, perfect for wandering without a plan. The midday sun blazed, though, so we adjusted: at 3 PM, we ducked into Aman Galle for afternoon tea. Sipping iced Ceylon tea and nibbling on delicate pastries in their shaded courtyard gave us the energy to explore once the heat mellowed. ☀️🍰🍵 5. Wandering the Fort: Walls, Sunsets, and Slow Moments By 4 PM, the light softened, and we set off. Walking along the coastal walls toward the clock tower, we passed open lawns where locals picnicked and kids chased dogs. The sea breeze ruffled our hair, and suddenly, the travel fatigue melted away. From the clock tower, we followed the path to the lighthouse, the ocean stretching endlessly to our left. At the southernmost cliff, we sat on stone steps, watching the sun dip below the horizon—pinks and oranges painting the sky—until dusk turned to dark. Only then did we meander back through the fort’s cobblestone lanes, popping into tiny shops and breathing in the quiet charm. 🏰🌅🌬️ #SriLankaDiaries #GalleFort #CoastalTrain #SriLankaTravel #Wanderlust #Day1InSriLanka #GalleDiaries