Other activities in The South
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Mangrove Sanctuary
A different kind of walk (Rs 250) can be found at the Mangrove Sanctuary; a disorganised work in progress, it one day might be a highly commendable local conservation effort protecting a swampy slab of snail, crab, bird and even monkey-filled mangrove forest a few minutes inland. Even though there is little infrastructure at the moment, it’s well worth taking time out from the beach to pace the raised walkways through the tangled roots and trees. To get there look for the yellowing signs along the Galle–Matara road and then ask and ask.
reviewed
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Sonjas Health Food Restaurant
Sonjas Health Food Restaurant runs highly recommended day-long cookery courses (Rs 3000) that tutor you in the finer points of Sri Lankan cuisine. The course is led by the lovely Karuna and a trip to Galle market is included in the price. Try to book at least a day in advance.
reviewed
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Juliet Coombe
Author, photographer, historian, chef and just generally multitalented Juliet Coombe leads small group or individual tours of Galle, as well as child-friendly tours. She can normally be found at the Serendipity Arts Café. Tours cost Rs 1500.
reviewed
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Bavarian Divers
Bavarian Divers, close to the harbour at the western end of the beach, runs PADI courses (€295) as well as excursions such as wreck dives. It can also organise whale and dolphin diving and snorkelling trips.
reviewed
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Sanctuary Spa
If a holiday means doing nothing more strenuous than being utterly pampered, the Sanctuary Spa should be music to your knotted muscles. A full treatment (male masseurs only) is around Rs 1600.
reviewed
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Sea Horse Scuba Diving Centre
A well-regarded and long-standing outfit that rents out snorkelling gear for Rs 800 per day. A Professional Association of Diving Instructors’ (PADI) Open Water course costs €300.
reviewed
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Harsha Yoga Course
You can stretch and bend through a yoga course with Harsha Yoga Course, which specialises in Ashtanga and Hatha yoga. Individual one-hour classes cost Rs 1000.
reviewed
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Adventure Asia International
Hot-air ballooning is a romantic and wonderful way to see Galle and its surroundings from an entirely new angle. Contact Adventure Asia International.
reviewed
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Unawatuna Diving Centre
Runs PADI courses from €300. Also rents out equipment and offers single dives.
reviewed