Amangalla: A Serene Haven in Galle Fort, Journeying Through Time

In Galle Fort, Sri Lanka, within the walls of a 400-year-old World Heritage site, a white colonial building stands quietly at the end of Church Street. This is not only Aman Group's first hotel in Sri Lanka but also a living museum of the colonial era. Amangalla is located within the ancient walls of Galle Fort, its architectural history dating back to 1684. As a historical witness to the colonial era of the East India Company, it successively welcomed guests under the names "Oriental Hotel" and "New Oriental Hotel" until its rebirth as Amangalla in 2005. Stepping into the Great Hall, with its high-hanging old-fashioned ceiling fans and chandeliers, polished teak floors and antique silverware whisper under soft light. Every corner tells a legend spanning three centuries. 01 Historical Gem A legend spanning three centuries, witnessing the glory and changes of Galle Fort. The building where Amangalla is located was originally built in 1684, initially used as a colonial building by the East India Company. In 1863, several British merchants converted it into the Oriental Hotel, making it one of the earliest operating hotels in Asia. After 140 years of operation under the name "New Oriental Hotel," the building was acquired by the Aman Group in 2002. After meticulous renovation, it reopened in 2005 as Amangalla. The hotel perfectly preserves the architectural features of the Dutch colonial period – soaring ceilings, open arched windows, and veranda designs – making guests feel as if they have stepped into a time tunnel. As an inspiring continuation of Galle Fort's culture and history, Amangalla has become an indispensable part of Sri Lanka's heritage. 02 Location A tranquil oasis within a World Heritage site, offering magnificent views of the ancient city and the ocean. Amangalla is located on Church Street within Galle Fort, situated inside the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort. This 400-year-old ancient city is one of Sri Lanka's seven World Heritage sites. From the hotel, guests can easily stroll to Galle's landmarks – the Groote Kerk (Dutch Reformed Church), the ancient lighthouse, and distinctive colonial-era buildings. The hotel is approximately a 2.5-3 hour drive from Colombo Airport. From December to April each year, guests can reach the coast in about 40 minutes to observe migrating blue whales. 03 Space Design A perfect blend of colonial charm and modern luxury, embodying timeless elegance. Amangalla's Great Hall is the soul of the hotel, with high ceilings adorned with old-fashioned ceiling fans and chandeliers. Verandas lead to the tree-lined front street, creating a serene atmosphere imbued with a sense of history. Throughout the hotel, antiques, old prints, and faded linens are displayed, complemented by gleaming teak floors and expensive mahogany, presenting a rich colonial ambiance. Each guest room is equipped with a luxurious four-poster bed, a writing desk, and a cabinet. The spacious bathrooms feature two vanities, a separate bathtub, and a shower. Some rooms offer garden views or overlook the ancient church. 04 Room Experience A seamless blend of colonial elegance and modern comfort, creating a private sanctuary. Amangalla offers a variety of room types, from 40-square-meter Deluxe Rooms to 152-square-meter Garden Villas, catering to the needs of different guests. Deluxe Rooms, measuring 40 square meters, overlook the Dutch colonial-style Groote Kerk or the hotel garden, featuring jackwood floors and colonial-style furniture. Verandah Rooms, measuring 65-80 square meters, feature outdoor seating areas facing manicured gardens, offering glimpses of the fort walls and harbor through the foliage. Garden Villas, spanning 152 square meters, feature two levels of living space and a wraparound balcony, overlooking lush garden landscapes, making them an ideal choice for guests seeking privacy and luxury. 05 Dining Experience Exquisite dining in a colonial setting, showcasing Ceylonese flavors and international delicacies. The hotel's main restaurant features classical tables and chairs, crisp white linen tablecloths, and antique silverware. The high ceilings and hanging ceiling fans create a refined and elegant dining atmosphere. The restaurant serves traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and international dishes, specializing in simple French bistro fare, infused with fresh local ingredients and flavors. Afternoon tea is a signature experience at Amangalla, served daily from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM in the veranda area, where guests can enjoy homemade scones, finger sandwiches, and exquisite cakes. 06 Spa & Wellness A perfect combination of ancient traditions and modern therapies, revitalizing body and mind. Amangalla Spa follows the ancient tradition of "healing body and mind with water," characterized by a serene space illuminated by candlelight, exquisite high ceilings, and elegant arches. The spa offers Ayurvedic treatments, a 5000-year-old "science of life" that aims to promote well-being by purifying and balancing the dominant life energies within the body. The hotel also features a 21-meter swimming pool, a yoga pavilion, and a meditation area. Guests can participate in private yoga classes on the fort walls at dawn or meditate in the hotel's 200-year-old garden. 07 Exploration Experience An in-depth journey into a World Heritage site, discovering Ceylonese culture and natural wonders. Amangalla offers meticulously designed excursions, including visits to tea plantations, turtle hatcheries, and stilt fishing experiences, allowing guests to delve deep into Sri Lankan culture and nature. Guests can take a Geoffrey Bawa architectural tour, visiting the works of this renowned Sri Lankan architect, including Lunuganga Estate and his other properties designed in Bentota. Explore Galle Fort with a guided tour, strolling through colonial-era streets, visiting Dutch-era churches, spice warehouses, and the lighthouse, experiencing the unique charm of this World Heritage city. In the evening, sit by the arched windows of the veranda, savor a fragrant cup of Ceylon tea, and watch the sunset gild the walls of Galle Fort. In the distance, local residents stroll along the sea wall, fly kites, and play cricket. Time here becomes slow and precious. Amangalla is not just a hotel; it is a gateway through time, allowing every guest to find their own tranquility and elegance at the intersection of history and modernity.