Book with confidence:
We'll cover any potential airline fuel surcharge when you book before 31 August 2026Learn More
Book with confidence:
We'll cover any potential airline fuel surcharge when you book before 31 August 2026Learn More

The Merchant

Sri Lanka Galle

Get a Quote
Get a Quote

Hotel overview

Located in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, The Merchant is a beautifully restored boutique hotel that effortlessly blends historic character with contemporary style. Housed within a former merchant's building, the hotel retains many of its original architectural features while offering elegant, modern interiors, creating a stylish and welcoming retreat just moments from Galle's charming cafés, galleries and boutiques. With just 14 beautifully designed rooms, The Merchant offers an intimate atmosphere and genuinely personalised service. Each room has been thoughtfully furnished with contemporary comforts whilst respecting the building's rich heritage, making it a relaxing place to return to after exploring the fort's cobbled streets. Downstairs, the hotel's popular restaurant serves an excellent selection of Sri Lankan and international dishes, while the friendly team are always on hand with recommendations to help you make the most of your stay. Perfectly positioned within easy walking distance of Galle's historic ramparts, restaurants and independent shops, The Merchant is an excellent base from which to experience one of Sri Lanka's most captivating coastal towns.

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Quirky excursions

View all excursions in Sri Lanka
Excursion

Whale and Dolphin Watching from Mirissa

  Between December and April both blue and sperm whales can be found close to the coast of Sri Lanka, nearby to Mirissa, which is just 1 hour east of Galle. This region has emerged as one of the world’s major whale watching destinations and during the December-April period whale sightings are fairly likely as the whales annually migrate from the Bay of Bengal.  Blue whales are the largest animal on earth, and also one of the most endangered, so this is an incredible opportunity to see them close by. The best way to enjoy these magnificent creatures, along with the resident spinner dolphins, is by boat. Our whale-watching trip takes you out for approximately four-five hours in the morning, in either a 35 or 50-seated boat (depending on the popularity that day). The trip begins at 6.45 from Mirissa Harbour and includes life jackets, mineral water, coffee and a king coconut at the end of the tour.  

Excursion

Rural Cycling Tour

Our Rural Cycling Tour starts south of Galle, where the city gives way to true untouched rural landscapes. The tour weaves through paddy fields, coconut plantations and through traditional Sri Lankan villages. It passes by schools, ancient Dutch canals, Buddhist temples and even a tea plantation. This verdant area is home to an abundance of bird life, including kingfishers, black drongos, parakeets, and if you're lucky you might see wild peacocks. Half way you will stop for a refreshing king coconut and at the same time you will learn about local spices that are grown in the region. This is a wonderful and fairly easy bike ride that lasts for about 1.5hrs. We suggest going early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the weather is cooler.  Please note there are some longer options for more experienced cyclists; if you are interested please let us know.

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