Chirath De Silva urges greater promotion of Galle Fort for heritage tourism

Sri Lanka should do more to promote Galle Fort as a unique heritage destination where the history of three European powers – the Portuguese, Dutch and British – converges with Sri Lankan culture, says Chirath De Silva, a tour guide and third-generation resident of Galle Fort.

He said many visitors from Portugal, the Netherlands and Britain, as well as Sri Lankans, particularly younger generations, were unaware of the history and heritage associated with Galle Fort.

“They also do not know that many historic attractions within Galle Fort remain accessible to the public with less hassle, but do not take advantage of the opportunity to explore them,” he said.

It was this lack of awareness that prompted De Silva to become a licensed tour guide and introduce walking and bicycle tours of Galle Fort for both local and foreign visitors more than a decade ago.

“Today, I have conducted more than 10,000 tours, and my efforts have been highly appreciated by participants. International travel publications such as Lonely Planet have also highlighted this initiative,” he said.

He added that several leading international travel agencies and local tour companies now include the Galle Fort walking tour in their programmes for visitors.

De Silva has also continued his family’s long-standing connection with the fort’s tourism and hospitality history. He managed his family’s ancestral tea business, the National Tea Room, established by his great-grandfather in 1932. It was one of the first establishments of its kind in Galle Fort and was patronised by colonial rulers and local residents, including students from nearby schools.

The tea room also served rice and curry, which became popular among its customers.

“With changing demand patterns, I dismantled the National Tea Room and built a two-storey building, introducing Ayubowan Home Galle, a two-room luxury homestay,” De Silva said.

Today, Ayubowan Home Galle offers guests free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and private bathrooms, with both rooms featuring balconies overlooking the city. The rooms also include work desks and sofa beds, while guests are provided with two complimentary bicycles.

Guests are provided with private check-in and check-out services, while other facilities include a hairdresser and beautician, family rooms and bicycle hire. Additional amenities include tea and coffee-making facilities, bidets and complimentary toiletries.

De Silva also owns a classic Morris Minor, which has become popular for weddings, special occasions and heritage tours around Galle Fort.

He believes greater awareness and promotion of Galle Fort’s unique history, combined with authentic experiences offered by local residents, could help strengthen its appeal as a major cultural and heritage tourism destination.