The Merchant Galle Fort
64, Peddlers Street, Galle 80000 Sri Lanka
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Avg. C$170 /night, 10/5 - 10/6
C$212
per night
C$188
per night
C$163
per night
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5.0
#3 of 59 hotels in GalleLocation
Cleanliness
Service
Value
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HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Boutique
Charming
Languages Spoken
English
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Free breakfast
Airport transportation
Baggage storage
Concierge
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Doorperson
Laundry service
Room features
Air conditioning
Room service
Safe
Bottled water
Bath / shower
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Location
64, Peddlers Street, Galle 80000 Sri Lanka
Getting there
Great for walkers
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 100 out of 100
100
88 Restaurants
within 0.5 kilometers
Reviews
5.0
321 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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The Merchant Galle Fort hotel garners high marks for its spotless rooms and meticulous maintenance, offering guests a comfortable and elegant stay that marries modern amenities with a heritage vibe, despite some remarks about room sizes. Nestled in the heart of Galle Fort, the establishment's location is a favorite among guests eager to explore local attractions by foot. While the on-site restaurant is appreciated for its quality dining, a few guests caution about the pricing.
The service shines in terms of friendliness and professionalism, although occasional delays at breakfast are noted. The hotel's ambiance and amenities receive accolades for enhancing the overall experience with their tasteful and cozy charm.
Location
Central
Atmosphere
Charming
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Top-notch
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Detailed Reviews
My family and I were at the Mer. Chant - Galle over the weekend. The place is situated on one of the most popular streets called Peddler Street at the Galle fort. Very quaint and well maintained. The rooms are exceptionally well appointed and the staff is probably the best I have experienced in a very long time. Apart from being located in one of the most prime areas in the fort. The place is just a stone throw away from some of the best culinary experiences at the fort. We spent 2 days there and we noticed that it was a very popular spot for tourists, this place was packed during the day and in the evening. The food and beverage offering is very popular with the foreign tourists and they kept coming in. There wasn’t a low moment. Unlike most places the music here is just perfect. The villa owner has made sure to install Bose speakers everywhere, that works really well. I was at Angel Beach and that was a massive let down. The reason was jarring music from a set of few speakers near the DJ. This wasn’t the case here. I’d say money well spent. You can see the attention to detail when you notice that they have used the best possible bed and bath linen. The mattress in the room is also 5-star hotel quality. A good thing about this place is that they have a generator and hence no issue with the current on-going power cuts in the country. 24/7 hot water. 43 inch Smart TV with options of Apple TV, Netflix, Prime and the works. The owner has spent his money very wisely. The one thing you will not get here is a swimming pool, and that is due to restrictions laid down by the fort. The staff and the Manager there make up for this with the amazing food they provide. I loved the breakfast here and thought it was on point. I would highly recommend this place for couples, and people with families.
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Date of stay: April 2022
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Just stay here when you're at Galle, you will not regret it.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My wife and myself checked in to this hotel on our last day in Galle. We were staying at a different hotel, but our plans changed, and needed to stay one extra day in Galle. We chose this hotel.
The hotel is modern and newly built with touches of old-time architecture in a perfect mix of new and old. The main complex is symmetrical and has a central courtyard overlooked surrounded on 3 sides with red tiled and wooden pillared buildings. The courtyard is overlooked by the cafe/restaurant and second floor rooms, lined with a continuous corridor.
On the day, we arrived at the hotel without any prior reservation. Room was available and within a short time all paperwork was done and we were shown to our rooms. The room was very tastefully decorated and the back of the room opened to a common corridor. The whole hotel had a wood colour theme to it. The traditional Sri Lankan breakfast was decent.
The attitude of the staff at this hotel was what really shone. They were super courteous, friendly and helpful. They granted our request to check out late. They even went out of their way to help us when we ran into a difficult situation, namely, the manager Chamika and another gentleman by the name Amin. On our last evening, before leaving Galle we were doing some last minute shopping. We shopped at a store adjacent to the hotel and forgot our camera in the store. By the time we remembered about it, the store had closed. Scheduled to leave Galle in an hour, we were in a very difficult situation. In this time, Chamika and Amin came to our rescue. They helped us contact the people from the store, which in itself was not easy as they were unreachable at first. Chamika and Amin stayed with us the whole time, while we were stressed, till the store staff was contacted. Luckily the store staff was able to open the store and we were able to retrieve our camera. The kind person who opened the store for us even refused to accept the compensation I offered for his time and effort.
The above experience reflects the level of hospitality and care exhibited by the hotel staff towards its guest. In fact this is a reflection of Sri Lankan people overall towards tourists. Fantastic hotel, fantastic staff, fantastic country!
The hotel is modern and newly built with touches of old-time architecture in a perfect mix of new and old. The main complex is symmetrical and has a central courtyard overlooked surrounded on 3 sides with red tiled and wooden pillared buildings. The courtyard is overlooked by the cafe/restaurant and second floor rooms, lined with a continuous corridor.
On the day, we arrived at the hotel without any prior reservation. Room was available and within a short time all paperwork was done and we were shown to our rooms. The room was very tastefully decorated and the back of the room opened to a common corridor. The whole hotel had a wood colour theme to it. The traditional Sri Lankan breakfast was decent.
The attitude of the staff at this hotel was what really shone. They were super courteous, friendly and helpful. They granted our request to check out late. They even went out of their way to help us when we ran into a difficult situation, namely, the manager Chamika and another gentleman by the name Amin. On our last evening, before leaving Galle we were doing some last minute shopping. We shopped at a store adjacent to the hotel and forgot our camera in the store. By the time we remembered about it, the store had closed. Scheduled to leave Galle in an hour, we were in a very difficult situation. In this time, Chamika and Amin came to our rescue. They helped us contact the people from the store, which in itself was not easy as they were unreachable at first. Chamika and Amin stayed with us the whole time, while we were stressed, till the store staff was contacted. Luckily the store staff was able to open the store and we were able to retrieve our camera. The kind person who opened the store for us even refused to accept the compensation I offered for his time and effort.
The above experience reflects the level of hospitality and care exhibited by the hotel staff towards its guest. In fact this is a reflection of Sri Lankan people overall towards tourists. Fantastic hotel, fantastic staff, fantastic country!
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Date of stay: October 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Chamika Wickramanayake, General Manager at The Merchant Galle Fort
Responded Nov 11, 2021
Hi Farhan, It was our pleasure to welcome you and your wife at The Merchant Galle Fort we are extremely grateful for taking your time to write and such an amazing review on us. Our team at Merchant is delighted to learn that you have enjoyed our hospitality and we look forward to welcoming you back soon...!!! Regards, Chamika
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Located in a cosy environment inside the heart of Galle fort. I’m glad that we took the risk of exploring this newly opened place. Being located at such an iconic place the menu provided a good choice at reasonable prices with attentive friendly staff. Loved the space, and the ambience. The staff were very helpful, and the food tasted great. Their wood-fired pizzas are a must-try and this place is a must-visit!!!
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Date of stay: February 2021
Value
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Chamika Wickramanayake, General Manager at The Merchant Galle Fort
Responded Apr 1, 2021
Dear Prashadi, Thank you very much for visiting us and for taking the time to share your very positive review. We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience with us. We are at Merchant look forward to welcoming you back soon..!!! Kind Regards, Chamika
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Absolutely fabulous hotel with a wonderful staff. The rooms were comfortable and since most places in the Fort were closed we had all meals at the hotel and the staff went to a great length to prepare these for us. Special thanks to Riswan but general thanks to all staff.
Lovely architecture and good base to explore the fort.
Lovely architecture and good base to explore the fort.
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Date of stay: September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Chamika Wickramanayake, General Manager at The Merchant Galle Fort
Responded Oct 28, 2021
Dear Shalini, Thank you very much for choosing The Merchant while you were at Galle and taking your valuable time write amazing review on us. I will certainly pass your appreciation to Rizwan and rest of the team. Look forward to welcoming you back soon. Regards, Chamika
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excellent stay . Such comfortable and pretty rooms all wooden and cane furniture . Very clean and comfortable .
The location was perfect right in the center of galle fort .The staff was exceptional extremely attentive and accommodating they did everything to make us feel comfortable.
Mr samith and miss minu really went out of their way to make us feel welcomed both were very friendly and pleasant .
The food also was very good ,Very big portions and quite tasty . The restaurant staff did a great job as well even offered to keep the kids busy while we eat .
I would definitely be coming back here it’s the perfect place to stay in when I’m galle .
The location was perfect right in the center of galle fort .The staff was exceptional extremely attentive and accommodating they did everything to make us feel comfortable.
Mr samith and miss minu really went out of their way to make us feel welcomed both were very friendly and pleasant .
The food also was very good ,Very big portions and quite tasty . The restaurant staff did a great job as well even offered to keep the kids busy while we eat .
I would definitely be coming back here it’s the perfect place to stay in when I’m galle .
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Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Be very vary. The high Trip advisor ratings apparentlyseem to be "managed" through false reviews. The hotel is charecterised by poor and highly unprofessional management especially its on-site GM Chamika. The owners and senior management are also not bothered about guest conveniences.
Be prepared to be locked out of your room for hours with nobody to give you your keys back. Other than this hotel , we have never seen a reception in any hotel that is unmanned for over an hour and you are locked out with no remorse on the part of the hotel for such issues. Also be prepared for late check ins that are well beyond the official check in time - in fact do not be surprised if the hotel has allowed previous guests to stay on in your allocated room well into your check in time even in these Pandemic days. Their solution to such inconveniences and approach is to try and offer you a small discount and a meal to make up for their mistake.
Strongly recommend exploring alternate hotels as this a a clear avoid if you are looking for quality service and professional hotel management.
Be prepared to be locked out of your room for hours with nobody to give you your keys back. Other than this hotel , we have never seen a reception in any hotel that is unmanned for over an hour and you are locked out with no remorse on the part of the hotel for such issues. Also be prepared for late check ins that are well beyond the official check in time - in fact do not be surprised if the hotel has allowed previous guests to stay on in your allocated room well into your check in time even in these Pandemic days. Their solution to such inconveniences and approach is to try and offer you a small discount and a meal to make up for their mistake.
Strongly recommend exploring alternate hotels as this a a clear avoid if you are looking for quality service and professional hotel management.
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Date of stay: December 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We were a group of girl. The place was very clean and safe. They took really good care of us and did everything they could to make our stay memorable. They recommended the best and safest place to bathe in the beach and also accommodated all our requests to extend our stay and breakfast times. Special shout out to Ameen for answering all our calls and making sure we had a good time!
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Date of stay: October 2022Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nestled in the iconic streets of Galle Fort, The Merchant is a boutique hotel that used to be an old Dutch building. The space is tastefully created with attention to details right from when you enter. It is in walking distance to all the major spots in Galle fort
The staff was very friendly and made us feel at home right away. Samith was prompt to answer all our questions and also helped us out with recommendations. The rooms are spacious and well maintained.
1701 is their in-house restaurant and has good food options for room service or even dine-in for that matter. It was refreshing to see that the breakfast was made to order instead of the usual Hotel breakfast buffet.
Would highly recommend it if you are planning to spend a few days in the Fort Area.
The staff was very friendly and made us feel at home right away. Samith was prompt to answer all our questions and also helped us out with recommendations. The rooms are spacious and well maintained.
1701 is their in-house restaurant and has good food options for room service or even dine-in for that matter. It was refreshing to see that the breakfast was made to order instead of the usual Hotel breakfast buffet.
Would highly recommend it if you are planning to spend a few days in the Fort Area.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We spent 11th - 13th March, 2022 in "The Merchant" and can report extremely kind and efficient service, comfortable, clear rooms and a very good kitchen.
The "atmosphere" in the hotel is also very Nice and interesting. Top recommendation.
The "atmosphere" in the hotel is also very Nice and interesting. Top recommendation.
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Date of stay: March 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Chamika Wickramanayake, General Manager at The Merchant Galle Fort
Responded Mar 24, 2022
Dear Kurt, Thank you for taking the time to write an amazing review of our hotel and we are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your most recent stay with us. Our team at Merchant continues to strive and deliver efficient service standards and we are delighted to learn that we have achieved this during your stay with us. Please let me know if we can be of any assistance when you plan your next trip to Galle. We look forward to welcoming you back to Merchant Galle Fort soon. Kind Regards, Chamika
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Merchant in Galle Fort is a stunning boutique hotel that perfectly blends modern luxury with charming architecture. Located on the vibrant Peddler Street, the hotel boasts spacious and well-maintained rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests.
The in-house restaurant, 1710, offers a delightful array of culinary options, making dining a pleasure. Breakfast is made to order and features both western and Sri Lankan options that are extremely tasty.
The exceptional service provided by the staff truly sets this hotel apart. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine Sri Lankan hospitality. A big shoutout to Shakila, Samith, Ameen, and Indika for making our stay a very memorable one.
With its prime location in the heart of Galle Fort, guests can easily explore the area's rich history and vibrant culture. The Merchant is an ideal base for families and friends alike, offering a memorable stay with fantastic food and attentive service. I highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Galle.
The in-house restaurant, 1710, offers a delightful array of culinary options, making dining a pleasure. Breakfast is made to order and features both western and Sri Lankan options that are extremely tasty.
The exceptional service provided by the staff truly sets this hotel apart. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine Sri Lankan hospitality. A big shoutout to Shakila, Samith, Ameen, and Indika for making our stay a very memorable one.
With its prime location in the heart of Galle Fort, guests can easily explore the area's rich history and vibrant culture. The Merchant is an ideal base for families and friends alike, offering a memorable stay with fantastic food and attentive service. I highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Galle.
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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"Just make sure you don’t fall into the trap of staying at a chain hotel, a boutique hotel like this one is well worth it!"Read full review
"Compared to the rest of Sri Lanka, Galle is expensive - expect UK prices everywhere you go. "Read full review
"If there aren't enough vegetarian or vegan options on the menu - just ask! The kitchen team have amazing dishes they can swap out!!! "Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
C$153 - C$241 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
Sri LankaSouthern ProvinceGalle DistrictGalle
NUMBER OF ROOMS
14
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Merchant Galle Fort
Which popular attractions are close to The Merchant Galle Fort?
Nearby attractions include Lihiniya Gems (0.2 km), Cara Jewellers (0.07 km), and Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications (0.1 km).
What are some of the property amenities at The Merchant Galle Fort?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at The Merchant Galle Fort?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at The Merchant Galle Fort?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Merchant Galle Fort?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Bungalow - Restaurant & Bar., Cafe 82, and Church Street Gourmet.
Does The Merchant Galle Fort have airport transportation?
Yes, The Merchant Galle Fort offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is The Merchant Galle Fort located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.9 km away from the centre of Galle.
Are any cleaning services offered at The Merchant Galle Fort?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Are there any historical sites close to The Merchant Galle Fort?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Galle Dutch Fort (0.5 km), Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications (0.1 km), and Galle Fort Clock Tower (0.2 km).