Amangalla (former New Oriental)
One of the handful of exceptional hotels where The Most Famous Hotels jury generously waived the 50 rooms minimum rule.
The 33 rooms hotels is nestled in the heart of Galle, sparkled with colonial landmarks. The 17th century Dutch Galle Fort, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, houses the most charming and characteristic buildings in the ancient trading port of Galle. In the 19th century horse drawn carriages delivered parasol-bearing gentry to the New Oriental Hotel.
In the 20th century is was owned by Nesta Brohier, a Dutch lady who defended the hotel from being closed, and managed it with allure and flair. (in the centre of the picture, with her two dogs, in 1984).
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The complex of buildings was originally built in 1684 as the headquarters of the Dutch commanders and their staff.
During the British rule, the complex was used as the quarters for their soldiers.
In 1865 it was converted into the New Orient Hotel, catering to the European passengers travelling between Europe and Galle port in the 19th century.
In June 1866, it was opened under the Oriental Hotel Company.
It subsequently became a heritage hotel under the Aman Resorts group of international hotels in 2005 and was renamed Amangalla.
33 Rooms
Amangalla, 120km south of Colombo, resides within the walls of the old Dutch fort in the town of Galle, which bares only two entrances, the British ‘New Gate’ and the Dutch ‘Sea Gate’. All flights arrive into Colombo’s Bandaranaika International airport in the daytime.
Swimming pool, tropical garden