Surrounded by scenic landscapes and lush greenery, the Gal Oya National Park is the ideal location to have an unforgettable wildlife experience. If you seek a taste of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife, look no further than the Gal Oya National Park!
Located in the southeast region of Sri Lanka, Gal Oya National Park is home to about 32 species of mammals, including resident herds of elephants, the toque macaque langur, sloth bear, wild boar, water buffalo, and deer. What’s more? About 150 different species of birds can be spotted in the park, making it the perfect sanctuary for birdwatchers.
Currently, as about 45% of the park is covered by evergreen forests, 33% by savanna areas and 9% with grasslands, visitors to the area can embark on exciting wildlife safaris – either by jeep or by boat.
The national park is best known for its exhilarating boat safaris where visitors often get the incredible chance to spot herds of wild elephants swimming from the Senanayake Reservoir, the largest reservoir in Sri Lanka, to the many islands in the lake. The park also offers the opportunity to meet a clan of Vedda people living in the area – the indigenous people of Sri Lanka – and gain insight into how the Vedda community lives in harmony with nature.
Gal Oya is off the beaten track and a unique destination that gives you an insight into Sri Lanka’s lesser-known natural wonders.