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Watch elephants swimming at this national park.

Gal Oya

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Gal Oya became a national park in 1954 and is found in the south-east of the island. One of the highlights of visiting this park is watching the resident elephant herd swimming between islands at sunset. Gal Oya is a utopia for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a raw, rugged experience that is spread out across 63,000 hectares of land which is home to an array of diverse wildlife. Here, you will come across three precious herbs that are integral to the age-old Ayurvedic treatments. You will also have the opportunity to meet the Vedda community which lives here, a small population of Sri Lanka’s indigenous people who live an entirely separate existence from the other people on the island. The area is soothing and invigorating for those seeking to escape the stresses of daily urban life.

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Fun Facts

  • Between March and July, go on a boat safari – you may witness a herd of elephants swimming from one island to another.

Experiences & Things to Do at Gal Oya

Gal Oya experience: a walk with the veddas, Sri Lanka’s indigenous people - Gal Oya -  Sri Lanka In Style
Gal Oya experience: a walk with the veddas, Sri Lanka’s indigenous people

In order to conserve the secret and delicate nature of the Vedda’s culture, guests will only meet with the tribe leader and second-in command.

Gal Oya experience: boat safari on the Senanyake Samudra - Gal Oya -  Sri Lanka In Style
Gal Oya experience: boat safari on the Senanyake Samudra

Go on a relaxing boat safari on the Senanyake Samudra and look out for wildlife, including elephants swimming between the islands.

Gal Oya experience: climb monkey mountain - Gal Oya -  Sri Lanka In Style
Gal Oya experience: climb monkey mountain

Monkey Mountain offers a convenient and exhilarating two hour climb and offers beautiful views from the top.

Gal Oya experience: jeep safari and a picnic lunch in Gal Oya national park - Gal Oya -  Sri Lanka In Style
Gal Oya experience: jeep safari and a picnic lunch in Gal Oya national park

Accompanied by a naturalist, drive through the park in search of Sri Lanka’s big game and other wildlife. Dig into a delicious lunch afterwards.


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