Gal Oya National Park is located in southeast Sri Lanka, to the west of Ampara, with the intention of serving as the main catchment area of the Senanayake Samudra, the largest reservoir in Sri Lanka. Like all other national parks of the country, Gal Oya National Park was Established in 1954 and a popular ecotourism venue and then handed over to the department of Wildlife Conservation in 1965. 45% of the 25,900 hectare park is evergreen forest, 33% is savannah grasslands and the inhabitance of 32 terrestrial mammals have been recorded, which include the Sri Lankan elephant (no surprise there), Sri Lankan axis deer, Sri Lankan sambar deer, water buffalos, toque monkeys and wild boars.

A diverse population of reptiles and over 150 species of birds including raptors are present too. The park encloses three mountains – Danigala, Nilgala and Ulpotha. Danigala holds historic significance, being home to the Henebedde Veddas, one of the Vedda clans in Sri Lanka, an indigenous tribe. An alternate access to the park is via a boat ride across the Senanayake Samudraya, making boat safaris a popular activity, as riders can witness elephants enjoying a swim in the reservoir, moving from island to island within the reservoir in search of food. If you’re looking for some place tranquil, and to be one with nature, book yourself a trip to Gal Oya National Park, for it shall not disappoint.