Discovering Gal Oya National Park: Wildlife, Boats & Safaris

Do you enjoy the outdoors and want to have a different experience in Sri Lanka? Gal Oya National Park is definitely the only place to look. Of all the national parks in Sri Lanka, Gal Oya is the most untouched and the only one where boat safaris are available. When coming here, travelers can experience Watawanna Lake's aquatic life up close to witness crocodiles hunting, elephants swimming and more species in the wildlife.

So today, we will walk you through the Gal Oya National Park history, special attractions, and tips for making the most of your visit in this article.

About Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya location

Gal Oya National Park is situated in the Badulla District, 376 kilometers northeast of Colombo, with a part of the park extending into the Ampara District. The park's entrance is located near Inginiyagala, 20 kilometers west of Ampara. Ratnapura, Pelmadulla, Udawalawe, Thanamalwila, Wellawaya, Moneragala, and north from Siyambalanduwa to Inginiyagala are the stops along the route from Colombo.

History of Gal Oya Valley National Park

The construction of a huge reservoir was a prestige project that promised to deliver water and wealth to the arid east of the new Dominion of Ceylon when the teardrop island gained independence from the British Empire in 1948. The lake is precisely the same size as the West Midlands and much larger than twice the Isle of Wight, with a catchment area of 384 square miles.

Gal Oya National Park was created in 1954 with the primary goal of safeguarding the Senanayake Samudraya Reservoir's watershed area. Not included in the National Park, this reservoir is the biggest in Sri Lanka. It was a component of a plan to clear roughly 162,000 hectares of forest for industrial and agricultural uses. A significant fishery is also supported by the reservoir, and the water it contains is a useful supply for irrigation.

The Digha Vapi Dagoba, which dates back to the second century and marks the location where Lord Buddha sat during his final visit to Sri Lanka, is one of the park's cultural landmarks. Another location with a Brahmi inscription is the Henebedde cave, which is close to Wadinagala and lies east of the park.

Gal Oya National Park

What Can You Expect From Gal Oya National Park?

Home to the Only Boat Safari in Sri Lanka

One of the park's most exciting experiences is the Gal Oya National Park boat safari. Unlike traditional jeep safaris are the norm, this unique adventure allows visitors to explore the park's breathtaking landscapes while cruising on the reservoir.

Glide across Senanayake Samudraya's serene waters, the soft lap a constant friend. You can get up close to the wildlife thanks to this unusual viewpoint, which makes for some amazing views. You can also witness elephants swimming between the islands, various aquatic birds, and crocodiles basking on the shores. Watch for them grazing along the shoreline or even cooling off in the lake; it's a sight that only this park can offer and a memory you'll always treasure.

Rich Diversity

The boat safari in Gal Oya National Park offers a wealth of untouched evergreen forests and vast savannahs. As you board the boat from the shores of Senanayake Samudra Lake, have your binoculars handy and keep an eye out for any animals that might be drinking or plunging into the water. There are 32 animal species and 150 bird species in Gal Oya.

One of the greatest elephant populations is found in Gal Oya, and since these herds do not go back and forth between different national parks, they are visible throughout the year. The Gal Oya National Park also has many other species like the Grey langur, Leopard, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Water buffalo, and three species of deer. Other reptiles are snakes, crocodiles, and lizards.

Photographers also find heaven in the lake, where they may get images of pelicans standing on the ghostly tree trunks that evoke the forest that once covered these acres and sea eagles diving for fish. Old red saris are used as sails on fishing boats. However, the illusive dream image shows a flotilla of elephants swimming between the islands with their trunks snorkeled up.

Gal Oya National Park boat safari is a unique experience that you should try

Exploring Ancient Ruins

Beyond its scenic splendor, Gal Oya National Park is secretly home to relics from past civilizations. Archaeological sites, such as the Magul Vihara stupa, which is thought to date from the third century BC, are scattered across the park. Investigate these intriguing remains and learn about the area's rich past.

Planning Your Gal Oya National Park Safari

Best time to visit Gal Oya National Park

The dry season, which runs from May to September, is the ideal time of year to visit Gal Oya National Park. Better wildlife sightings are possible because of the excellent weather and clear skies. Although the park is available all year round, rising water levels during the wet season (November to March) may make some places inaccessible.

The ideal time of day to go on a safari is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. It won't be as hot as it is in the heat of the day, and you will see more animals.

Gal Oya National Park entrance fees

In order to enter the park, visitors must purchase Gal Oya National Park tickets at the entry point. Entry fees usually contribute to the conservation and maintenance of the park. The fee may vary for Sri Lankans and foreigners, so it is best to check with the authorities or local tour guides before visiting.

• Entrance fees: Adults pay LKR 2000 per person, while children pay LKR 1000. The complete Jeep journey costs LKR 11,000 for a full-day Jeep safari.
• Time openings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Purchasing a ticket to enter the Gal Oya National Park

How to Get to Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya is roughly 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) from the town of Ampara in the southwest region of Sri Lanka. The national park is 92 kilometers (57.2 miles) away from Kandy and can be accessed by:

• Public transportation: Go to Ampara by bus. You must first take a bus to Randenigala and then another to Ampara if you're traveling from Kandy. After that, you'll need to go to the national park in a private vehicle.
• Private car: Private automobile travel is the most convenient and costly way to reach Gal Oya National Park.

Gal Oya National Park accommodation

There are several Gal Oya National Park accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly stays. Some popular choices include:

• Gal Oya Lodge
• Camping in Gal Oya National Park
• Guesthouses and Budget Hotels
• Rathnapriya Safari Guest Galoya
• Wild Glamping Gal Oya

Conclusion

With its many wonders and hidden beauties, Gal Oya National Park is waiting for you. You're well on your way to organizing a memorable trip to Sri Lanka's lesser-known paradise with the help of our travel guide. For those looking to explore Sri Lanka’s untouched wilderness, Gal Oya National Park is the perfect destination.

Whether you embark on a Gal Oya National Park safari, take a breathtaking boat safari, or experience camping under the stars, this park offers an unparalleled nature escape. Be sure to check the Gal Oya National Park entrance fees, accommodation options, and the best time to visit Gal Oya National Park before planning your trip.