Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya National Park is a sprawling wilderness reserve in eastern Sri Lanka centered around the Senanayake Samudraya reservoir, the largest inland water body on the island. Covering over ten thousand hectares of forest, grassland, and wetlands, the park supports diverse habitats that host elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and more than a hundred bird species. Boat safaris across the tranquil reservoir provide unique sightings of elephant herds swimming between islands and grazing along quiet shorelines. Canoe tours offer a gentler experience to observe waterbirds, otters, and endemic fish species amid floating vegetation. Ancient riparian temples and crumbling ruins dot the forest-water interface, hinting at human settlements that thrived on the lake’s bounty. Guided treks through evergreen and riverine forests reveal hidden streams, marshy clearings, and vibrant plant life. Local communities collaborate on conservation programs aimed at balancing eco-tourism with habitat protection. Gal Oya’s blend of aquatic adventure, wildlife diversity, and cultural heritage makes it an underexplored gem for intrepid travelers