Galoya
Destination
Overview
Gal Oya National Park is one of those places that you can truly let go and discover the luxury of nature. Situated in the south east of Sri Lanka just west of Ampara, the park has evolved naturally, untouched by the hand of man for countless centuries. Over 25,000 hectares of lush evergreen forest and open savanas thrive alongside the narrow country roads.
The island's thriving wildlife
Activists and excursions
MONKEY MOUNTAIN
MONKEY MOUNTAIN
For the adventurous early risers, a 1.5 hour uphill trek first thing in the morning is a must. Up top, dramatic 180 degree views over the large forested valley await. An early start allows you to watch the sun rise over the hills in the distance, observing the never ending jungle canopy below. After you’ve finished, return for a well earned breakfast and enjoy the rest of your day.
A WALK WITH THE CHIEF VEDDHA
A WALK WITH THE CHIEF VEDDHA
Gal Oya Lodge neighbours one of the last remaining communities of the Veddha – the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka. We can invite the village chief to take you on a walk through the jungles of his ancestors.
CYCLE THE WOODS
CYCLE THE WOODS
Join one of our naturalists on a leisurely bicycle ride during your stay at the lodge. you may choose to ride on a shorter off-track trail to the small Kiri Oruwa Lake, which is teeming with bird species. Alternatively, you may ride on the longer main road which cuts through the national park to the beautiful Namal Oya Reservoir. Helmets are provided.
Jeep Safari
Jeep Safari
Gal Oya National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s undiscovered natural treasures. We offer a jeep ride into the forgotten Nilgala section of the park, once the protectorate of ancient royalty for the abundant medicinal plants and endemic birdlife unique to this ecosystem. Although shy and sometimes hard to spot, the park hosts most of the animals found on the island, some of the more likely species to look out for include herds of elephants, four species of deer as well as many bird species. Our more intrepid guests may also opt for the hike to the makara river mouth with one of our expert naturalists, to further experience the jungle and for the chance of seeing wildlife on foot.
PICNIC IN THE WILD
PICNIC IN THE WILD
Enjoy a lunch next to the river, waterfall or overlooking one of the park’s many breathtaking views. We can even provide a delicious picnic lunch prepared by our safari chef. The picnic is best coupled with the jeep safari. We recommend a 12:30pm start for a late lunch and a swim in the river if you wish to continue on with a jeep and walking safari.
Largest lake Safari
Largest lake Safari
Enjoy the only experience in Sri Lanka that allows you to spot wildlife from the water. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the animals’ habitats. With a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. A 2-3 hour safari by boat, and a scenic 40 minute drive from the lodge to the lake is perfect to explore the national park and surrounding villages.
JUNGLE NIGHT WALK
JUNGLE NIGHT WALK
Join one of our resident naturalists for a night walk in the forests surrounding the lodge, and have a chance to see some of our nocturnal neighbours as they emerge from their daily resting spots. Use a torch to spot eyes peering back at you that could belong to a number of different animals including amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. One of the highlights is a chance to spot the bizarre looking Frog Mouth bird or if you are really lucky the endangered thick-tailored Pangolin.
COOK LIKE LOCALS
COOK LIKE LOCALS
Join our Chef Premarathna in our outdoor jungle kitchen hut just a short walk away from the Lodge for an introduction to traditional Sri Lankan cookery. Forage through the forest for some of the key ingredients for your meal on the way to the hut where the rest of the ingredients await you. Cook with Premarathna as he demonstrates how to prepare traditional local meals such as Thalapa, Thumba, river fish curry, spiced yams, forest salads and Kankun.
BIRD WALKS
BIRD WALKS
Join a resident naturalist for a walk around the lodge, enjoying the abundant birdlife and beautiful surroundings. The walk offers a number of possible routes through the trees and around the nearby lake, to observe a wide range of bird species such as Kingfishers, Eagles, Kites and many aquatic birds. Please feel free to discuss your interests with your naturalist for a tailored trip to suit your preferences.
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