Gal Oya National Park Safari From Arugambay

Hidden on the East Coast, the Gal Oya National Park lies well off the beaten path and is somewhat mysterious even to the locals. 30 years of civil war on this side of the island stopped tourism in its tracks and Gal Oya is only now emerging as a significant wildlife destination. We would argue that this unique national park is one of Sri Lanka’s best-kept secrets! Made up of mostly dry-zone forest and grassland, the park is a biodiversity hub, with some flora dating back to the Jurassic period. Sloth bears and leopards have been occasionally spotted within the park, but sightings are rare. You are more likely to encounter the park’s larger resident: the Asian elephant. It is also a fantastic spot for bird watching. Take a jeep safari or boat through Gal Oya to the banks of the Makara River for a picnic lunch with a stellar view and hopefully some great wildlife sightings en route! Gal Oya is the most untouched of all of Sri Lanka’s national parks and is the only one where you can take a boat safari. Take to the water to see elephants swimming, crocodiles basking, and birdlife up close