Gal Oya National Park Sri Lanka which is located in the Uva Province, hidden away on the East Coast, the Gal Oya National Park lies well off-the-beaten-path. Gal Oya National Park was established in 1954 by the Gal Oya Development Board, essentially to protect the catchment area of the bondless 'Senanayake Samudra' Reservoir which is the largest reservoir in Sri Lanka. In 1965 it was handed over to the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Made up of mostly dry-zone forest and grassland, the park is a biodiversity hub, with some both fauna and flora and about 45 percent of the Park is covered by evergreen forest while a further 33 percent is taken up by savannah areas. Park consist three mountains called Nilgala, Danigala and Ulpotha.
Leopard and Sloth bear have been occasionally witnessed, but sightings are rare. You are more likely to come across the park’s larger residents: the Asian elephant. It is also a paradise for bird watching. West of the Park was one of the last refuge of Sri Lanka's indigenous tribes, the Veddas.
When is the best time to visit Gal Oya?
The Gal Oya National Park can be visited throughout the year, However the period from March to July is best as this is when the elephants gather around the waterholes to drink and socialize.
What to wear when in safari?
Sunglasses, Hat, Suitable casual clothing for windy, rainy, warm weather conditions.
What to bring for the safari?
Sun Cream, Cameras/video recorders to capture those exciting moments
