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Gal Oya National Park

Buried deep in the middle-eastern wilderness of Sri Lanka, Gal Oya National Park has some of the most striking landscapes in the country. But thanks to its secluded location, it lies blissfully under the tourist radar and has remained almost entirely undeveloped to this day.

Wildlife thrives in this unspoiled idyll as it is home to a vast reservoir - the biggest on the island - as well as evergreen forest and wide open savannas. We highly recommend taking a boat safari across the large lake to experience the environment in all its glory and keeping an eye out for Asian elephants swimming between the little islands - it is truly an incredible experience!

Nature lovers will also appreciate watching flocks of birds flitting around overhead and calling to one another, before dipping and diving down to perch on crooked trees among their nests, on 'Bird Island' (known locally as 'Kurulu Dupatha'). There are said to be more than 150 species of birds here and, if luck is on your side, you may be able to spot deer, wild boar, water buffaloes, crocodiles, leopards and even sloth bears wandering around this rugged terrain. 

Sunrises and sunsets can be spectacular here as they reflect off the mighty body of water and set the sky ablaze, while also emphasising the intricate and unusual shapes of the silhouetted trees. Soak in these views when enjoying a delicious picnic on the shore or atmospheric boulders and savour the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, a million miles away from busy life back home - just heaven.

Without a shadow of a doubt, Gal Oya Lodge is Ampersand’s top choice of hotel in this region. We guarantee that you will have a memorable stay here, for this luxurious property is one of our Top 10 Eco Retreats and offers an array of immersive experiences that mean you will see the national park at its finest.

Gal Oya National Park is roughly a three-hour drive east of Kandy and a three-hour drive north of Arugam Bay. Alternatively, two new airports have opened nearby making it much easier to fly there.

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To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson

Client Testimonials

I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma

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