East Coast
Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay is a small town on the south-east coast that has become Sri Lanka's best-known surf destination. Its point breaks draw surfers from around the world during the east-coast season.
Eastern Province
Gal Oya National Park
Gal Oya National Park in eastern Sri Lanka is known for something rare: boat safaris on the large Senanayake Samudra reservoir, where elephants are sometimes seen swimming between islands. There are also jeep safaris, plenty of birdlife and very few other visitors. It's a great add-on to Arugam Bay or an east coast trip.
Gal Oya National Park at a glance
- Region
- East, near Ampara
- Best for
- Boat safaris, elephants, birds, quiet nature
- Best time
- The drier months; ask us about conditions for your dates
- Time needed
- Half day to 1 night
- Getting there
- A few hours by road from Arugam Bay, Ella or the east coast
Things to do
- Boat safari on Senanayake Samudra, with islands, birds and possibly swimming elephants
- Jeep safari through grassland and forest
- Birdwatching at the water's edge
- Nature walks with lodge guides
Tips
- Swimming elephants are a special sighting, not a guarantee.
- Stay overnight nearby for early-morning boat trips.
- Combine Gal Oya with Arugam Bay and Kumana.
A wild, quiet safari in the east
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
Gal Oya National Park: frequently asked questions
Can you really see elephants swimming at Gal Oya?
Sometimes. Elephants do swim between the islands, but sightings aren't guaranteed.
How do I get to Gal Oya?
By road, usually combined with Arugam Bay, Ella or the east coast.
Is Gal Oya busy?
No. It's one of Sri Lanka's quietest parks.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes. Staying nearby makes early boat safaris easier.
Nearby destinations
Eastern Province
Kumana National Park
Kumana National Park sits on the south-east coast, about an hour from Arugam Bay. It borders Yala, but has far fewer visitors. It's famous for its wetland birdlife, especially around the Kumana Villu, and you may also see elephants, crocodiles and, with luck, leopards. It's the perfect safari if you're surfing in Arugam Bay.
East Coast
Pasikuda Beach
Pasikuda is a bay on the east coast known for its very shallow, calm water protected by an offshore reef. A string of resort hotels lines the beach.
Hill Country
Ella
Ella is a relaxed hill-country town set in a gap between mountains, surrounded by tea estates and forest. It is the classic end point of the scenic hill-country railway and a base for easy hikes with big views.
Plan a trip that includes Gal Oya National Park
Tell us when you'd like to travel and what you love, and we'll suggest a route that fits. There's no obligation.