Gal Oya National Park, which is located in the Uva and Eastern Provinces of Sri Lanka, in close proximity to Ampara is one of the most beautiful places in the island. It’s a remarkable attraction that is quite often included in Sri Lanka wildlife holidays.
The park was established back in the year 1954 and serves as the main catchment area of the largest reservoir in the country, the ‘Senanayake Samudra’. This majestic reservoir glistens like silver under the brilliant blue skies while flocks of birds gaily gather upon its banks. It’s the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy a moment of peace.
Over 150 species of birds can be seen here. Among these, lesser adjutants, grey-headed fish eagles, white-bellied sea eagles, red-faced malkohas and lesser whistling ducks are quite easy to spot. In addition to the birds, the Gal Oya National Park also nurtures large groups of mammals. Many tourists, in fact, visit it in the hopes of seeing the herd of elephants who call this enchanting haven their home. You will also most likely come across toque monkeys, water buffaloes, Sri Lankan axis deer, and Sri Lankan leopards during a tour. The gorgeous lesser albatross, which is a butterfly species that is endemic to Sri Lanka, is also commonly spotted in the Gal Oya National Park.
