Explore the Untamed Beauty of Gal Oya Valley National Park
Discover Gal Oya Valley National Park - Sri Lanka's untouched wilderness, rich in biodiversity and adventure, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Sri Lanka, Gal Oya Valley National Park is a captivating destination for tourists seeking an authentic nature escape. This national park, less frequented than others, offers visitors a chance to experience the serene beauty of the island’s wildlife habitats. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes featuring verdant hills, sprawling grasslands, and the picturesque Gal Oya reservoir, which is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. From elephants roaming freely to a multitude of bird species flitting through the trees, wildlife enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for observation and photography. The park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a treasure trove of adventure. Visitors can enjoy guided jeep safaris, trekking trails that weave through the heart of the wilderness, and boat rides on the reservoir that provide a unique vantage point to spot animals. With its well-maintained trails and knowledgeable guides, Gal Oya Valley National Park is perfect for both novice explorers and seasoned adventurers. The park's tranquility and expansive landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, nearby villages offer insights into the traditional lifestyles of the people living in harmony with nature. Enjoying traditional Sri Lankan cuisine can enrich your experience, making your visit to Gal Oya Valley National Park not just an adventure in nature but a complete exploration of the region's cultural tapestry.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated while exploring.
- Consider a guided tour to enhance your experience and learn more about the local flora and fauna.
A brief summary to Gal Oya Valley National Park
- 6FHC+CP4, Henebadda, LK
- +94632242002
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the city of Batticaloa, take the A4 road heading towards Ampara. After about 60 kilometers, you will reach the town of Ampara. From there, take the A24 road towards Henebadda. Continue on the A24 for approximately 25 kilometers. Once you reach Henebadda, look for signs leading to Gal Oya Valley National Park, which is located at 6FHC+CP4. Be sure to have a GPS or map app to assist you in navigating the last few kilometers into the park.
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Public Transportation
To reach Gal Oya Valley National Park via public transport, start by taking a bus from Batticaloa to Ampara. Buses run frequently and the fare is around LKR 70-100. Once in Ampara, you will need to catch a local bus heading to Henebadda. This ride will take approximately 1-1.5 hours and cost around LKR 50-70. Upon arrival in Henebadda, you may either walk to the park entrance or take a tuk-tuk, which should cost around LKR 300-500 depending on your negotiation skills.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer to travel by tuk-tuk from Ampara to Gal Oya Valley National Park, you can hire one once you arrive in Ampara. Make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey. The distance from Ampara to the park is about 25 kilometers and will cost approximately LKR 1500-2000. The ride will take about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Attractions Nearby to Gal Oya Valley National Park
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Senanayaka Samudra
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Senanayake Samudraya සේනානායක සමුද්රය சேனாநாயக்க சமுத்திரம்
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Galoya Forest View Place
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Jayanthi Wewa Hot Spring
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Green Park - Ampara
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Gal oya safari
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Nuwaragala Mountain
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GreenBees Nature Farm
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Deegawapi Raja Maha Vihara
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Galabedda Biso Pond ගලබැද්ද බිසෝ පොකුණ
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Maha Oya Lake
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Karadi Kulam
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Galabedda Archiological Site
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Mini Worlds End (Madulsima) pitamaruwa
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Maha Oya Hot Water Springs
Landmarks nearby to Gal Oya Valley National Park
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Gal Oya Lake Club
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Gal Oya Lodge
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Hotel Lake Jay
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Govinda Hela (Westminster Abbey) - ගෝවින්ද හෙල
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මාණික්කමඩු විහාරය | Manikkamadu Buddhist Temple
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Kehellanda Wewa
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Cave with ancient paintings (ඉපැරණි බිතුසිතුවම් සහිත ලෙන)
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Inscription of King Sena ll (දෙවන සේන රජුගේ ශිලාලේඛණය)
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Ancient Ponds
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Mayuragiri Len Sthoopa
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Tharulengala Aranya Senasanaya (Karadahela Viharaya-කරදහෙළ විහාරය)
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Mayuragiriya Ancient Temple
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Siripathula Mountain, Moneragala
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Seethakanda Ancient Monastery at Monaragala
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Sri Sambodhi Viharaya, ශ්රි සම්බෝධි යෝගාශ්රමය