GAL OYA NATIONAL PARK

The park is located in a dry area, mainly subject to the influence of the northeast monsoon. The average annual rainfall is 1 766 mm. The best visit period is between May and end November. The Gal Oya Valley could have been occupied by Sinhalese kings at three locations: Digha Vapi, Govindahela and Nilgala. The mountainous region in the west was one of the last bastions of the Veddas. Created in 1954, this 64 000 ha park is close to several water points, including the huge Senanayake Samudra reservoir. There are plenty of elephants and the most interesting excursion to make is the boat ride that allows you to see the pachyderms or in full toilet. The park is very little developed for tourism and, except for a campsite, there is no accommodation inside. Rooms are available in Inginiyagala and Ampara. You can find a guide and 4 x 4 in Ampara and Inginiyagala.