Gal Oya Lodge

Gal Oya Lodge is hidden away a short drive from Gal Oya National Park, an unspoiled idyll in the eastern region of the country that few have travelled to. The intimate wildlife lodge specialises in high end, environmentally responsible tourism and is home to just nine boutique rooms that will have you feeling back no nature in no time. This is the perfect spot for those who want to escape the crowds and explore the natural beauty of the Sri Lankan landscape, not to mention get to know the animals that inhabit it.

Location

You’ll find Gal Oya spread across 20 acres of private land, set against a backdrop of low lying mountains and forest canopies in Sri Lanka’s most untouched national park. The park is home to the country’s largest lake and is the only place in Sri Lanka where you can embark on water safaris; expect to see wild elephants swimming from island to island.

Your room

Take your pick from nine spacious bungalows and one two bedroom villa at Gal Oya. Each are nestled in the woodland and built in carefully considered locations to take advantage of the spectacular views. We love the outdoor showers and huge floor to ceiling windows that open up onto your private veranda, the ideal place to catch the spectacular sunsets. All the beautiful wooden furniture that decorates the rooms has been handmade by local craftsmen too.

Why we like it?

What’s not to like about a bespoke lodge set in the most stunning of landscapes. We love that you can truly get to grips with authentic Sri Lanka and meet the local tribes people, the ‘Veddas’, and that there’s every chance you might not see another tourist for your entire stay. Throw in the opportunity to embark on jungle drives or to pick chili’s from the farm and Gal Oya is a sure winner.