Sri Lanka Accommodation,
Hill Country

Gal Oya Lodge

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Gal Oya Lodge is at the forefront of Sri Lankan eco-tourism. A luxurious eco lodge comprising ten standalone bungalow suites blending seamlessly into the wilderness surroundings, Gal Oya prides itself upon its synergy with nature and lack of environmental damage. The lodge focuses upon recycling, energy saving and growing their own produce where possible, as well as supporting the local communities by using local craftsmen for all of the buildings and furnishings, and their newly installed wildlife training ad research facility to help both local people and animals.

Situated on the edge of the Gal Oya National Park, this lodge is a perfect base from which to explore the wildlife delights of the area. A rare opportunity in Sri Lanka, from the lodge you can take a boat safari on Sri Lanka’s largest lake and discover wildlife from a whole new perspective. You may be lucky enough to see the elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. Birdlife is exceptional on the lake, and migratory birds swell their ranks during the months of December to April. Other activity options include traditional jeep safaris, exploring in the lodge’s 20-acre private forest, or simply relax by the pool. For a cultural experience, visit one of the local Vedda villages – the Vedda being the indigenous forest-dwelling people of central Sri Lanka. The lodge is lucky to be neighbouring one of the last remaining Vedda communities.

The nine bungalow bedrooms are light and airy, featuring floor to ceiling glass windows leading out onto their private verandas. Having been built in local woods and following traditional styles, the bungalows seamlessly blend into their surroundings and donate an authentic Sri Lankan feeling to your stay. There is also a two bedroom family villa, perched at the highest point of the grounds to offer privacy and stunning views. With two bedrooms adjoined by a spacious living room, and a wraparound veranda, this is a fabulous accommodation option for families and small groups.

Facilities

Rooms have king sized beds, living room areas, ensuite al fresco bathrooms, and modern amenities. The lodge also has a swimming pool, bar, restaurant and dining area, and helipad.

Local Wildlife

Sri Lanka is home to around 123 species of mammal including the large sloth bear, the endemic Sri Lankan leopard and Sri Lankan elephant. There are over 171 species of reptile on the island including a variety of snakes, the mugger crocodile and saltwater crocodile. Sri Lanka also has one of the richest biodiversity of amphibians in the world, containing over 119 species. Finally, the island boasts 433 species of birds such as boobies, storm petrels, flamingos and pelicans.

Optional Activities

Boat safaris, jeep safaris, bicycle tours, bird walks, a jungle cooking course, mountain treks, walking trails within the lodge grounds, forest tours by local Vedda village chief.

Alan Godwin

Area Specialist

If you have any questions regarding our Sri Lanka tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965

“It was a very good tour in every respect…Anyone fortunate enough to get [our guide] as their guide will have met an excellent ambassador for Sri Lanka. It was a perfect mix of culture and wildlife and overall a very good mix of hotels.

Mr I C - Dorset