Gal Oya Lodge

The lodge is in a natural setting with fantastic views of a mountain. The bungalows are Eco-chic and set far apart for privacy with a separate sitting area and outdoor terrace.

The staff was extremely accommodating to our needs, the naturalists were great at their jobs, and the meals were of high quality. We stayed in five different places over eight days in Sri Lanka, and if we had it to do over again, we would have stayed at least three nights. This place is as much about the experience as the wildlife - it is not a commercialized atmosphere where the "wild" animals have been trained by tourism to tolerate tourists, and while we saw less, it still exceeded our expectations. Reminded me slightly of African safaris of 35 years ago - some wildlife, great gin and tonics, and few people. The only critique is that they really need some form of signage off the main road, especially since there is no cell service in the immediate vicinity (also a perk!) to call them when you get close.

This place is simply amazing. Normally the pictures only show the best bits in the best light but I can assure you it really lives up to its description. The property consists of 10/11 ‘bungalows’ sitting in their own little secluded plot surrounding a central lodge where the restaurant and pool are. The rooms are beautiful and large with doors onto a little terrace with your own piece of jungle to sit and enjoy. Just from here we spotted about a dozen species of butterfly, lots of birds including roosting peacocks, little skinks and a big monitor lizard mooching about. The bathroom is beautifully furnished and a little alfresco whilst still maintaining privacy. Solar hot water was the hottest of all the hotels on my 5 week trip and shower pressure was great. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is offered and is exceptional. They also offer a breakfast picnic with the boat safari and a picnic lunch with the jeep safari. Both amazing but I won’t say anymore and ruin the surprise! We went on both the safaris, we were the only boat on the lake save for a few fishermen setting their nets and saw loads of elephants and plenty of birds in a lovely peaceful setting. On the jeep safari, we were the first into the park, at 2pm and and I think the only tourists that day! Our guide Charlie was brilliant and so knowledgable with a great sense of humour, (well done on the coconut in one)! A great thanks to Sam as well who guided me up to the top of monkey mountain.