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Gal Oya National Park Safari – See the Swimming Elephants of Sri Lanka

Uncover the untouched beauty of Gal Oya National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems for wildlife lovers. The park is world-renowned for the unforgettable sight of elephants swimming across the vast Senanayake Samudraya Reservoir. Watching these majestic giants glide through open waters is a rare experience found in very few places on earth—perfect for creating memories and photographs that last a lifetime.

Beyond the swimming elephants, Gal Oya is rich in biodiversity. Spot graceful deer, crocodiles, and over 150 species of birds, making it a dream destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Whether you’re seeking a unique wildlife encounter, a serene escape, or a truly authentic safari, Gal Oya National Park delivers an adventure unlike any other in Sri Lanka.Scroll to the bottom of this page to Reserve Now!

Swimming elephants

Best Season: All year round
Available: Daily
Arranging Time Needed: 1 day

Starting Times: 6:30 AM / 9:30 AM / 3:30 PM
Starting Point: Gal Oya Lodge, Polwatta, Wadinagala
Finishing Time: 6 PM
Duration: Approximately 2 hours

What’s Included

  • Boat ride
  • Entrance tickets
  • All government taxes

Restrictions

  • Do not leave plastics behind
  • Please do not feed wild animals.

Child price

  • Aged 6 - 12 is considered a child
  • Aged 0 - 6 is free of charge.

Optional Add-Ons

  • A local animal expert or historian can join for deeper insights (extra fee applies)


What to Bring

  • Hat & sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Camera

Our Service Promise

Our drivers and service providers are instructed not to promote shopping stops or unrelated activities. We value your experience—please share your feedback on Google Reviews.


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Convenient Pick-Up and Drop-Off Options

At CCT Sri Lanka, we prioritise your comfort and convenience with our flexible pick-up and drop-off services. Our team of service-oriented drivers is registered with the Sri Lanka Tourist Board, ensuring you receive the highest standard of professionalism and care.

Our Services Include:

  • Airport Pick-Up: Arrive with ease as we provide reliable transportation from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) or Palali International Airport (JAF). Start your journey smoothly and stress-free.
  • Hotel Pick-Up: Already arrived? We’ll pick you up directly from your hotel or any other location, tailored to your schedule.
  • Customizable Drop-Off: Whether you’re returning to the airport or heading to another destination, we’ll arrange a drop-off location that suits your needs.

Let us take care of the logistics while you focus on enjoying your adventure in Sri Lanka. To reserve your vehicle, select your date from the drop-down menu for your destination or contact us directly for personalised assistance. Experience the difference of exceptional service with CCT Sri Lanka.

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Gal Oya National Park – Swimming Elephants Boat Safari

From: 38$

At Gal Oya National Park, witness the remarkable spectacle of elephants swimming gracefully across the expansive reservoir, which stretches up to 2 kilometers wide. This enchanting behavior is a rare sight in Sri Lanka, making Gal Oya one of the few places where you can observe these majestic creatures in their natural element …
(updated on : 16 Apr 2024)