Wildlife Photography in Gal Oya National Park: A Hidden Gem Behind the Lens

Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s lesser-explored east, Gal Oya National Park is a dream come true for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture wildlife in its most untouched form. While it’s not as famous as Yala or Wilpattu, Gal Oya’s raw beauty, sparse crowds, and unique landscapes make it one of the best-kept secrets for wildlife photography in the country.

What sets Gal Oya apart is its combination of forest, grassland, and the expansive Senanayake Samudraya Lake — Sri Lanka’s largest reservoir. This rich ecological mix provides a striking backdrop for photographers, especially during early morning and golden hour light. But the real highlight? It’s one of the very few places in Asia where you can photograph elephants swimming between islands.

We set out at dawn with a local tracker and boat guide, cameras ready. As the mist lifted off the lake, the jungle slowly came alive. In near silence, we glided across the water in a small motorboat, scanning the treeline and shoreline. And then — the moment we were hoping for. A herd of elephants emerged from the forest, pausing briefly before wading into the water. We were lucky to witness and photograph two young elephants swimming, their trunks raised like snorkels, glistening in the morning sun.

Aside from elephants, Gal Oya offers sightings of sambar deer, wild boar, mugger crocodiles, and over 150 species of birds. We captured vibrant shots of painted storks, grey-headed fish eagles, and even spotted a Malabar pied hornbill mid-flight. For macro and landscape enthusiasts, the lush forest trails offered excellent opportunities for close-ups of rare flora, butterflies, and fungi.

One of the best aspects of photographing in Gal Oya is the absence of crowds. Unlike busier parks, you rarely see another vehicle or boat during your shoot. This peaceful solitude not only improves the experience but allows for more intimate and uninterrupted wildlife encounters.

If you’re a photographer, consider staying at one of the nearby eco-lodges or safari camps — many of which can arrange boat safaris, guided treks, and village visits with a conservation focus. The guides are not only skilled in tracking wildlife but understand the needs of photographers, often positioning the boat or jeep for the perfect angle and light.

Gal Oya is wild, quiet, and photogenic in a way that’s hard to describe — you simply have to go and see (and shoot) it for yourself.