Gal Oya National Park

Out in Eastern Sri Lanka and away from mainstream tourist itineraries, the underrated Gal Oya National park is a real gem of a nature reserve, and a lot less crowded than other national parks in the country. Unlike other reserves, wildlife safaris here are done by boat, so it’s a serene experience and a less bumpy ride than driving around in jeeps. There's a staggering array of wildlife to spot here as Gal Oya is home to some of the richest biodiversity in this part of the world. You’re quite likely to see wild elephants and perhaps the occasional leopard.

Luckily out here in the wilderness, in all this utter peace and tranquillity, there is a fabulous place to stay. The Gal Oya Lodge is a beautiful eco-lodge spread over 20 acres of jungle, with the indigenous forest-dwelling Vedda people as your only neighbours.