Gal Oya National Park

True, the animal residents are more elusive than in Yala National park or Uda Walawe but that doesn’t detract from the experience.

On the contrary, seeing a swimming elephant or watching a croc glide into the water is all the more exciting. And when it comes to birdlife,you are likely to see eagles, herons and storks along with a colourful array of kingfishers and thrushes.

And for those who relish the prospect of a first-hand encounter with a  genuine indigenous civilisation, the long road to Gal Oya is a must. On any cultural holiday in Sri Lanka, a meeting with the Vedda, one of the last communities of forest dwelling people, is a true highlight.

A walk through the ancient forest with the tribal chief has to count amongst the most evocative and spiritual encounters possible in Sri lanka. You can listen to fascinating stories about the tribe’s ancestors and how they have lived from the jungle for hundreds of years leading a hunter gatherer existence, foraging, hunting and using plants for medicinal use.

Surprisingly the Sri Lanka luxury hotel scene has not yet arrived in force in this safari holiday paradise. Instead, there is just one choice of accommodation for discerning travellers: Gal Oya Lodge, a fabulous boutique hotel surrounded by 20 acres of private reserve.