Wild Glamping Gal Oya - Thema Collection

This is a wonderful hidden gem. The tents are fantastic, loved the open air bathroom. The staff were all very friendly. Tulin was extreemly pleasant and service minded. The food was amazing and we could really tast that a lot of the ingredients were from their own back garden. We had a massage which was given in one of the small houses with with warm oils and flowers around. Top! Thank you guys! Elisabeth and Peter from Denmark

The most underrated places I have been to. The hotel was splendid and the staff were so friendly. The food was exceptional too. We got the chance to go on a walk in the forest and learn the ways of Danigala Veddhas. Quite a eeeee experience. In the afternoon we had a boat safari to spot the elephants in Gal Oya. Even though our ride was cut short due to rain we had the best time. The guides provided by the hotel are well-knowledged and reliable. Thank you for a great experience!

There’s a dozen or so large safari tents, each is pitched and secured to a traditional thatched wood structure. In our family tent there was a large double bed, and 2 single beds separated by a carved wooden screen. Out back is the outdoor loo and shower. They’re the nuts and bolts of it, but that description can’t do this place justice. The beds have crisp white sheets, freshly made every day. There’s aircon, a small fridge, dressing table and an outside Vera da to drink beer and watch the storm. In the central courtyard there’s a fantastic swimming pool to cool down in after exploring the local area. The on site restaurant and bar is a simple affair, but the food is incredible and the staff couldn’t be more welcoming. The food is very good, the portions are huge, but please try the Sri Lankan curry, 5 or 6 separate dishes, all amazing. Also try the chef’s cream of papaya soup, sounds unusual but it is delicious. We spotted mountain bikes out back (didn’t use them) but we did go on the trek guided by one of the indigenous chaps who are closely associated with this property. A couple of hours of really interesting conversations all translated by the in house sustainability tzar. There’s boat safaris near by and a chance to see crocodiles, elephants and water buffalo. If you’ve been in 4 and 5* hotels for a few days this is a lovely counter balance, you won’t regret it. But do bring ear plugs, the peacocks do like to rise early! Ps. There’s no gin and tonic on the bar menu, that’s my only criticism :)