Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Sri Lanka · Sabaragamuwa Province · 600 m
Description
Sinharaja Forest Reserve (සිංහරාජ) is Sri Lanka’s largest contiguous area of primary tropical lowland rainforest and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. The evergreen forest is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and high proportion of endemic plants and animals. More than 60 percent of its tree species are endemic, while numerous rare birds, including the Sri Lanka blue magpie, are among its characteristic inhabitants. A dense network of streams and waterways runs through a lush landscape of towering trees, ferns and vines. Sinharaja is one of the island’s most important natural areas and offers an impressive glimpse into one of Sri Lanka’s last remaining extensive tracts of primary rainforest.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: January – March
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve rainforest trek
- Endemic bird watching
- Sinharaja primary rainforest and endemic flora
- Moulawella Peak viewpoint hike
- Sinharaja waterfalls and forest streams
- Endemic wildlife spotting
- Kudawa entrance and visitor centre
- Pitadeniya rainforest trails
- Sinhagala trail
- Morningside rainforest and bird-watching trails
- Reptile and amphibian spotting
- Butterfly watching