Being a UNESCO world heritage site, Sinharaja Forest reserve is one of the top attractions in Sri Lanka among nature lovers. With rich biodiversity, the tropical lowland rainforest spans across an area of 18900 acres. Bounded by rivers on three sides, the forest is known for bird watching, trekking and eco-tours. The small footpaths that lie across the forest will show you the rich greenery including giant trees and crystal-clear water streams with ice-cold water. The forest is home to Giant squirrels, dusky-stripped jungle squirrels, badger mongooses and endemic purple-faced leaf monkeys, Layard’s parakeets, the Jungle fowls, the Spurfowls, the Ceylon Wood Pigeons, the Brown-capped Babblers and so much more.
One of the best ways to experience Sinharaja is to hike along the dense jungle trails with a guide who has significant experience. The hikes allow you to explore the dense foliage, large trees, streams, and wildlife and gain information about the forest's ecology. Hiking here offers something for everyone, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Sinharaja is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 150 species of birds of which 33 are endemics. Among them, some of the top highlights include Sri Lanka blue magpie, green-billed coucal, red-faced malkoha, and jungle fowl. Birding tours at sunrise offer the best chances to spot rare and colorful birds in their natural habitat.
