Sinharaja Rainforest

Sinharaja Rainforest

Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Sri Lanka's last viable area of primary tropical rainforest spanning over 11,187 hectares.

Native Flora

Sinharaja hosts over 60% of Sri Lanka's endemic trees, including the rare Stemonoporus (Dipterocarpaceae family). Notable species include Shorea worthingtonii (endemic), Mesua ferrea (Iron wood), Dipterocarpus zeylanicus (Hora), and Diospyros quaesita (Calamander). The forest canopy reaches heights of up to 45m, creating distinct layers of vegetation.

Wildlife

The forest harbors 95% of Sri Lanka's endemic birds including the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Red-faced Malkoha, and Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill. Other notable species include the purple-faced langur, endemic freshwater fish species, and over 50% of Sri Lanka's endemic mammals and butterflies. The forest is also home to rare amphibians like the golden-webbed tree frog.

Visitor Guide

Key attractions include the Sinharaja Research Station Trail, Morning Side Peak, and the Kudawa Conservation Center. The park offers guided nature trails, canopy walkways, and birdwatching towers. Visit the Giant Nawada Tree, centuries-old and standing at over 50m tall.