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We are a team of passionate young individuals who love exploring the marvels of the Sinharaja Rainforest. All our team members come from communities that have lived in the villages on the outskirts of the forest for generations. With their extensive training and experience, our guides ensure safe and enriching tours through the forest, helping you spot rare flora and fauna, including birds, reptiles, and insects.
Our specialized bird guides are particularly skilled at identifying and locating rare bird species, as well as reptiles and insects. We take great pride in our work, and it brings us joy to share the beauty of the forest with our guests.
Our vision is to develop our passion into offering a unique and enjoyable rainforest experience for people of all ages, providing an immersive connection with nature amidst kind, compassionate, and welcoming hospitality.
Welcome to the remarkable world of Sinharaja Forest, a breathtaking tropical rainforest nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning 11,187 hectares, offers an unparalleled experience, immersing visitors in a lush, pristine ecosystem teeming with life. Sinharaja Forest, meaning “Lion Kingdom” in Sinhalese, is one of the last remaining expanses of virgin rainforest on the island, showcasing incredible biodiversity with numerous endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Wander through its dense canopy of towering trees, vibrant birds like the Sri Lankan blue magpie, and elusive wildlife such as the Sri Lankan leopard, creating an enchanting symphony of sights and sounds.
For nature lovers, Sinharaja is a paradise waiting to be explored. The reserve offers an extensive network of trails for awe-inspiring hikes and wildlife encounters, guided by experts who share their knowledge about the delicate balance of this fragile ecosystem. Several eco-lodges and guesthouses blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, allowing you to wake up to birdcalls and immerse yourself in the forest’s tranquility. Embracing sustainable practices, these accommodations contribute to preserving this unique habitat while offering a breathtaking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer, wildlife enthusiast, or seeking solace in nature, Sinharaja Forest offers an extraordinary journey of discovery.
Our specialized bird guides are particularly skilled at identifying and locating rare bird species, as well as reptiles and insects. We take great pride in our work, and it brings us joy to share the beauty of the forest with our guests.
Our vision is to develop our passion into offering a unique and enjoyable rainforest experience for people of all ages, providing an immersive connection with nature amidst kind, compassionate, and welcoming hospitality.
Sinharaja Rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the last remaining undisturbed lowland rainforests in the country and is renowned for its rich flora and fauna. The flora in Sinharaja Rainforest is incredibly diverse and plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of this unique ecosystem.
Each layer of the forest, the total vegetation density, including trees, shrubs, herbs and seedlings has been estimated to be around 240,000 individuals per hectare, of which 95% comprise individuals of the ground layer bellow 1m in height. The density of trees, lianas above 30 cm girth at breast height, ranges between 600 – 700 individuals per hectare while the number of merchantable individuals of trees of girth greater than 150 cm ranges between 45-55 individuals per hectare.
Canopy Trees : The rainforest’s canopy is dominated by tall and majestic trees that form a dense green roof above the forest floor. Average height of the trees varies between 35m – 40m while some rise even up to 50m. Some of the prominent canopy trees in Sinharaja include Dipterocarpus zeylanicus, Shorea stipularis, and Mesua thwaitesii. These towering giants provide a habitat for numerous animal species and help in capturing sunlight for photosynthesis.
Understory Plants : Beneath the canopy, you’ll find a dense layer of smaller trees, shrubs, and plants known as the understory. Many of these plants have adapted to low light conditions and provide important resources for various animals. Species such as Dillenia pentagyna, Sarcostemma acidum, and Lasianthus distichus are common in this layer.
Epiphytes : Sinharaja Rainforest is famous for its abundance of epiphytes, which are plants that grow on other plants without being parasitic. Orchids, ferns, and mosses are common epiphytes found here. The diverse range of epiphytes adds to the visual beauty of the forest and provides microhabitats for numerous creatures.
Sinharaja Rainforest, is home to an impressive variety of bird species. The forest’s lush canopy, understory, and diverse habitats provide an ideal environment for a wide range of avian residents, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and ornithologists alike. Here are some of the notable birds you might encounter in Sinharaja
Sri Lanka Blue Magpie (Urocissa ornata): One of the most striking birds found in Sinharaja is the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie. This bird sports a stunning combination of blue, white, and black plumage, with long tail feathers that add to its beauty. The blue magpie is an endemic species, meaning it is unique to Sri Lanka.
Red-faced Malkoha (Phaenicophaeus pyrrhocephalus): This elusive bird is a member of the cuckoo family and is known for its distinct red facial markings. The red-faced malkoha is an arboreal species, often seen hopping through the canopy and feeding on insects, caterpillars, and small fruits.
Sri Lanka Junglefowl (Gallus lafayetii): As the national bird of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka junglefowl is a significant species in Sinharaja Rainforest. It is the wild ancestor of the domestic chicken and can be identified by its vibrant and colorful plumage, with males displaying more vibrant hues. Green-billed Coucal (Centropus chlororhynchos): The green-billed coucal is a large, ground-dwelling bird known for its distinctive greenish bill and reddish eyes. It prefers the undergrowth and thickets of the forest and is well-camouflaged among the vegetation.
Sinharaja Rainforest is a haven for countless insect species. Insects play a vital role in the rainforest ecosystem, contributing to pollination, decomposition, and providing a crucial food source for various other animals. Here are some of the fascinating insects you might encounter in Sinharaja:
Butterflies and Moths: Sinharaja is home to a dazzling array of butterfly and moth species. The forest’s flowering plants provide abundant nectar sources, attracting a wide variety of butterflies such as the Common Rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae) and the Sri Lanka Birdwing (Troides darsius). Moths, including large and colorful species, are also abundant, adding to the visual splendor of the forest.
Dragonflies and Damselflies: The forest’s streams and water bodies host numerous dragonfly and damselfly species. These beautiful and agile insects can be seen darting over the water, preying on smaller insects or engaging in courtship displays.
Beyond the dense, mystical canopy of the Sinharaja Rainforest lies a world of cultural richness and traditional charm. The villages surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site offer a unique glimpse into rural Sri Lankan life, where time-honored customs and nature exist in perfect harmony. Our guided day and night village tours provide an immersive experience, connecting you with the vibrant local communities and their way of life.
Within this enchanting forest, numerous waterfalls cascade down from rocky heights, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors and showcases the raw beauty of nature. Five waterfalls are located within less than 2 km from the Lankagama Forest Office. It takes 3 to 5 hours to hike across these waterfalls. Don’t forget to enjoy a swim at the waterfalls.
Sinharaja Rainforest is not only rich in bird and plant diversity but also hosts a wide array of reptile and insect species. The humid and dense forest environment provides an ideal habitat for many reptiles, including snakes and lizards, as well as many insects.
Sinharaja offers several trails catering to different levels of hiking expertise. From leisurely walks to challenging treks, each path unveils the rainforest's secrets—from cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear streams to hidden groves and panoramic viewpoints.
Sinharaja Rainforest is a birdwatcher's delight. It is rich in bird life, with an impressive 147 species recorded to date. It is also the only location where 21 out of 26 bird species endemic to Sri Lanka can be viewed.
Explore the fringes of the rainforest with a knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the medicinal plants and herbs used in traditional Ayurveda. Discover hidden streams and enjoy the serenity of nature as you walk through the verdant landscape
Our team comprises seasoned nature enthusiasts, experienced guides, and local experts who have an intimate knowledge of Sinharaja Forest. Their passion and expertise ensure that you get the most informative and enriching experience.
We offer authentic and immersive experiences that allow you to connect deeply with nature. From guided hikes to wildlife spotting, each activity is designed to bring you closer to the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of Sinharaja Forest.
We are committed to preserving the pristine environment of Sinharaja Forest. Our eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism initiatives ensure that your visit has a minimal impact on the ecosystem while supporting conservation efforts.
Mederipitiya 81500, Sri Lanka
sinharajawonderers@gmail.com
+94 70 598 9717
