Discover Sinharaja Rainforest - A UNESCO World Heritage Property
Located in the south-west lowland wet zone of Sri Lanka, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage property and the country’s last viable remnant of primary tropical lowland rainforest. Covering approximately 8,864 hectares, this remarkable rainforest is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and high level of endemism.
More than 60% of the trees are endemic to Sri Lanka, with at least 139 endemic plant species recorded within the reserve. Sinharaja is also an important sanctuary for Sri Lanka’s endemic wildlife. Of the country’s 34 endemic bird species, 19 are recorded in Sinharaja—approximately 56%. Its remarkable birdlife includes the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Green-billed Coucal, Red-faced Malkoha, Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Orange-billed Babbler and Ashy-headed Laughingthrush.
The forest also provides habitat for Purple-faced Langurs, Toque Macaques, Sri Lankan Giant Squirrels, leopards, Fishing Cats, Rusty-spotted Cats, Barking Deer and Red Slender Lorises. Its rich biodiversity extends to reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and insects, including the Sri Lanka Green Pit Viper, Kangaroo Lizard, endemic shrub frogs and Sri Lanka Birdwing.
With its extraordinary biodiversity, endemic species and ancient evolutionary heritage, Sinharaja offers nature lovers an unforgettable journey into one of Sri Lanka’s most precious natural treasures.