Sinharaja, the lion kingdom
Sri Lanka’s last great lowland rainforest: ancient, unbroken and alive with species found nowhere else on Earth.
An ancient, living rainforest
Sinharaja is the largest remaining area of primary lowland rainforest in Sri Lanka. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, it protects a forest of extraordinary richness: towering trees, clear streams and a wealth of endemic birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants.
Its name is often translated as “lion kingdom”. Today it is one of the most important places in Asia for birders and naturalists.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
lowland rainforest
of Sri Lanka’s endemic birds
rain and lush forest
The trees that make the forest
Sinharaja’s canopy is dominated by dipterocarps and other tall trees, many of them endemic. Below them grow palms, tree ferns, orchids and Sri Lanka’s only pitcher plant.
Beyond the birds
Visiting responsibly
- Enter the reserve with a registered guide
- Stay on trails and keep groups small and quiet
- Take nothing from the forest and leave no litter
- Do not feed, handle or disturb wildlife
- Carry water in reusable bottles
Rainforest conditions
Expect warm, humid days and rain at any time of year. Mornings are usually the clearest. Check the live conditions at Kudawa before you set out.
Come for the birds. Stay for the forest.
Tell us your dates, your target species and how you like to travel. We will reply with ideas, availability and a plan for your stay.