Sinharaja

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

A Biodiversity Haven in Sri Lanka’s Rainforest

Nestled in the southwest of Sri Lanka, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is the last remaining primary tropical rainforest in the country, covering an expansive 36,000 hectares. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is considered one of the world’s most important ecological hotspots.

The forest reserve is home to an incredible variety of endemic flora and fauna, many of which cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. From towering trees and vibrant insects to unique amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and over 20 species of endemic birds, Sinharaja offers a natural treasure trove for wildlife photographers.

Birdwatchers will be especially drawn to its diverse avian population, including the striking Sri Lanka blue magpie, the elusive Serendib scops owl, and the beautiful Red-faced malkoha. Other endemic species like the Sri Lanka thrush, Sri Lanka wood pigeon, and Sri Lanka jungle fowl can also be found throughout the forest.

With its dense, regenerating rainforest, Sinharaja provides a rich and untouched backdrop for capturing wildlife in its natural habitat. The reserve is accessible year-round, making it an ideal destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka’s vibrant biodiversity.

Endemic birds – Red faced malkoha, sri lanka drongo, sri lanka thrush, sri lanka spurfowl, sri lanka jungle fowl, sri lanka wood pigeon, Black capped bulbul, sri lanka scimitar babbler, orange billed babbler, brown capped babbler, ashy headed laughingthrush, sri lanka gray hornbill, yellow fronted barbet, crimson fronted barbet, white throated flowerpecker, crimson backed flameback woodpecker, red back flameback woodpecker, sri lanka green pigeon, sri lanka myna, sri lanka blue magpie, spot winged thrush, green billed coucal, layards parakeet, sri lanka hanging parrot, serendib scops owl, chestnut backed owlet,white faced starling,sri lanka swallow