Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Where Nature Thrives In Its Purest Form.
Southern, Sri Lanka
111.87 sqkm
Est.1978
About The Park
Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a forest reserve and a biodiversity hotspot in Sri Lanka. It is of international significance and has been designated a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
History & Heritage
Sinharaja Forest Reserve is Sri Lanka’s most important remaining area of primary tropical rainforest and was declared a forest reserve in 1875 before being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Located in the south-western lowland wet zone, Sinharaja represents a priceless natural heritage with exceptional biodiversity and a high level of endemic species. Historically protected due to its difficult terrain and dense vegetation, the forest escaped large-scale commercial logging, allowing it to retain much of its original ecological character. Today, Sinharaja stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s conservation legacy, reflecting centuries of coexistence between nature and surrounding traditional communities.
Geography & Climate
Sinharaja Forest Reserve lies in Sri Lanka’s south-western wet zone, covering parts of the Ratnapura, Galle, and Matara districts, with hilly terrain rising from about 300 to 1,170 meters. It is a vital watershed for rivers such as the Kalu, Gin, and Nilwala and experiences a humid tropical climate with heavy rainfall, stable temperatures, and high humidity that support dense evergreen rainforest and rich biodiversity.
Rich Ecosystems
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Rich Ecosystems
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Rich Ecosystems
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Rich Ecosystems
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Wildlife & Biodiversity
Discover the incredible variety of life that calls our park home. From majestic mammals to vibrant birdlife,
reptiles, and unique plant species.
Mammals
Leopard
Excellent climber, a big cat that reigns gracefully as the island’s most elusive predator.
Amphibian
Black Striped Frog
The black-striped frog is a Ranidae family frog found across several Asian countries, living in habitats up to about 800 meters above sea level.
Birds
Ceylon magpies
The Sri Lanka blue magpie is a colorful bird found only in Sri Lanka that lives in dense wet-zone forests and is vulnerable due to habitat loss
Reptile
Oriental Garden Lizard
The oriental garden lizard, eastern garden lizard or changeable lizard is an agamid lizard found widely distributed in Asia.
Reptile
Sinharaja Tree Snake
The Sinharaja tree snake is a rare, canopy-dwelling snake endemic to Sri Lanka’s lowland rainforests, distinguished by its unique coloration and lack of a postocular stripe.
Reptile
Green Pit Viper
The Sri Lankan green pit viper is a venomous, arboreal snake endemic to wet-zone forests, known for its green and black patterned body.
Visitor Information
Plan your perfect visit with all the essential information you need for an unforgettable experience
Open Hours
Opening Hours- daily from 6.00 A.M to 6.00 P.M
Morning Safari: Around 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Afternoon Safari: Around 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Annual Closure: Does not have a permanent annual closure it’s generally open year-round.
Entry Fees
Entrance Fee:
• Foreign Adults USD 15
• Foreign Children USD 8
• Locals (Adults) LKR 650
• Locals (Children) LKR 325
Accommodations
•Accommodation available only outside the park.
• Options include eco-lodges and nature stays. Popular choices include: Sinharaja Rainforest Lodge, Jetwing Eco Lodge.
• Note: Visitors must hire a licensed guide to enter the reserve, and some lodges can arrange transportation or guided tours inside the forest.
Experience & Activities
Immerse yourself in nature through a variety of adventures tailored for all interests and fitness levels.
Birds Watching
Waterfall Visits
Hiking & Wildlife Spotting
Gallery & Media
Explore stunning moments captured in the park – from breathtaking landscapes to intimate wildlife encounters.
Contact us
Get in touch with us for inquiries, or to learn more about how you can support our conservation efforts.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southwest Sri Lanka, is a dense evergreen rainforest rich in biodiversity, home to endemic birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals like the red slender loris, offering guided treks for an immersive wildlife experience.