Things to Do in Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Sinharaja rainforest, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s most famous rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in endemic plants, birds and wildlife.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is Sri Lanka’s most famous tropical rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the south-western part of the island, Sinharaja is renowned for its rich biodiversity, dense rainforest, endemic plants and wildlife. The forest offers visitors an opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s natural environment through guided walks, bird watching and rainforest exploration.

Why visit Sinharaja?

Sinharaja is ideal for travelers who want to experience Sri Lanka’s biodiversity, rainforest environment and endemic wildlife. Unlike the country’s historic cities and cultural sites, Sinharaja provides an immersive experience in one of Sri Lanka’s most important natural ecosystems.

Our Nature & Wildlife tour includes a guided walk here — or send us your dates to add it to any route.

Before you go: our Sri Lanka travel instructions cover safari and wildlife safety and weather and what to pack.

Things to do

  • Explore the lush Sinharaja Rainforest on guided nature trails.
  • Enjoy bird watching and discover Sri Lanka’s endemic bird species.
  • Look for unique rainforest wildlife, butterflies and reptiles.
  • Experience the dense tropical vegetation and natural waterfalls.
  • Enjoy hiking and photography surrounded by untouched forest.
  • Learn about the importance of rainforest conservation.
  • Experience local village and traditional lifestyles around the forest.

Tours that include this destination

Planning a visit?

Tell us your dates and how many are travelling, and we will send you a plan and price for a trip that includes this place.

Before you travelVisa, packing, safety and local tips for your Sri Lanka trip

Quick facts

Best time: January to April and August to September (drier spells in a rainforest)
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Languages: Sinhala, Tamil and English
Religion: Mainly Buddhist, with Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities
Timezone: GMT+5:30 (Sri Lanka Standard Time)