Have you ever dreamed of walking through a real jungle – full of rare birds, giant trees, and peaceful rivers?
If yes, Sinharaja Rain Forest is calling you!
Located in the southwest of Sri Lanka, Sinharaja is the country’s last remaining stretch of primary tropical rainforest, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. This forest is famous for its rich biodiversity, rare species, and mystical beauty.
🛤️ Trip Begins – Through Waddagala Entrance
We started our journey from Ratnapura, entering Sinharaja through the Waddagala entrance. On our first day, we stayed at the Kudawa Forest Circuit Bungalow, a peaceful government-run guesthouse that can be booked through the Department of Forest Conservation in Battaramulla.
🏡 Kudawa Circuit Bungalow – Simple, Comfortable, and Scenic
The bungalow is located next to a crystal-clear stream, perfect for a relaxing bath in nature. It’s a budget-friendly place with all the basic facilities. A friendly chef is available, and you only need to bring the ingredients. He’ll prepare delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
🛏️ More Places to Stay Near Sinharaja
The Department of Forest Conservation manages several circuit bungalows in the Sinharaja area. Some of these are located just outside the forest, while a few are located inside the forest gates themselves. Before booking, it’s a good idea to check with the Forest Department’s Circuit Bungalow Booking Office for availability and exact locations.
👉 One special place to remember is Vihanga Kadalla Circuit Bungalow, which is located inside the rainforest itself, offering a more immersive nature experience.
In addition to government-run bungalows, there’s also a private guesthouse inside the forest called Martin’s Lodge. It’s a simple but charming place for nature lovers who want to stay deep inside the forest.
🚗 Important note: Vehicles can only reach up to the main forest entrance and the nearby government bungalows.
If you book Martin’s Lodge, you’ll need to carry your bags by hand along a forest path to get there. So, pack light and be ready for a little walk through nature!
🚗 Parking & Facilities at the Main Entrance
The main entrance at Kudawa has a large car park, suitable even for big tour buses. So don’t worry if you’re coming with a group or in a large vehicle — there’s plenty of space.
🌳 Into the Rainforest – The Real Adventure Begins
On the second day, we entered Sinharaja through the Doranalla entrance. Before starting, you must select a trail and inform your licensed forest guide, who will explain everything you see along the way.
🥾 Popular Hiking Trails in Sinharaja:
- Mulawella – 4.1 km
- Halmandiya Dola – 4.2 km
- Giant Nawada Tree – 3.6 km (our trail)
- Wathurawa Access Road – 3.4 km
- Sinhagala – 11 km (most challenging)
- Gallenyaya – 6 km
🔔 If you plan to take the Sinhagala Trail, arrive the day before and book your guide early. It’s a 22 km round trip, so start early in the morning.
We chose the Giant Nawada Tree trail, which is the most common and has a moderate hike. Walking under giant green trees, listening to birds, and feeling the fresh air – it’s a magical experience you can’t describe in words.
🦜 Wildlife and Nature – A Living Classroom
Sinharaja is home to:
- 95% of Sri Lanka’s endemic birds, including the Sri Lanka blue magpie, red-faced malkoha, and green-billed coucal
- Endemic reptiles like the green pit viper
- Colourful butterflies like the Sri Lankan birdwing
- Mysterious tree frogs, leeches, and hundreds of rare plants
You may not see large animals easily because of the thick forest, but the whole place is alive with sounds and colours.
🐘 A Word of Caution – Wild Elephants in Sinharaja
While Sinharaja is known for its peaceful beauty and rare species, it’s also home to two very large wild elephants. These elephants are rarely seen, but they have been known to be aggressive, and unfortunately, there have been incidents of attacks on villagers in the past.
⚠️ Safety Tip:
- Always stay with your official guide inside the forest.
- Avoid wandering off alone, especially in deep forest areas.
- Follow all instructions given by the forest department staff.
Sinharaja is wild and untouched — which is part of its charm — but it also means you must respect nature and stay alert at all times.
🧪 A Stop at the Sinharaja Research Centre
We also visited the Sinharaja Research Centre, a quiet and informative place still in operation. It’s worth stopping by to learn more about the forest’s history and ongoing conservation efforts.
⚠️ Important Notes for Visitors
- Do not take anything from the forest – even a single flower.
- Do not damage any plant or tree.
- Drones are strictly not allowed.
- Stay quiet and do not shout – respect the animals and other visitors.
🧴 How to Protect Yourself from Leeches
Sinharaja is a rainforest — so yes, leeches are common, especially after rain. But don’t worry! Here are some handy tips:
- Leech socks are available at the entrance, but they can be a bit pricey.
- You can also visit a local shop in the Kudawa area and ask for leech-protective soap — it’s cheaper and effective.
- Or, try my personal method! I always prepare a natural leech repellent by mixing:
🧴 Dettol + 🌿 Citronella oil (Pagiri thel) in 1:1 ratio
Just apply it to your legs, shoes, and socks before entering the forest.
This homemade mix works well and keeps the leeches away — a simple and cost-effective solution for your hike!
💦 Final Stop – Refresh at Duwili Ella Waterfall
After exiting the forest, we headed to Duwili Ella, a beautiful and safe waterfall in the Sinharaja area. A perfect place to relax and take a fresh bath after your hike.
🌿 Why You Should Visit Sinharaja
Sinharaja is not just a forest. It’s a living, breathing world full of wonder, peace, and mystery. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone looking to reconnect with nature, this place will stay in your heart forever.
So, pack your bags, grab your hiking shoes, and let Sinharaja show you the wild side of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
📚 Want to Learn More?
If you’re curious to learn more about the global importance of Sinharaja Rain Forest, check out the official UNESCO World Heritage listing:
🔗 Sinharaja Forest Reserve – UNESCO World Heritage Site
This page includes detailed information about Sinharaja’s biodiversity, conservation status, and why it’s recognised as a world treasure.
