I feel intimidated in rainforests or jungles. I rather be in mountains and big open spaces. But I feel fascinated about rainforests, as there is a sense of mystery in every step you take. It can be the sound of a bird high in the tree canopy or the delicate wing-beat of a butterfly. It can be a millipede walking on a trunk, a lizard peeping from a tree, a snake sliding on the road, a monkey jumping from branch to branch, or one of the many other small animals that inhabit such a rich environment. And there are the plants, from huge trees with their intricate roots to small orchids, to beautiful ferns. What fascinates me is that all this is there but you have to look for it. It is challenging and can be frustrating, but it is very rewarding. Welcome to our Sinharaja Forest Photo Essay.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve (translated as Lion Kingdom) is a lowland rainforest located in the south-west of Sri Lanka, in the transition between the wet zone and the hilly zone. It is a biodiversity hotspot for the incredible number of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Because of this, UNESCO designated it a World Biosphere Reserve in 1978 and a World Heritage Site in 1988.
We visited Sinharaja Forest with Pali from Sinharaja Rest in Deniyaya. He showed us the forest and explained everything from geology, fauna, flora, funny stories, etc. We even had time for a refreshing swim on a beautiful waterfall. He is not only an amazing guide with great scouting skills and nature knowledge but he is also a great man, full of joy and energy. We are grateful to visit this amazing reserve with Pali, this Sinharaja Forest Photo Essay wouldn't be possible otherwise.
Beautiful pictures! Thank you for posting in English. Very relaxing to read about your adventures.
Thank you so much for your good words! So many people asked if we could send some information, so we are doing our best to keep everyone posted.
These pictures are taken mainly by my boyfriend who enjoyed the National park so much that he wanted to show it to others.