Sinharaja Rain Forest, Sri Lanka

Lovers of hiking in rainforests will definitely appreciate Sinharaja Forest Reserve, located in Sri Lanka. Established in 1978, the reserve is now famous for its variety of exotic plant species, many of which one cannot see anywhere else. The same can be said about the animals. In the jungle, one can meet the rare Ceylon starling, azure magpie, beautiful pythons and leopards as well as Indian elephants.

The reserve’s name translates as ‘Lion Kingdom’as it is formed by the junction of the two words ‘Sinha’(Lion) and ‘Raja’ (King) and is very symbolic. The natives believe that thousands of years ago a powerful race of people-lions lived in thick jungles. Many experienced travellers know Sinharaja under a different name - ‘Wet Forest’. Frequent rainfall is a usual thing here, so a raincoat and closed clothing would be a good idea.

Although the reserve area is relatively small and is only 480 square kilometres, it is the world’s most interesting and valuable one. Visits to the jungle should definitely be guided, as local guides know a lot of beautiful paths and can lead the group to the top of one of the mountains in the shortest possible time. Closed and tight clothing must be a priority. Tropical rainforest is the habitat for rare species of leeches ‘Blue Eagle’, contact with which may result in the most unpleasant part of the tour. Next - Fiordland National Park