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Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Kudawa Entrance — Ratnapura
Cover photo: Sadeep Jayashankha (Unsplash)
- District
- Ratnapura
- Province
- Sabaragamuwa
- Best for
- Birders and rainforest lovers; guided walks among endemic birds and trees
About this place
UNESCO World Heritage lowland rainforest, entered from the Ratnapura side via the Kudawa gate past Kalawana. Take a morning guided walk of 3-4 hours to see endemic birds, mixed feeding flocks, lizards and giant trees. Best January to April and August to September; foreign entry around USD 10-15 plus guide fee, and agree the guide price in writing after reported tout problems at some gates.
Visitor brief
Good to know before you go
- A licensed guide is effectively required - agree the guide fee in writing before entering; touting at gates is reported.
- Leeches are everywhere, especially after rain - wear long socks/leech socks, repellent and check legs regularly.
- Best birding January-April and August-September; morning 3-4 hr walks give the mixed-feeding-flock spectacle.
- No vehicles inside - carry rain gear, water and snacks; trails are slippery and phone signal is weak.
How to travel there
Via Ratnapura to Kalawana, then bus/tuk-tuk to Kudawa village and a short uphill walk to the gate. Private car or arranged tour is far easier than the multi-bus chain.
Where to stay
Kudawa/Kalawana rainforest lodges and homestays; Ratnapura town hotels for a day trip.
Nearby places
Kalawana town, Weddagala village, Pitadeniya entrance (Deniyaya side), Ratnapura town and gem mines
Scams to watch for
- Unofficial guides and touts at/around gates quoting inflated guiding or ticket fees - use the official ticket counter and agree guide prices in writing.
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