Arrive at Blue Magpie Lodge in Sinharaja (Weddagala Side) and check in at your room. You will meet your birding guide at the hotel lobby around 2.30pm and start 1.3km walk from the hotel to the Entrance Gate.
Sinharaja rainforest has been designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and also a Biodiversity Hotspot by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). All these titles are highlighting the importance of the forest reserve in terms of its exceptional biodiversity as well as its fragility. Birding in Sinharaja is particularly interesting since it is home to 95% of the endemic birds of Sri Lanka!
From the calls of birds and the rumbling noise of the water streams to the fresh air filtered by its ancient trees, the colourful species of frogs and the bright flowers, Sinharaja leaves you in awe of nature and how species have evolved to suit the environment. It is said that in Sinharaja one square mile may have higher biodiversity than the entire North American continent. Most importantly, this area has a high concentration of endemic species. 20 out of Sri Lanka's 26 endemic bird species, including the Sri Lanka blue magpie and the green-billed coucal, are found in Sinharaja. In addition, it is home to several species of reptiles, such as green-pit and hump-nosed vipers, and some rare species of horned lizards. Also, a few elephants and leopards and many smaller mammals including the rusty spotted cat, purple-faced leaf monkey, fishing cat, mongooses and civets inhabit the forests of Sinharaja.
While bird watching in Sinharaja, you will have opportunities to relax and indulge in once-in-a-lifetime photography.
After 3 hours trekking, you will be back at the entrance finishing the trail and further 1.3km walk will take you back at your hotel for enjoying the dinner and overnight stay.
