Embilipitiya to Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Embilipitiya to Sinharaja Forest Reserve

The Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a national park and a biodiversity hotspot in Sri Lanka. It is one of the most important rainforests in the world and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Language

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can exchange currency at banks, hotels, and currency exchange offices.

Distance

The distance from Embilipitiya to Sinharaja Forest Reserve is approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Sinharaja Forest Reserve from Embilipitiya.

• By bus: There are several buses that run from Embilipitiya to Sinharaja Forest Reserve. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.
• By train: There are no direct trains from Embilipitiya to Sinharaja Forest Reserve. However, you can take a train from Embilipitiya to Galle and then take a bus to Sinharaja Forest Reserve.
• By car: You can rent a car from Embilipitiya and drive to Sinharaja Forest Reserve. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from Embilipitiya to Sinharaja Forest Reserve will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose.

• By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Embilipitiya to Sinharaja Forest Reserve is approximately LKR 200 (USD 1).
• By train: The cost of a train ticket from Embilipitiya to Galle is approximately LKR 150 (USD 0.75). The cost of a bus ticket from Galle to Sinharaja Forest Reserve is approximately LKR 100 (USD 0.50).
• By car: The cost of renting a car from Embilipitiya is approximately LKR 2,500 (USD 12.50) per day. The cost of petrol is approximately LKR 150 (USD 0.75) per liter.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Sinharaja Forest Reserve is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the trails are easy to navigate.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and cafes in Sinharaja Forest Reserve where you can buy food and drinks.

• Rice and curry: Rice and curry is the national dish of Sri Lanka. It is a delicious and affordable meal that is available at most restaurants.
• Kottu roti: Kottu roti is a Sri Lankan street food that is made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat. It is a flavorful and filling meal that is perfect for a quick bite.
• Hoppers: Hoppers are a Sri Lankan breakfast food that is made from fermented rice batter. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Where to Go

In addition to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, there are several other places in the area that are worth visiting.

• Galle Fort: Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located on the coast of Sri Lanka. It is a beautiful and historic fortress that is a popular tourist destination.
• Unawatuna Beach: Unawatuna Beach is a beautiful beach that is located near Galle Fort. It is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
• Yala National Park: Yala National Park is a national park that is located in the southeast of Sri Lanka. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles.

FAQ

Can I visit Sinharaja Forest Reserve on my own?

Yes, you can visit Sinharaja Forest Reserve on your own. However, it is recommended to hire a guide if you want to make the most of your visit.

What are the entrance fees for Sinharaja Forest Reserve?

The entrance fee for Sinharaja Forest Reserve is LKR 500 (USD 2.50) for foreign visitors and LKR 100 (USD 0.50) for Sri Lankan citizens.

What should I wear when visiting Sinharaja Forest Reserve?

It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes when visiting Sinharaja Forest Reserve. It is also a good idea to bring a hat and sunscreen.