Gampola to Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Gampola to Sinharaja Forest Reserve

The Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a national park and a biodiversity hotspot in Sri Lanka. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endemic species. The forest is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gampola is a town in central Sri Lanka. It is located approximately 100 kilometers from the Sinharaja Forest Reserve.

Language

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. English is also widely spoken.

Currency

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).

Distance

The distance between Gampola and the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is approximately 100 kilometers.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach the Sinharaja Forest Reserve from Gampola.

• By car: The drive from Gampola to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve takes approximately 2 hours.
• By bus: There are several buses that run from Gampola to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
• By train: There are no trains that run directly to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. However, you can take a train from Gampola to Colombo and then transfer to a bus to the forest reserve.

Expenses

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

• By car: The cost of petrol will vary depending on the distance you travel and the type of car you drive.
• By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Gampola to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is approximately LKR 200.
• By train: The cost of a train ticket from Gampola to Colombo is approximately LKR 100. The cost of a bus ticket from Colombo to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is approximately LKR 150.

Best time to go

The best time to visit the 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 a variety of restaurants and cafes located near the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. You can find a variety of Sri Lankan and international cuisine.

Where to Go

There are a number of things to see and do in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve.

• Visit the Sinharaja Forest Museum: The museum provides an overview of the forest's history, ecology, and biodiversity.
• Go on a guided hike: There are a number of guided hikes available in the forest reserve. These hikes range from easy to challenging.
• Visit the waterfalls: There are several waterfalls located in the forest reserve. These waterfalls are a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
• Go birdwatching: The Sinharaja Forest Reserve is home to a variety of birds. You can go birdwatching on your own or with a guide.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Sinharaja Forest Reserve.

• Is the Sinharaja Forest Reserve safe?
• Yes, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is safe to visit. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions against theft.
• What should I wear when visiting the Sinharaja Forest Reserve?
• You should wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for hiking. You should also bring a raincoat, as the weather can change quickly in the forest.
• Can I camp in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve?
• Yes, you can camp in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. However, you must obtain a permit from the forest department.