The Rainforest Ecolodge - Sinharaja with Shuttle Service from Car Park

We stayed for 3 nights and enjoyed our retreat into the rainforest. On Day 1 after a long slow drive, we weren’t prepared for the 10 km 4 wheel drive journey up from Deniyaya as well as the fairly functional standard of accommodation awaiting us within the repurposed shipping containers. On Day 2, after an early morning bird watching walk followed by hearty breakfast (sri lankan or western), we began to relax, taking in the amazing views from the lodge and looking forward to a further walk around the rainforest and listening to sounds all around. By Day 3, and after a 3 hour nature trek in the heart of the rainforest, we really understood what a gem this place is and learned and observed so much flora and fauna. Staff were all very kind and attentive including the nature guides who were knowledgeable and safety conscious. Meals in the most were good, breakfasts, soups & sandwiches especially. Some of the interpretations of western main course dishes were a little strange and management received our comments on this very positively. Sri Lankan options were consistently good. A programme of renovation of the container rooms is underway which will make them more comfortable but meanwhile staff have to balance this with the need to keep the lodge running which is very important. Recommendation stay more than one night & give yourself time to settle in, relax and enjoy the nature.

The hotel is situated high up in the rainforest. The accommodation is basic but clean and the food was satisfactory. However, the highlight for us was our fantastic nature guide Shantha. The afternoon we arrived he led us on a nearly 3 hour trek through the forest explaining its ecosystems and flora. He has vast knowledge and took his time to explain and took pains to seek confirmation that we had understood. He walked at a gentle pace eventually stopping at a plateau to view the rainforest around us, and to breathe the cleansing air. The following morning we went on a bird safari where he expertly spotted the birds hidden in the trees and showed us the best place to view them. We saw many species, some rarities as well as a giant squirrel and leaf monkeys. Shantha’s love and respect for nature shines through and I would highly recommend asking for him to be your guide if you are here.