In the south-west of Sri Lanka deep within the wet zone lies a difficult to access remnant of the once extensive Sri Lankan rain forest called Sinharaja. This unique habitat is a biodiversity hotspot containing many endemic species of plant and animal. Some of these plants trace their ancestry back to Gondwanaland sharing an affinity with African flora though others, particularly the Dipterocarps, reflect a south-east Asian origin.
Sinharaja is a treasure-trove of butterflies, dragonflies, bugs and endemic birds but accessing the reserve involves a long and difficult drive requiring a high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle. It is not feasible to make this trip twice daily so the only viable option is to stay in the only lodge available in Sinharaja -Martin's Place. Martin is a local joiner and handyman who was the local "fixer" for visiting scientists. He has built a small and basic lodge which though only having basic amenities does have a compelling rustic charm. To savour Sinharaja a stay at Martin's place is almost compulsory!!!
Sinharaja does have a rather dark and troubling secret ....it is the leech capital of the world, you have been warned!

This gallery includes assorted images taken by myself, my wife and my two kids -Iain & Alice.