In Sri Lanka’s southwest lowland wet zone, there is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a declared Biosphere Reserve called the Sinharaja Rainforest. Although it wasn’t officially recognized as a forest reserve until 1875, the area has long held mythological and historical significance for the Sri Lankan people. The only remaining tropical rainforest in Sri Lanka, Sinharaja, which translates literally as “Lion and King,” is home to 60 indigenous trees. More than half of Sri Lanka’s endemic species of animals, butterflies, reptiles, unusual amphibians, and insects may be found there. The incredible richness of life that visitors to Sinharaja discover when visiting this biodiversity hotspot never fails to surprise them. Just a few of the unusual creatures and flora that may be found here include a spineless forest lizard, a Sri Lankan rose, and a bamboo orchid.