Night Walk for Slender Lorises at Sam Popham's Arboretum, Sigiriya
Experience a slow, attentive night walk at Sam Popham’s Arboretum near Sigiriya to find the rare slender loris. Expert naturalists use red-light torches and quiet tracking techniques to maximize sightings while minimizing disturbance.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a red-filter headlamp
Red light reduces stress for nocturnal species and preserves night vision — guides use red lights for searching.
Wear long sleeves and sturdy shoes
Trails can be uneven and vegetation scratchy; long sleeves also reduce insect bites after dark.
Keep noise to a minimum
Lorises are sensitive to sound; quiet voices and single-file walking increase chances of sightings.
Expect cancellations in heavy rain
Walks are often canceled for safety and animal welfare during monsoon downpours — confirm before traveling.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Dragonfly ponds inside the arboretum — excellent for daytime macro photography
- •Early-morning birding at the nearby irrigation tanks for kingfishers and wagtails
Wildlife
- •slender loris
- •civet cat
Conservation Note
Nocturnal species here are sensitive to light and disturbance; tours use red lights and strict quiet policies to minimize impact and protect habitat.
Sam Popham, a British naval officer, established the original seven-acre arboretum and later gifted the expanded 34-acre collection to the Institute of Fundamental Studies.
What to Bring
Headlamp with red filterEssential
Allows you to see without disturbing lorises and keeps your hands free for balance.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provide traction on damp, rooty forest paths common in the arboretum.
Long-sleeve shirt and pantsEssential
Protects against scratches and insect bites during a night hike.
DEET or picaridin insect repellentEssential
Reduces nuisance bites during warm, humid evenings when mosquitoes are most active.
Common Questions
How long is the walk and what time does it start?
The activity is approximately 3 hours and typically starts after dusk; check confirmation for the exact meeting time as it changes with sunset.
Are loris sightings guaranteed?
No — sightings depend on animal movement and weather, but experienced naturalists and focused search techniques improve chances significantly.
Is the walk suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Children who can walk steadily on uneven ground may join; the tour is not recommended for those with serious mobility limitations or cardiovascular issues.
Is transportation provided from Sigiriya?
Pickup options vary — the tour lists pickup point questions during booking, so confirm transportation arrangements when you reserve.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Sigiriya, Central Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required — comfortable walking on uneven, low-light trails for up to three hours.
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