Sinharaja trail after overnight rain — leech socks and salt, or just tuck trousers and keep walking?

After rain, leeches are active on muddy edges. Long trousers tucked into socks or proper leech socks help more than courage. A small salt or soap dab makes one drop off — do not rip them and leave the mouthparts. Tobacco juice is an old field trick some locals still use; salt or antiseptic cream afterward is enough for most visitors. Closed shoes, not flip-flops. Stay on the trodden line where the guide walks. They are a nuisance, not a medical emergency for healthy adults, but bloody socks do ruin the mood — pack a spare pair in a zip bag.