Horton Plains

Horton Plains

Horton Plains

Horton Plains National Park : A Must-Visit Destination in Sri Lanka

Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a spectacular nature reserve situated in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Covering an area of 31.16 square kilometers at an elevation of 2,134 meters above sea level, it is the highest plateau in Sri Lanka. Located near Nuwara Eliya and Ohiya, Horton Plains is a must-visit destination for its serene landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique climate.

Horton Plains

Unique Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Flora

  • Lush vegetation, including Rhododendrons, orchids, and moss-covered trees, thrives in the park’s cool climate.
  • Wetlands and grasslands support diverse plant life, making Horton Plains a botanist’s dream.

Fauna

  • Endemic animals such as the Horton Plains langur, Sri Lankan leopard, and giant squirrel inhabit the park.
  • Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting rare species like the Sri Lanka whistling thrush and Dull-blue flycatcher.
  • Sambar deer are a common sight grazing in the grasslands.
Horton Plains

Iconic Attractions at Horton Plains

Horton Plains offers several natural landmarks and scenic spots that make it a favorite among hikers and photographers.

World’s End

A dramatic 870-meter cliff, World’s End provides breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys below and, on clear days, the distant coastline.

Mini World’s End

A smaller but equally beautiful viewpoint with a 270-meter drop.

Baker’s Falls

This picturesque waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular stop along the hiking trail.

Horton Plains

Hiking, Wildlife, and Photography

Hiking Trails

The 9 km circular trail is the most popular hiking route, taking visitors through diverse landscapes, including montane forests, grasslands, and marshes. The trail takes 3–4 hours to complete and includes stops at World’s End, Mini World’s End, and Baker’s Falls.

Wildlife Spotting

The park’s cool and humid climate makes it a perfect sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. Early mornings are ideal for spotting animals like sambar deer, giant squirrels, and various bird species.

Photography

Horton Plains offers unparalleled opportunities for nature photography. Capture the mist-covered landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and serene waterfalls. The sunrise at World’s End is especially magical.

Horton Plains

Practical Information for Visitors

How to Get There

Horton Plains is accessible from Nuwara Eliya (32 km) and Ohiya (10 km). Visitors can reach the park by private vehicle, tuk-tuk, or public transport. Ohiya Railway Station is the nearest train stop.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, from January to March, when clear skies make for excellent hiking and sightseeing. Early mornings offer the best views at World’s End.

Park Regulations

Horton Plains is a protected area, and visitors are required to follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid littering and take waste back with you.
  • Stay on marked trails to preserve the environment.
  • Do not feed or disturb wildlife.

Explore more places near Horton Plains

Ella

Bambarakanda Falls

Ambewela