The Mystical Horton Plains National Park
Explore the mystical Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka, featuring breathtaking landscapes, World’s End cliff, Baker's Falls, and diverse wildlife in a serene environment.
Horton Plains National Park is a gem nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cool climate. The park sits at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. One of the main attractions in Horton Plains is the World’s End, a sheer cliff with a drop of about 870 meters. On clear days, you can see the coastline from this vantage point. The park is also home to Baker's Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades down from a height of 20 meters. The diverse flora and fauna in the park include many endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. The park's unique cloud forest and grasslands offer a serene environment for trekking. The 9-kilometer circular trail is a popular route, taking visitors through all the major attractions. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and diverse wildlife, Horton Plains National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sri Lanka.
Local tips in Horton Plains National Park
- Arrive early in the morning to catch a clear view from World’s End before the mist rolls in.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the trails can be uneven and slippery.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no food stalls inside the park.
- Carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the early mornings.
- Hire a guide if you want to learn more about the park's unique flora and fauna.
The Mystical Horton Plains National Park
Horton Plains National Park is a gem nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cool climate. The park sits at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. One of the main attractions in Horton Plains is the World’s End, a sheer cliff with a drop of about 870 meters. On clear days, you can see the coastline from this vantage point. The park is also home to Baker's Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades down from a height of 20 meters. The diverse flora and fauna in the park include many endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. The park's unique cloud forest and grasslands offer a serene environment for trekking. The 9-kilometer circular trail is a popular route, taking visitors through all the major attractions. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and diverse wildlife, Horton Plains National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to go to Horton Plains National Park?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gregory Park
Experience the scenic beauty and recreational charm of Gregory Park in Nuwara Eliya, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Victoria Park - Nuwaraeliya
Explore the vibrant gardens and serene landscapes of Victoria Park, a picturesque oasis in Nuwara Eliya, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Moon Plains
Experience the breathtaking views and tranquil landscapes of Moon Plains, a hidden gem in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka.
Knuckles Forest Reserve
Explore the stunning Knuckles Forest Reserve in Sri Lanka, a paradise of biodiversity with breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Great World's End Drop
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Great World's End Drop in Horton Plains National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers in Sri Lanka.
Sripada Peak Wilderness Sanctuary
Explore the breathtaking natural beauty and spiritual significance of Sripada Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, a gem in Sri Lanka's rich landscape.
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Explore the majestic Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a historical treasure of Sri Lanka, offering stunning views and a rich cultural experience.
Thangamale Sanctuary
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich biodiversity of Thangamale Sanctuary – a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers in Sri Lanka.
Pahanthudawa Waterfall
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pahanthudawa Waterfall, a must-visit natural wonder in Belihuloya, Sri Lanka's lush landscape.
Galway's Land National Park
Explore Galway's Land National Park, a serene national park in Nuwara Eliya, rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Lover's Leap Waterfall
Discover the breathtaking Lover's Leap Waterfall in Nuwara Eliya, a serene escape surrounded by nature's beauty, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Maduru Oya National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Maduru Oya National Park, a hidden gem in Sri Lanka perfect for nature lovers.
Shanthipura View Point
Discover the stunning vistas and rich tea culture at Shanthipura View Point, a must-visit destination in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka.
Kolapathana Waterfall
Discover the serene beauty of Kolapathana Waterfall, a must-visit natural attraction in Nuwara Eliya, offering breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings.
Single Tree Hill
Experience breathtaking views and tranquility at Single Tree Hill in Nuwara Eliya, a perfect blend of nature and serenity for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gregory Park
Discover the tranquil beauty of Gregory Park in Nuwara Eliya, where nature, recreation, and relaxation come together in harmony.
Victoria Park - Nuwaraeliya
Discover the tranquil beauty of Victoria Park in Nuwara Eliya, a serene escape surrounded by vibrant flora and breathtaking landscapes.
Hakgala Botanical Garden
Explore the enchanting Hakgala Botanical Garden, a lush paradise showcasing diverse plant species and breathtaking landscapes in Sri Lanka.
Moon Plains
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Moon Plains, a captivating tourist attraction in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka.
Ambewela Farm
Explore Ambewela Farm: A serene escape into the beauty of Sri Lankan agriculture, where families connect with nature and enjoy fresh local produce.
Thangamale Sanctuary
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Thangamale Sanctuary, a hidden gem in Beragala, Sri Lanka, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Pahanthudawa Waterfall
Discover the tranquil beauty of Pahanthudawa Waterfall in Belihuloya, a perfect escape into nature's embrace, showcasing Sri Lanka's stunning landscapes.
Bomburu Ella Waterfall
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Bomburu Ella Waterfall, a serene escape nestled in the hills of Galpalama, Sri Lanka.
Baker's Falls
Explore Baker's Falls: A Hidden Gem in Sri Lanka's Lush Wilderness, Perfect for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers.
Galway's Land National Park
Unravel the natural beauty and wildlife wonders at Galway's Land National Park in Nuwara Eliya, a serene escape for all nature lovers.
Devon Falls
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Devon Falls, a stunning waterfall nestled in the lush hills of Sri Lanka's Dimbula region.
Lover's Leap Waterfall
Experience the enchanting beauty of Lover's Leap Waterfall in Nuwara Eliya, a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates every visitor.
Kolapathana Waterfall
Explore the breathtaking Kolapathana Waterfall in Nuwara Eliya, a serene oasis of natural beauty perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Single Tree Hill
Discover the breathtaking vistas of Single Tree Hill, a serene escape in Nuwara Eliya, where nature's beauty unfolds at every turn.
Nanu Oya Water Falls, Nanu Oya
Discover the serene beauty of Nanu Oya Water Falls, a stunning natural attraction in Sri Lanka surrounded by lush landscapes and tea plantations.
Essential places to dine
The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya - Heritage Grand
Discover unparalleled luxury and heritage at The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya, where timeless elegance meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Heritance Tea Factory
Discover luxury and tranquility at Heritance Tea Factory, where history meets breathtaking landscapes in Kandapola's lush hills.
Oak Ray Tea Bush - Ramboda
Discover tranquility at Oak Ray Tea Bush - Ramboda, where lush tea gardens meet stunning waterfalls for an unforgettable getaway.
Grand Indian
Experience authentic Indian flavors amidst the breathtaking beauty of Nuwara Eliya at Grand Indian.
Indian Summer Restaurant Nuwara Eliya
Discover exquisite Sri Lankan flavors at Indian Summer Restaurant in Nuwara Eliya, where every meal is a journey through taste.
Milano Restaurant
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Milano Restaurant in Nuwara Eliya amidst breathtaking hill station views.
Salmiya Italian Restaurant
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Nuwara Eliya at Salmiya Italian Restaurant, where flavor meets charm.
De Silva Food Center Nuwaraeliya.
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at De Silva Food Center in Nuwara Eliya - where every dish tells a story.
Melheim Resort and Spa
Experience luxury amidst nature at Melheim Resort and Spa in Haputale – where breathtaking views meet exceptional hospitality.
River Garden Resort
Experience unparalleled serenity at River Garden Resort – your gateway to Sri Lanka's natural beauty and rich culture.
Hill Cool Restaurant හිල් කූල් රෙස්ටුරන්ට්
Discover Hill Cool Restaurant in Kotagala: A delightful fusion of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and breathtaking views awaits you.
Blue Field Tea Center
Experience tranquility at Blue Field Tea Center in Nuwara Eliya – where exquisite teas meet breathtaking views.
Grand Thai
Experience the essence of Thailand in Nuwara Eliya at Grand Thai - where every dish tells a story.
Chill Ramboda
Experience exquisite Sri Lankan flavors at Chill Ramboda amidst breathtaking natural beauty and serene surroundings.
Queenswood Restaurant
Experience culinary excellence at Queenswood Restaurant in Nuwara Eliya with diverse flavors from Indian to Arab cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Horton Plains National Park
Experience breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at Horton Plains National Park, a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka.
Nimesha gift shop
Discover the charm of Sri Lankan craftsmanship at Nimesha Gift Shop in Welimada, offering unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.
W.A.P Hardware Stores Dubhe dealer no 134
Explore W.A.P Hardware Stores in Boralanda for quality tools, affordable prices, and outstanding customer service amidst Sri Lanka's stunning landscapes.
Isuru Grocery
Explore Isuru Grocery in Pambahinna for an authentic Asian shopping experience filled with unique ingredients and local flavors.
Sharmila Stores
Discover the charm of Sharmila Stores in Walhaputenna, where local crafts and authentic flavors come together for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Amarasiri stores
Explore the authentic taste of Asia at Amarasiri Stores, where vibrant flavors and local produce await every culinary enthusiast.
Sampath stose
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Sampath Store in Belihuloya - your ultimate grocery destination for local produce and snacks.
Nuwara Eliya Online kade
Discover unique gifts, delicious cakes, and local groceries at Nuwara Eliya Online Kade, where every product tells a story of Sri Lankan culture.
Kamala akka shop
Discover local crafts, traditional snacks, and the warm hospitality of Kamala Akka Shop in Welimada, a must-visit destination for authentic Sri Lankan souvenirs.
Pot shop
Discover the artistry of Sri Lankan pottery in Belihuloya, where tradition meets creativity in handcrafted ceramics.
Abesinghe Stores
Explore Abesinghe Stores in Boralanda for a unique shopping experience filled with local culture and friendly service.
Dhanatha Stores
Experience local flavors and essential goods at Dhanatha Stores in Idalgashinna, a gateway to Sri Lankan culinary delights.
Sun Apparel
Explore the vibrant local culture at Sun Apparel, your go-to general store in Agrapathan for unique clothing and handcrafted souvenirs.
Rajapaksha stores
Discover the charm of local shopping at Rajapaksha Stores in Ambewela, offering fresh produce and unique souvenirs from Sri Lanka.
Suresh shop
Experience local culture and unique shopping at Suresh Shop in Idalgashinna, a charming store with handmade crafts and traditional goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pub - Nuwara Eliya
Discover the charm of The Pub in Nuwara Eliya, where delicious food meets the serene beauty of Sri Lanka's tea country.
The 19th HOLE PUB
Experience the charm of Nuwara Eliya at The 19th Hole Pub, where great drinks and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.
Windsor Bar
Discover the charm of Windsor Bar in Nuwara Eliya, where refreshing drinks and friendly locals create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Lake View Pub
Experience the charm of Nuwara Eliya at Lake View Pub, where stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere await you.
Pub London Nuwaraeliye
Discover the lively atmosphere and stunning lake views at Pub London Nuwaraeliya, a must-visit bar for tourists in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country.
Pub Jamis
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Pub Jamis, a must-visit pub in the heart of Nuwara Eliya.
Midland Liquor Stores
Discover Midland Liquor Stores in Nuwara Eliya: A vibrant bar with a diverse drink selection and a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
Niro’s Pub Nuwara eliya
Experience the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality at Niro's Pub in Nuwara Eliya, where delightful drinks and local flavors await you.
Boralanda Drink Shop
Discover the charm of Boralanda Drink Shop, a cozy bar in Nuwara Eliya offering a delightful selection of refreshing beverages amidst stunning hill country views.
Wildhorse Pub
Experience the warmth and charm of Wildhorse Pub in Nuwara Eliya, where great drinks meet stunning landscapes.
Ambewela Beer Bar
A cozy retreat in Ambewela, the Ambewela Beer Bar offers a delightful selection of local and international beers amidst stunning natural scenery.
Welimada Pub
Experience the lively atmosphere of Welimada Pub in Keppetipola, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
PEDRO HOTEL
Experience the charm of Nuwara Eliya at Pedro Hotel, where local flavors meet stunning views in a cozy bar setting.
Yathavan
Experience the tranquil ambiance and delightful drinks at Yathavan, a charming bar in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka's picturesque highlands.
jaya
Discover the vibrant Jaya Bar in Nuwara Eliya, where locals and tourists unite for refreshing drinks and unforgettable experiences amidst stunning landscapes.
Local Phrases about Horton Plains National Park
-
- Helloහොඳ සුබ උදෑසනක්
[hōda suba udēsanak] - Goodbyeසුබ උදෑසනක්
[suba udēsanak] - Yesඔව්
[ow] - Noනෑ
[nē] - Please/You're welcomeකරනවා / තාම සුබදැන්
[karannavā / thama subadān] - Thank youඔබට ස්තූතියි
[ōbata stutiyi] - Excuse me/Sorryසමාවෙන්න/දැන්ම සමාවෙන්න
[samāvenna/danma samāvenna] - How are you?ඔයාට කොහොමද?
[ōyāta kohomada?] - Fine. And you?හොඳටම. ඔයා?
[hōdatama. ōyā?] - Do you speak English?ඔයාඇංග්රීසි කතා කරයිද?
[ōyā angriṣi kathā karayi da?] - I don't understandමම දරුවන් කතා කරනවා
[mama daruvan kathā karanavā]
- Helloහොඳ සුබ උදෑසනක්
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseකරුණාක් මෙනු දෙන්නක්
[karunak menu denna] - I don't eat meatමම මස් කමක් කියාදෙනවා
[mama mas kamak kiyanavā] - Cheers!සුබ සුබ
[suba suba] - I would like to pay, pleaseකරුණාක් ගෙවියාදෙනවා
[karunak gēviyadenavā]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseකරුණාක් මෙනු දෙන්නක්
-
- Help!උක්කල්ල!
[ukkalla!] - Go away!යන්න!
[yanna!] - Call the Police!පොලිස්ගේ ඇතුලු කරනවා!
[polisgē āthulu karanavā!] - Call a doctor!වෛරස් කරනවා!
[vāras karanavā!] - I'm lostමම අතිනවා
[mama atinavā] - I'm illමම අවියෙනවා
[mama aviyenavā]
- Help!උක්කල්ල!
-
- I'd like to buy...කරුණාක් මෙනු වෙනවා...
[karunak menu wēnavā...] - I'm just lookingමම දැන් දලාතියි
[mama dan dalātiyi] - How much is it?එයා කොහොමද?
[eyā kohomada?] - That's too expensiveඑයා ඉතා වියදී
[eyā itha vidē] - Can you lower the price?එයා බෑලුමක් කරනවාද?
[eyā bēlumak karanavadā?]
- I'd like to buy...කරුණාක් මෙනු වෙනවා...
-
- What time is it?වේලාව කුමක් දිනවන්ද?
[wēlāva kumak dinavandā?] - It's one o'clockඑකටම වේලාවයි
[ekatama wēlāvayi] - Half past (10)දහයට වේලාවයි (දහයට දහය)
[dahayata wēlāvayi (dahayata dahaya)] - Morningවැනිදා
[wänidā] - Afternoonදවසට
[davasata] - Eveningවෙනස
[wēnas] - Yesterdayඊයේ
[īyē] - Todayඅද
[ada] - Tomorrowහෙට
[heta] - 1එක
[eka] - 2දෙක
[dēka] - 3තුන
[thuna] - 4හතර
[hathara] - 5පහ
[paha] - 6හය
[haya] - 7හත
[hatha] - 8අට
[ata] - 9නත
[nata] - 10දහය
[dahaya]
- What time is it?වේලාව කුමක් දිනවන්ද?
-
- Where's a/the...?...කොත්තු ඉවුලේද?
[...kotthu iwuleda?] - What's the address?ලිපිනය කුමක් වගෙද?
[lipinaya kumak wagēda?] - Can you show me (on the map)?එයා මමට පෙන්වනවාද (කැන්ඩරයට)?
[eyā mamat penwanavadā (kandarayata)?] - When's the next (bus)?මීගමා සමානක් දිනවන්ද?
[mīgamā samānak dinavandā?] - A ticket (to ....)ප්රාග්ගකට (එක්වට ...)
[pragagata (ekwat ...)]
- Where's a/the...?...කොත්තු ඉවුලේද?
History of Horton Plains National Park
-
Horton Plains National Park, known in ancient times as Maha Eliya, has a history that dates back to prehistoric periods. Archaeological evidence suggests that early human settlements existed in this area over 2,000 years ago. Stone tools and other artifacts have been discovered, indicating the presence of hunter-gatherer societies who thrived on the rich flora and fauna of the plains.
-
During the British colonial period in the 19th century, Horton Plains was extensively explored by British surveyors and naturalists. The area was named after Sir Robert Wilmot-Horton, the British governor of Ceylon from 1831 to 1837. British colonists were drawn to the region's cool climate and scenic beauty, leading to the establishment of tea and coffee plantations in the surrounding areas.
-
In 1988, Horton Plains was declared a national park to protect its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. The park spans approximately 3,160 hectares and includes montane grasslands, cloud forests, and numerous endemic species. The declaration marked a significant step in preserving the ecological integrity of the region, which is home to endangered species such as the Sri Lankan leopard and the Horton Plains slender loris.
-
Horton Plains holds cultural importance for the indigenous Vedda people, who have historically inhabited the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The Vedda community regards the plains as a sacred landscape and has various myths and legends associated with the area. Traditional practices and rituals are still observed by some Vedda groups, emphasizing the deep spiritual connection between the people and the land.
-
In 2010, Horton Plains National Park, along with the adjoining Knuckles Conservation Forest and the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, was designated as part of the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This recognition underscores the global significance of the park's natural heritage and highlights the need for ongoing conservation efforts to protect its unique landscapes and biodiversity.
-
Horton Plains has been a focal point for scientific research and ecological studies. The park's diverse habitats have provided valuable insights into the effects of climate change, species adaptation, and ecosystem dynamics. Ongoing research initiatives contribute to the understanding and preservation of this vital natural resource, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate its ecological and cultural richness.
Horton Plains National Park Essentials
-
Horton Plains National Park is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The nearest major town is Nuwara Eliya, which is about 32 kilometers away. The closest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, approximately 190 kilometers from the park. From Colombo, you can take a train or bus to Nuwara Eliya. From Nuwara Eliya, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the park entrance at Pattipola or Ohiya.
-
Within Horton Plains National Park, the primary mode of transportation is walking, as motorized vehicles are not allowed beyond the entrance gates. However, to reach the park, you can hire a taxi or use local buses. If you prefer more flexibility, consider renting a car or a scooter. Keep in mind that the roads can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously.
-
The official currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). While credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants in cities, it is advisable to carry cash when visiting rural areas and national parks. There are ATMs in Nuwara Eliya, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Horton Plains, as there are no ATMs within the park.
-
Horton Plains National Park is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is essential to adhere to park regulations and stay on designated trails to avoid getting lost or encountering wildlife. Petty crimes like pickpocketing are rare but can occur in crowded areas outside the park. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone after dark in unfamiliar areas.
-
In case of an emergency within Horton Plains National Park, contact the park rangers stationed at the visitor center. The emergency number in Sri Lanka is 119. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, carry a basic first-aid kit as medical facilities are not available within the park. The nearest hospital is in Nuwara Eliya.
-
Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Don't wear flashy jewelry or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While there are no religious sites within the park, it is essential to be respectful of local beliefs. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and offer seats to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a slight bow. Handshakes are common but not mandatory. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
-
To experience Horton Plains National Park like a local, start your hike early in the morning to catch the sunrise at World's End, one of the park's most famous viewpoints. Also, try to visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at designated spots within the park. Engage with local guides and rangers; they often have fascinating stories and insights about the park's flora and fauna.
Trending Landmarks in Horton Plains National Park
-
Gregory Park
-
Victoria Park - Nuwaraeliya
-
Moon Plains
-
Knuckles Forest Reserve
-
Great World's End Drop
-
Sripada Peak Wilderness Sanctuary
-
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
-
Thangamale Sanctuary
-
Pahanthudawa Waterfall
-
Galway's Land National Park
-
Lover's Leap Waterfall
-
Maduru Oya National Park
-
Shanthipura View Point
-
Kolapathana Waterfall
-
Single Tree Hill
Nearby Cities to Horton Plains National Park
-
Things To Do in Ella
-
Things To Do in Kandy
-
Things To Do in Bentota
-
Things To Do in Matara
-
Things To Do in Mirissa
-
Things To Do in Colombo
-
Things To Do in Hikkaduwa
-
Things To Do in Unawatuna
-
Things To Do in Galle
-
Things To Do in Negombo
-
Things To Do in Sigiriya
-
Things To Do in Polonnaruwa
-
Things To Do in Anuradhapura
-
Things To Do in Trincomalee
-
Things To Do in Jaffna