Horton Plains National Park
Sum up
The top sight at Horton Plains National Park is World’s End, where this highland plateau comes to an abrupt halt and a yawning drop of around 1,000m opens up before you. Close by is Mini World’s End, where the drop is a mere 300 metres. Catch the view before 10am and you are most likely to be rewarded with something quite spectacular. Arrive late and the mists might have rolled in, leaving you gazing into whiteness, particularly in the wettest time of year from May to September. A small viewing viewing area is fenced off, but not sticking to the approved path carries obvious risk when you approach the cliff edge. Also worth a visit for the energetic is an extension to nearby Baker’s Falls, one of the finest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. This involves a fair deal of scrambling up steep slopes and is only recommended to those fleet of foot. The walk to World’s End along flat terrain is 4kms, with a demanding loop to Baker’s Falls (2km) and another 3.5km back to the entrance). The entire 9.5km round trip takes a leisurely three hours.
Duration:3 hours
Best Time: January to March
Additional Information
The best way to explore the park is on foot, although the plains can also be experienced by jeep, preferably from early morning as the mist often falls by lunchtime. Horton Plains, at its worst, can be a desolate spot so go prepared for all weathers. Take good footwear with a firm grip and dress in layers. This has become a popular package tour excursion so entrance prices are not cheap. This undulating 2,000m-high plateau lies 28km south of Nuwara Eliya. The grassy plains, which are interspersed with small patches of forest, are home to sambur deer, sloth bears, monkeys and a rich array of birds, including some endemic species. Any wildlife, though, is a bonus in this bleak landscape. Horton Plains’ gently undulating landscape is at the southern end of the central mountain massif of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka’s second and third highest peaks, Kirigalpotha (2,395m) and Thotupola Kanda (2,357m) are found here and three of the island’s largest rivers – the Mahawali, Kelani and Walawe – originate from the Horton Plains. Entrance tickets are sold until 2:30pm daily, and travellers must exit the national park by 6pm. To control litter, any plastics and other items might well be confiscated.
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