Attraction Guide: Horton Plains National Park, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Horton Plains National Park Guide

Horton Plains: Walk Among the Clouds Guide

Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning protected area in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. This unique plateau, characterized by its montane grassland and cloud forest, offers breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to escape the tropical heat and immerse themselves in a cooler, more temperate environment. The park's history is relatively recent, having been declared a nature reserve in 1969 and upgraded to a national park in 1988. Its name comes from Sir Robert Wilmot-Horton, the British Governor of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) from 1831 to 1837. The area's ecological significance lies in its role as a vital watershed, feeding several major rivers in Sri Lanka. The unique ecosystem has evolved over millennia, supporting a variety of endemic flora and fauna. Visitors to Horton Plains can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking to World's End, a dramatic escarpment with a sheer drop of nearly 900 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape (weather permitting). Baker's Falls, a beautiful waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs, is another popular destination. Wildlife spotting is also a major draw, with opportunities to see sambar deer, leopards (though sightings are rare), various bird species, and endemic lizards. Remember to dress warmly, as the temperature can fluctuate significantly throughout the day.