Are you an adventure seekers in search of otherworldly landscapes? If you are visiting Sri Lanka on a holiday there are plenty, but one that is a must-visit site is the Horton Plains National Park. Situated on the island’s central highlands, this is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders you can witness here.
Surrounded by vast grasslands, dense cloud forests, and stunning viewpoints, the park offers a thrilling experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to the iconic World’s End and Baker’s Falls. Besides its stunning beauty, the Horton Plains houses a variety of endemic species and serves the primary watershed for many of the country’s rivers.
Regardless of whether you are a seasoned trekker or a holiday maker, this landmark should be on your list of activities to do in Sri Lanka. From navigating the misty landscapes and cool climate to its cultural significance, keep reading this informative guide to know everything about the Horton Plains.
Nested among the lush forests in the Nuwara Eliya District, it is 175 km away from the airport and 32 km from Nuwara Eliya town. Although it may seem like a remote destination, there are numerous ways of getting to the Horton Plains.
The most convenient way is by hiring a private vehicle or taxi from Nuwara Eliya to Ohiya. If you are heading for an excursion here from the airport, book with Arabiers Holidays, we offer a hassle-free journey to your accommodation in any part of the country. For those taking the trip from Nuwara Eliya to Horton Plains it's close to a 2 hour drive. The road is steep and winding, but the gorgeous scenery along the way makes it a fun little road trip.
If you are seeking more budget friendly options, the Colombo-Badulla railway line provides access to Ohiya which is the closest train station to Horton Plains. From there take a tuk to the park. There are many taxi hailing apps in the country so you should be able to get to your destination without any difficulty.
Although there is no direct bus service to Horton Plains, you can still take a bus to Ohiya then hire a tuk or taxi to the park entrance. The bus ride is equally scenic with sights of mountains and waterfalls regardless of the route.
17 March 2025 | 13 Min Read
This landmark is more than just a scenic landscape, it is a vital part of the country's history and culture. Horton Plains, along with the Peak Wilderness and Knuckles Mountain Range, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name "Central Highlands of Sri Lanka” due to its biodiversity.
Not only that, but the park is a major watershed as it is the origin of three major rivers. The Mahaweli, Kelani, and Walawe rivers are very important as they provide water for agriculture, drinking, and hydroelectricity in different parts of the country. Home to a variety of endemic creatures like the sambar deer and whistling thrush, it is a haven for wildlife and bird enthusiasts who want to catch rare species.
This destination is filled with so many iconic attractions you cannot miss so make sure to clear your schedule for a day of adventure. As one of Sri Lanka’s most popular trekking spots, there is so much to see from breathtaking viewpoints to cascading waterfalls.
The circular trail is the main trekking route, covering 9.5 km. It takes around 3 to 3 ½ hours to complete depending on your pace. You will pass through World’s End, Mini World’s End, and Baker’s Falls along the way.
The starting point is the Horton Plains Visitor Center and the main stops are the World’s End followed by the Mini World’s End then Baker’s Falls and Chimney pool. The trail is not too hard to hike and is beginner-friendly so don't worry if you are not an experienced trekker. It is also well-marked but do be cautious of some steep and rocky sections in your journey.
Even though it is a fairly easy to moderate trek, do check and weather conditions beforehand and do not attempt during the rainy seasons. Not only will the views be obscured by mist and rain, the hike will be difficult and slippery as well. The monsoon period is around May to September, although there is a higher chance of rain if you can bear the wet trail you will be rewarded with a fuller waterfall and more scenic views.
The perfect time is between December to April with clear skies and a cooler climate. If you want to see a gorgeous sunrise, trek in the morning as you get the best visibility at World’s End before the mist rolls in. Some of the summer months of July and August are also ideal, especially in the daytime but make sure to check for signs of rain before your excursion.
The plains are surrounded by forests and grasslands with the World’s End cliff marking a dramatic drop towards the lowlands. Ohiya, Pattipola, and Ambewela regions are the main access points to Horton Plains. Due to its high elevation, the temperatures remain relatively low of around 5°C to 20°C throughout the year. This environment supports rare plant and animal species found nowhere else on the island.
It is a haven for many mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. With montane cloud forests and wetland plants consisting of tussock grass, dwarf bamboo, orchids and even carnivorous ones like Drosera, the Horton Plains provides a unique habitat for many endemic species.
The most commonly seen animal is the Sri Lankan sambar deer which roams the grasslands. Some of the other animals occasionally spotted in the park are Sri Lankan leopard which is an endangered subspecies and the purple-faced langur. If you are a bird watcher this attraction is a paradise! You can spot over 20 rare bird species such as the whistling thrush and bush warbler
Due to its fragile ecosystem the Horton Plains faces several environmental challenges. Though hunting is banned, some illegal activities still threaten wildlife. Along with the impact of human activity and unpredictable weather patterns, it can cause issues to the park's delicate ecosystem.
Over the years many conservationists, scientists and rangers have banded together for reforestation and wildlife monitoring projects to restore damaged areas of the park and ensure the survival of the animal population. This is why as a visitor you must follow the strict entry regulations and leave no plastic waste behind.
To make the most of your visit to Horton Plains, keep these tips in mind:
A true gem inside this stunning Island, the Horton Plains is one attraction you cannot pass up on. With breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thrilling trekking experiences, the park never fails to impress.
With two is Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks in one spot, it draws in thousands of visitors every year. Witness the World’s End and cascading Baker’s Falls as you navigate these natural heritage sites. If you can respect the environment and follow conservation guidelines to preserve this pristine wilderness, it is an unmissable adventure that promises unforgettable memories.