Horton Plains National Park is a beautiful natural reserve in Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its spectacular landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique highland ecosystems. This protected area spans approximately 3,160 hectares.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the island’s most popular attractions for nature lovers and hikers. With scenic views, a variety of wildlife, and iconic trails leading to landmarks like World’s End, Horton Plains will offer a memorable experience.
About Horton Plains National Park
The park is situated in Sri Lanka’s central highlands at an altitude of over 2,100 meters. It is famous for its cloud forests, rolling grasslands, and streams. Horton Plains boasts a variety of flora and fauna that are found nowhere else on the island.
The park is home to species like the sambar deer, Sri Lankan leopard, and purple-faced langur. If you are a bird enthusiast, you will find it captivating, as many endemic species reside in the park. The most famous trail, the World’s End Loop, leads to a sheer cliff offering panoramic views of the valley below.
Location
Horton Plains National Park is located in the Nuwara Eliya District, approximately 32 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya town. You can reach there by road. For the entrance, private transport or organized tours are available. The park’s remote highland location is one of its key attractions, allowing you to escape the lowland heat and enjoy cooler mountain air.
Entrance fee
For foreign visitors, the entrance fee to Horton Plains National Park is around $25 to $30 per person, with an additional vehicle fee for those arriving by car. The entry fee for Sri Lankan locals varies based on age, such as discounted rates for children.
There are different rates based on other activities you choose, like an entry fee along with a scenic train ride that costs LKR 6837 per person. The private day trip including Horton Plains and Pedro Tea Factory starts from LKR 11,000 per person.
Open time
The park opens to the public at 6:00 AM and closes by 6:00 PM daily. Early morning is the best time to start exploring, as it offers clearer skies and better chances of spotting wildlife. The ticket window opens half an hour early in the morning and closes half an hour early in the evening.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Horton Plains National Park is from January to March. During these months, the weather is cooler and drier. This allows for clearer views and more comfortable hiking conditions. Avoid the monsoon seasons (April to May and October to November), as trails can become muddy and visibility may be limited due to mist and rain.
Horton Plains National Park is a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through Sri Lanka’s hill country. It is one of the most beautiful places that you will witness.
You must make a proper plan to visit here, as the views also depend on the months you choose to visit.
Editorial Staff at Ceylon Empire Travels are Specialist in Sri Lanka Travel.
