World's End

World's End

Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England", is a picturesque hill town located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Known for its cool climate, scenic tea plantations, and colonial architecture, it is a popular tourist destination for both locals and foreigners alike. However, there is a lesser-known location in Nuwara Eliya called "World's End" that offers a unique and breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

World's End is located in the Horton Plains National Park, which is a protected area of grassland and cloud forest that covers over 3,000 hectares. The park is home to many endemic species of plants and animals and is considered one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in Sri Lanka. The park is also a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with many trails that lead through the forest and up to World's End.

World's End is a sheer cliff that drops over 800 meters, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The cliff is located at the southern end of the park and can be accessed by a 4-kilometer trail that starts at the visitor center. The trail is relatively easy and takes about 1.5 hours to complete, but the last section can be quite steep and challenging.

The best time to visit World's End is early in the morning when the mist is still rising from the valleys below, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere. On clear days, the view from the cliff extends all the way to the Indian Ocean, which is over 80 kilometers away. However, the weather in Nuwara Eliya can be unpredictable, and it is not uncommon for the mist to roll in and obscure the view, so it is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning a trip.

In addition to World's End, the Horton Plains National Park has many other attractions that are worth exploring. One of the most popular is Baker's Falls, a beautiful waterfall that is located about halfway along the trail to World's End. The waterfall is named after Sir Samuel Baker, a British explorer who is credited with discovering Lake Albert in Africa. The trail to Baker's Falls is relatively easy and takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Another popular attraction in the park is the Mini World's End, which is a smaller cliff that offers a similar view to World's End but is not as steep or as high. The trail to Mini World's End is only about 1 kilometer long and takes about 30 minutes to complete. Along the way, visitors can see many different types of flora and fauna, including sambar deer, purple-faced langurs, and many species of birds.

Visitors to the Horton Plains National Park should be aware that the park has strict rules and regulations designed to protect the environment and the wildlife. For example, visitors are not allowed to bring any plastic bottles or bags into the park, and they are required to take all their rubbish out with them. Smoking is also strictly prohibited, and visitors are advised to stay on the designated trails and not to disturb the wildlife.

In conclusion, World's End is a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Nuwara Eliya or Sri Lanka in general. The stunning view from the cliff is unlike anything else in the world and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. However, it is important to remember that the park is a protected area, and visitors should respect the rules and regulations designed to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.