How to Plan Your Trip to Horton Plains

Known as one of the UNESCO Heritage sites in Sri Lanka, Horton Plains National Park is a hiking adventure just waiting to be explored by travellers. Get to know the know-how of the place and the best times to embark on the trek. Read on to make the most out of your trip during your stay in Sri Lanka.

Routes to take 

Horton Plains National Park is one of the best places to see in Nuwara Eliya for any traveller while they are holidaying in the area. This 31-kilometre green space can be reached by following several hiking trails. They are the World’s End Trail, Baker’s Fall Trail, Kirigal Potta Trail, Thotupola Kanda Trail and Cloud Forest Trail. 

The World’s End Trail is known to be the most popular route to take. It is not difficult to traverse as it stretches across 5.1 miles. At the end of the hike, you will reach the plateau which is 900 meters above the plain. You will pass the enchanting Baker’s Fall on your way there. This is one of the most scenic spots in the area as you get ample flora and fauna there. 

The Kirigal Potta Trail is difficult to tackle. However if you are someone who does not mind the challenge, you can take on this task and inspect the montane grasslands and cloud forests on the way there. The Totupola Kanda Trail is for all those who love panoramic views of the surroundings while the Cloud Forest Trail is for birdwatching enthusiasts. 

Transport methods 

Foreigners need to take a flight to Sri Lanka’s prominent airport, Bandaranaike International Airport. They can catch a taxi or a bus from there or hire a car to travel to their own space if they are heading there with a group or their family. 

If you stay at a hotel close to the site like Araliya Green City, you will be nearly an hour’s drive away. So you can either rent a car or hire a tuk-tuk to head there. These can be located on the streets of Nuwara Eliya. You can even hop on a train from the city, disembark at Pattipola and take a tuk-tuk there. 

Best time to head there 

The most suitable time to explore Horton Plains National Park is from January to March. You can catch some breathtaking views then as the weather is pleasant. Better views are hindered by the park's generally overcast and misty weather throughout the year. Schedule your visit for the morning, ideally between 6.30 am and 10 am, as the place is less busy then. The skies will also be clear making way for a lot of explorations. 

What to see 

There are plenty of attractions on the way to and in Horton Plains. One of the key things you need to keep your eye peeled out for is the fauna in the area. Some of the best sightings involve animals like wild boa, Sri Lanka superfowl, red slender loris, and purple-faced Langur. You also get a variety of flowers and plants like orchids and ferns.  

The most popular attraction here is World’s End. It is popular for its hiking experience and enchanting views. The plunge here is around 4,000 feet. You also get a smaller version close by which is around a 1000 feet drop. 

The 20-meter cascade Baker’s Fall is another location that is worth stopping by. This cascade was made out of the Belihuloya River’s tributary. Capture some picturesque shots there to add to your memories. 

Travel tips 

•    Embark on your adventure early to prevent fog and mist from obscuring the vistas.

•    The park is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm. 

•    Temperatures can drop considerably, so wear layers to keep warm and comfortable.

•    Wear comfortable footwear as you will be doing plenty of walking. 

•    Take enough water to stay hydrated. 

•    Plastic packaging is banned from this destination.