Sri Lanka’s Highland Gem. (Horton Plains National Park)
Horton Plains National Park is a protected area located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is covered by montane grassland and cloud forest and is situated at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 meters (6,900–7,500 ft). The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, with many species being unique to this region. In 1988, it was declared a national park and has since become a popular tourist attraction. Additionally, the park serves as the source of Sri Lanka’s essential rivers and natural wonders.
The Horton Plains, which are located in Sri Lanka, are the source of three major rivers – Mahaweli, Kelani, and Walawe. Locals refer to the plains as Maha Eliya Plains in Sinhala. The area has yielded stone tools from the Balangoda culture. The vegetation in the plains is a mix of grasslands and montane forests, which are home to many woody plants unique to the region. The park is an Important Bird Area, with a diverse range of bird species, some of which are not only endemic to Sri Lanka but also to the Horton Plains. The park is often visited by large herds of sambar deer. However, it is under threat from forest dieback, which is thought to be a natural occurrence. The park’s main attractions are World’s End and Baker’s Falls. The former is a sheer precipice.
Climate and Vegetation in Horton Plains
The Horton Plains are situated on Sri Lanka’s highest plateau, at altitudes between 2,000 and 2,300m. The area is characterized by rolling lands that are covered with tropical cloud forests or lush montane savannah grasslands, which locals refer to as patannahs. It’s recommended to visit the place early in the morning when the sky is clear, and you can witness the spectacular views. However, in the afternoon, the clouds tend to descend, and the area gets engulfed in mist, which is also breathtaking and provides evidence of the forest’s evolutionary process. Plan for half a day to explore the place leisurely.
Horton Plains, also known as ‘Mahaeliya’, is a popular weekend destination for locals. To avoid the crowds and experience a more peaceful visit, we recommend visiting the park on a weekday. Join Ceylon Classic Tours to learn more about Horton Plains.
The optimal time to visit this place is early morning when the sky is clear and you can relish the breathtaking views. However, in the afternoons, clouds usually descend, and the area gets covered in mist, which is equally captivating and provides evidence for the evolution of this forest type. To enjoy everything at a relaxed pace, half a day should be enough.
