Horton Plains National Park - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Horton Plains National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Horton Plains National Park, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Horton Plains National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Horton Plains National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Horton Plains National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Horton Plains National Park

Sure, Horton Plains National Park is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, about 2,100 meters above sea level. It is a protected area that covers over 3,160 hectares, and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, which include grasslands, plateau-like plains, waterfalls, and rocky outcrops, as well as for its unique biodiversity, including endangered species such as the Horton Plains slender loris, the Sri Lankan leopard, and the sambar deer. The park is a popular destination for hiking and nature-watching, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as trekking along the nature trails and observing wildlife and birdwatching.

What to visit in Horton Plains National Park

Certainly, here are some of the tourist attractions in Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka along with some information about each: 1. Baker’s Falls - A waterfall on the Belihul Oya River which cascades down from a height of 20 meters, providing a scenic spot for visitors and hikers.
2. World's End - A sheer cliff drop of about 4,000 feet that provides breathtaking views overlooking the tea plantation below, making it one of the most popular destinations in the world.
3. Mini World’s End - A smaller version of World's End, with a relatively shorter drop, but still an impressive view worth seeing.
4. Chimney Pool - A scenic spot located near the Baker Falls, offers the perfect place for visitors to relax in the cool waters of the stream and enjoy the scenery.
5. Thotupola Kanda - At 2,357 meters above sea level, this is the third highest mountain in Sri Lanka. From the summit, visitors can enjoy the amazing view of the Horton Plains plateau.
6. Kirigalpotta Trail - A popular hiking trail that leads to the Kirigalpotta Peak, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.
Overall, Horton Plains National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers and anyone else looking for a scenic escape.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Horton Plains National Park

The best time to visit Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka is during the dry season from December to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for trekking and wildlife watching. It is important to note that the park is closed during the northeast monsoon season from October to November due to heavy rainfall and high winds. Additionally, it is best to visit the park during weekdays to avoid crowding.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Horton Plains National Park

To get to Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka, you can take a bus or hire a private vehicle from nearby cities like Nuwara Eliya or Haputale. The park is located about 32 km from Nuwara Eliya and 38 km from Haputale. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic. Alternatively, you can take a train to Ohiya railway station - located in close proximity to the park. However, this is a less popular option as the train schedules can be unpredictable in Sri Lanka.
Please note that there are no vehicles that are allowed inside the park, so you will have to walk the trails within.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Horton Plains National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Horton Plains National Park

Horton Plains National Park is situated in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, and it is renowned for its unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife. Here are some of the typical foods that you can try during your visit to Horton Plains National Park: 1. Kottu Roti: It is a popular Sri Lankan dish made with shredded roti, vegetables, and eggs or meat. It is a flavorful and filling dish.
2. Pol Roti: It is a Sri Lankan flatbread made with grated coconut and flour. It is usually served with a spicy coconut sambol or curry.
3. String Hoppers: It is a steamed rice flour noodle that is served with a spicy curry or coconut milk gravy. It is a popular breakfast dish in Sri Lanka.
4. Fish Curry: The fish is cooked in a spicy, thick coconut milk gravy that is flavored with curry leaves, pandan leaves, and tamarind. It is a must-try dish if you are a seafood lover.
5. Sri Lankan Rice and Curry: The rice and curry usually include a variety of vegetable curries, lentils, and meat dishes. It is a hearty and filling meal that is full of flavors and spices.
6. Watalappan: It is a Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, cardamom, and cashew nuts. It has a creamy texture and a sweet, nutty flavor.
These are some of the typical foods that you can try during your visit to Horton Plains National Park. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the local flavors and taste some of the delicious dishes that Sri Lanka has to offer.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Horton Plains National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other national parks in Sri Lanka, Horton Plains National Park is relatively more expensive. The entrance fee for foreign visitors is $30 per person and $15 for children below 12 years of age. However, the park's unique and breathtaking landscapes, such as the World's End and Baker's Falls, make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers. Additionally, the park has limited daily entry, which helps maintain its pristine environment, so it's recommended to book tickets in advance.

Where to find accomodation in Horton Plains National Park

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka are Nuwara Eliya and Haputale. Nuwara Eliya is a popular tourist destination with many options for accommodation ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Haputale is a quieter town located closer to the park and offers a more rustic experience with homestays and eco lodges. Both areas are easily accessible to the park and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and tea estates.
You can check hotel prices at Horton Plains National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Horton Plains National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions such as staying on designated trails, avoiding roaming in isolated areas, and following the guidelines provided by park rangers. It's also important to be aware of the wildlife since there are leopards, deer, and other animals in the park. Visitors should not feed or approach the animals and should maintain a safe distance. Additionally, it's recommended to visit the park during the daytime as night visits are not allowed due to safety concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Horton Plains National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Horton Plains National Park the most?

Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It offers a unique experience of trekking across picturesque landscapes and enjoying serene natural beauty. Therefore, it is an attraction that will be loved by people of all ages. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find the beauty of the place enchanting. Young people looking for adventure and trekking will enjoy the challenge of the trails and the panoramic views. Meanwhile, families with children can enjoy a fun-filled day exploring the park and experiencing its fauna and flora.
In summary, Horton Plains National Park offers a perfect escape for everyone who loves nature, adventure and beautiful landscapes.

How to get around Horton Plains National Park

The main mode of transportation to move around Horton Plains National Park is walking or hiking. The park has a number of well-marked trails, such as the popular World's End trail and the Baker's Falls trail, which can be explored on foot. Bicycles are not allowed inside the park, but there are sometimes guided tours by jeep available for visitors.

What to see around Horton Plains National Park

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Horton Plains National Park: 1. Nuwara Eliya: This is a beautiful hill station known for its tea plantations, scenic beauty and colonial-era bungalows.
2. Hakgala Botanical Gardens: This is a stunning botanical garden located in the hills of Nuwara Eliya. It has a vast collection of plants and flowers that are sure to delight nature lovers.
3. Seetha Amman Temple: This temple is located in the village of Seetha Eliya, near Nuwara Eliya. It is believed to be the spot where Sita was held captive by the demon king Ravana in the epic Ramayana.
4. Ella: This is a picturesque town located in the Badulla district. It is known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls and hiking trails.
5. Little Adam's Peak: This is a small mountain located near Ella. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular hiking spot.
6. Kandy: This is a historic city located about 3-4 hours from Horton Plains National Park. It is known for its cultural heritage and is home to the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic.
7. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: This is an elephant orphanage located near Kandy. It is home to about 100 elephants and is a great place to interact with these majestic creatures.
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.