Horton Plains National Park – Here’s Everything You Need To Know!

Sri Lanka, the teardrop-shaped island might look the smallest on the world map but offers plenty of attractions which are pretty enough to satisfy any kind of traveller. Let it be the romantic places, sparkling beaches, historical places, spicy dishes, scenic areas or anything, you will only find the best of everything in Sri Lanka. In addition, this South Asia country also hold few World Heritage Sites which can never be missed from your itinerary. This article will give you a detailed idea about the Horton Plains National Park which is one of the most famous World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. Already excited to know about this place? Well, all you need to do is to virtually get ready to explore Horton Plains National Park by reading…

Also Read: How to Reach Sri Lanka – Your Travel Guide from India

Horton Plains National Park – A Quick Overview

The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka is a well-known World Heritage Site and it comprises three major sites which are Peak Wilderness Protected Area, Knuckles Conservation Forest, and the Horton Plains National Park. Yes, the mesmerizing Horton Plains National Park is one among the three. This park is covered with a thick verdant forest where you will find a variety of animals and birds. Also, the lakes, huge hills, waterfalls, and the perfect nature spots will give you all the chills and thrills you have been looking for! Let’s get into some details now…

Traveller Tip 💡

Make sure you head to the park at least before 9 AM in the morning to get a sight of the splendid views.

Best Time To Visit

No matter to which place we may go, there is always the best time to visit which will brighten the real beauty of that particular place. In that case, the start of the year is considered to be the best time to visit Horton Plains National Park. Particularly from January to March, you will be able to get a clear view of the place, whereas the rest of the months are mostly covered with clouds and mist most of the times.

How To Reach?

Okay, i am sure most of you had this question on your mind! I have come up with three simple ways in which one may reach this dreamy place.

By Air –

If you choose to visit this destination via air. You will have to fly to the well known Bandaranaike International Airport which is exactly in Colombo.

By Road –

Nuwara Eliya is the exact point from where most of the backpackers spend a night stay and start their journey to the Horton Plains National park the very next early morning. You can choose to take a taxi or tuk-tuks which would take you to the destination within two hours.

By Train –

You can reach the park directly by taking the direct available trains from Nanu Oya, Haputale & Ella. Taking a train journey could also give you some stunning scenic views!

Traveller Tip 💡

If you are looking to travel by road, make sure you hire a taxi the previous day itself as finding one in the early morning is a pretty tough task.

Entrance Fee

Even though there are a few sites in this region that are free of cost, there is basically an entry fee that should be paid. For Sri Lankan nationals, an entry fee of 30 INR for a day and 60 INR for an overnight visit is required. For foreigners, an entry fee of 1150 INR is required for a day and 2090 INR for an overnight visit is to be paid. In case if you are looking forward to parking your vehicle, an amount of 500 INR should be paid.

Must-Try Things In Horton Plains National Park

1. Go hiking

Hiking is definitely one of the must-try things in this park. And, the main part of hiking is the famous World’s End! This place is where the plateau of the park comes to a sudden end. Well, I guess now you got an idea of why it is known as World’s End, right? Also, on the clear sky days, you can get to see a clear view of Adam’s Peak from the Word’s End. A hike experience here will surely guarantee you some GOOSEBUMP MOMENTS!

2. Take a break in Farr Inn

A cup of coffee + friends & family + a beautiful surrounding = Heaven! Agreed? Well, if you do agree, you must definitely take a break and visit this hunting lodge where all the trekkers, visitors gather for a coffee break! Also, you will be able to spot some pictures which display flora and fauna. There is a small souvenir shop nearby for people to browse book related to this park. A perfect place to take a break, huh?

3. Explore wildlife

This national park is home to 150 animals and 750 species of plants. Amazing, huh? From Sambar Deer to  Wood Pigeon, there is a huge variety here. You will be able to easily spot the birds and animals from a distance itself. And yes, never miss taking a click! If you are a wildlife lover, never miss this experience.

4. Witness the beautiful Baker’s Falls

This 20 metres height misty waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka. A visit to this fall is surely a treat to your eyes and soul. Also, many travellers do choose this place to click there much awaited Instagram worth click!

Traveller Tip 💡

Be quiet when you walk around the park as too much noise might scare the wild animals. Especially while clicking pictures of the animals, make sure you click without any noise.

Interesting Places To Visit Around The Horton Plains National Park

Oh yes, here is a bonus for you readers!

1. Ravana Falls

Yes! As you all guessed, this falls was named after the Sri Lankan King Ravana. Two hours away from the park is where you will find the Ravana Falls. You can climb above the rocks and get closer to the falls to witness the mesmerizing beauty of this waterfall. While climbing the rocks, make sure you also watch your step as it might be very slippery.

2. Bambarakanda Falls

Bambarakanda Falls is just an hour away from the park and is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka. The fall drops from a height of 263 metres and is capable to make any of the traveller awestruck with its beauty! This waterfall is surely worth a visit.

Isn’t Horton Plains National Park more beautiful than what you have thought? It is, huh? Get ready to capture the best of views! All you need to do is to check out the Pickyourtrail website and have a look at the exciting Sri Lanka trip packages. Why wait when you have the correct travel planner here! It’s time to Unwrap the world with Pickyourtrail!