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Sri Lanka has spectacular natural gifts. Horton Plains is one of them. It is in the highlands of the Central Province, Sri Lanka. The beauty and the purity of nature are evident in all pieces of land. Horton Plains is a lovely destination for both locals and foreign tourists. The founder of these highlands is said to be the planter, Thomas Farr. The place has gotten the name as an honor to the governor of Ceylon, Sir Robert Wilmot Horton.
Not only for tourism, but Horton Plains are also very important for natural phenomena. These plains are the headwaters for rivers, Mahaweli, Kalani, and Walawe. Rivers like Belihuloya, Bogawantalawa, Kirikati, and Agra are also nourished by Horton Plains. Consequently, Horton plains hoist a greater identity among tourists all over the world. Despite this, there are a lot of things to do and see all around Horton Plains. Let us dig in to see the things that Horton Plains offers to its guests.
Horton Plains National Park.
The most famous destination in Horton Plains is the National Park which has 34 years of history. Since then, the Horton Plains National Park continues to be the sparkling natural giant in the tourist industry of Sri Lanka.
There’s a humid climate and it is always drizzling here. Therefore, to get a magnificent view of the place without any interruptions, the months from January to March are considered to be the best season. It is good to stick with the period because of the weather conditions and because this is a protected area. The months from January to March are drier than other months in the year. Even within these months, a thick mist will be there covering the mountain ranges. You know that the early risen bird catches the first fly. Just like that if you want to catch up on the crisp morning vibe at the site you should go to the site early in the morning. Then you can witness how the clouds cover the ever-young mountain tops and the wet grasslands with dew.
The environment at Horton Plains to be precise is something to discuss. Because this is a kingdom for endemic plants and animals. When it comes to the plants, more than half of the land is covered with montane grasslands and the rest of the vegetation is subtropical montane forests. There’s a diverse collection of herbaceous and tropical plants. There are grasslands, tea gardens, and small woody jungles all around. Some of the plants that you will get to see are Viola, Fragaria, and Plantago. So, Horton Plains is green heaven for all who love to be with nature.
Also, there are many species of animals on the way to the “World’s End Cliff”, which we are going to talk about later. It is said that there are about 24 species of mammals. Purple-faced langurs, rusty-spotted cats, Sri Lankan leopards, and wild boars are such commonly seen mammals at Horton Plains. Apart from that several species of birds and reptiles are also known to live here. In past, there have lived elephants also. But for some natural and unnatural reasons, they are no longer living here. So, if you are a person who feels a fondness for flora and fauna Horton Plains is a destination that you should never miss visiting.
Let’s first see what the “World’s End Cliff” is. When it is Horton Plains, it is all about the World’s End Cliff. That is, the very reason for Horton Plains to become more popular is this cliff. This is a steep plunge of height around 800m to 900 m. The cliff is deadly yet scenic. This is a tentative stop for many backpackers. So, the hike towards the World’s End Cliff is the most famous thing that travelers do here. The route is enriched with lively flora and fauna. They get the chance to witness many endemic animals and natural creatures like waterfalls, grasslands, and jungles. On this route, you get to see the mini world’s end and Baker’s Falls. So, this journey is not exhausting. Every step will make you see something refreshing and lively. The cliff is colder or sometimes it is unpredictable. So, it is always good to be prepared. You can carry some warm clothes. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes that make climbing easier. If you are a versed hiker, you know all these tricks. But if you are a maiden, it is advisable to know these before you come here.
Since this is a reserved place, you are not allowed to take food from outside and eat here and there. Because that will lead to pollution of the surrounding area. Consequently, there is a cafeteria inside the site. This will be the only place you can dine in. So, good food is available at a favorable price.
Moreover, there are some more splendid places for sightseeing.
Ohiya.
This is a very beautiful village that retains the honor of having eye-catching tourist destinations in the Badulla district. Baker’s Falls, Horton Plains Kalupahana Trail, Devil’s staircase, Thotupola Kanda Nature Trail, Kirigalpotta, Diyaluma Falls, and Bambarakanda Falls are some inviting spots to be vacationing which are located here. This means that most of the beauty spots in Central province are in Ohiya.
Kirigalpotta and Kalupahana are the choicest places for camping around Horton Plains. Kirigalpotta is a paradise for hikers who come to visit Horton Plains. The trail is located at Horton Plains National Park and the trail ends at the Kirigalpotta summit. The imposing fact is that Kirigalpotta is the second highest mountain in Sri Lanka. So, after the hike to the world’s end, try climbing Kirigalpotta. That will be enjoyable I bet!
Devil’s staircase is perfect for venturesome hikers and adventurers. Because it is not a normal route we used to hike. This is a very narrow path from Kalupahana to Ohiya. The journey is rough. Thus, there’s a practice among hikers to finish half of the journey in one day and camp at the “Devil’s Staircase Camping Grounds”. The rest of the journey starts the next day. Campers spend all night awaken witnessing the calm night skies and chilling weather at the site.
Diyaluma Falls, Bambarakanda Falls, and Baker’s falls which are in Ohiya are cascading vibrantly all through the year. So, during the tourism season, these places get filled with tourists from all over the world.
Bambarakanda Falls.
The tallest waterfall in the country is Bambarakanda Falls. You must make it here if you come to visit Horton Plains. Kuda Oya is the It is just one hour stroll from Horton Plains National Park. March to May is considered the best time to visit Bambarakanda Falls. Because the rainfall is moderate in this season. During the monsoon, the waterfall hides its vibrant calmness and becomes violent. Therefore, the months from October to February are not a good season to come here.
The route is not harsh. Anyone can easily get there. There’s a sitting area near the fall that gives the best view of the fall. So, the tourists can enjoy the stunning view of the waterfall. You can also take a hike to the top of the waterfall. It is only a 1.6km hike. The environment is so pleasing and there is another waterfall in the jungle. That is Lanka Ella in which you can take a cool bath. Whatever a tourist expects from a destination, everything is there if you come to visit Bambarakanda Falls.
Belihuloya.
Belihuloya is a village around Horton Plains National Park. Something is interesting! Belihuloya has a transitioning point between the dry zone and wet zone. No doubt Belihuloya is enriched with a diverse range of flora and fauna and the climate here is something that you should come and feel. The village is distinguished for the waterfalls, Bambarakanda, Brampton, Hirikatuwa, Surathalee Ella, Papulagala Ella, Baker’s Falls, and Pahanthuda Ella. Also, you can visit the Samanala Dam just 9 km away from the village. So, Belihuloya has got many spectacular creatures worth visiting.
Baker’s falls.
Another famous spot around Horton Plains is Baker’s Falls. It is located in Belihuloya. It has got its name as a tribute to the British explorer, Sir Samuel Baker. Also, you can see the waterfall when you are trolling to World’s End via Baker’s loop. If not, you can use the footpath from Pattipola or the town of Ohiya. You don’t have to worry since many local guides are looking forward to helping you.
Baker’s Fall is not too tall. And it is surrounded by thick wood with montane shrubs and tree ferns. Also, some wild animals are living inside the wood. It will not be a good idea to bathe here. Because there are caves inside the water, and you can’t see them from the outside.
This place will be a place that your heart yearns to visit again and again, once you come one time.
Gommolli Kanda.
The place has got a funny name in Sinhala meaning “Hump of a bull”. The reason is the mountain range looks like a hump of a bull. The Balathuduwa mountain is also located near Gommoli Kanda. These two spots have become campgrounds for travelers. The place is opulent with green views and calming breeze. The travelers say that the weather is so pleasing on the cliff. Anyone, especially versed hikers who visit Horton Plains dares to miss the view from Gommolli Kanda.
Residence and Restaurants.
Horton plains is a perfect bait for globetrotters, frequent flyers, backpackers, explorers, fellow travelers, and especially eco-tourists all over the world. There is always a lot to see and a lot to enjoy. So now you might have got the idea that you should visit Horton Plains if you are planning a tour. Make it to Sri Lanka and Horton Plains on the top of your wish list. It will take at least a week to complete your journey around Horton Plains if you are willing to enjoy the full package that Horton Plains offers. So, a better place to stay is essential, nevertheless.
To be true, there are many hotels and guest houses around these tourist spots. Further, finding a better place that meets your needs is not that difficult. La Grande Villa, Kent Cottage, The Mist Holiday Bungalow, The Westburry Palace, and Leisure Nest Hotel are some of the hotels with good ratings. But you can always search for which place suits you the best, considering your budget, the number of rooms you need and how many days you are planning to stay. You can search online for the availability and other factors you are concerned about.
Other than that, there are restaurants with good food. Whenever, wherever you wander around, you will always find restaurants with good food. Fine Village, The Nature Rest, Suwarna Lelee Rest & Café, and Ambewela Farm Fresh restaurant are only a fistful number of restaurants. Some of the restaurants provide delivery facilities and some do not. But takeaway and dine-in are available in all the restaurants.
Horton Plains is indeed a marvelous destination that you should come to at least once. If you are thinking about where to go during this upcoming vacation. You are very welcome to Horton Plains, Sri Lanka.
Featured Image Credit: PhilipYb Studio
