World's End2,100m

Horton Plains National Park

Horton Plains National Park is Sri Lanka's most popular hiking destination, famous for the dramatic 880-meter drop at World's End and the picturesque Baker's Falls. Located at 2,100 meters elevation, this unique highland plateau offers a completely different experience from Sri Lanka's lowland safari parks.

What makes Horton Plains unique? It's the only national park in Sri Lanka where visitors can walk freely without a guide. The 9.5 km circular trail takes you through misty cloud forests, rolling grasslands, and to two of Sri Lanka's most iconic viewpoints.

The park is home to endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, including the sambar deer that graze openly on the plains, purple-faced langurs, and numerous endemic birds. The otherworldly landscape of windswept grasslands and gnarled cloud forest creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in tropical Asia.

Wildlife You'll See

Sambar Deer

Often grazing openly on plains

very high

Purple-faced Langur

In cloud forest sections

moderate

Wild Boar

moderate

Giant Squirrel

moderate

Sri Lankan Leopard

Present but rarely seen

rare

Safari Options

half day Safari

Self-guided (entry fee only)

The classic 9.5 km circular trail to World's End and Baker's Falls. No guide required.

Duration: 3-4 hoursBest time: 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Safari Tips

Arrive at 6 AM - World's End clouds over by 9-10 AM
Wear layers - it's cold at 2,100m elevation (10-15°C)
Bring rain gear - weather changes quickly
Walk anti-clockwise to reach World's End first (while clear)
No food allowed in the park (to protect wildlife)
The trail is 9.5 km - allow 3-4 hours
Combine with a visit to Nuwara Eliya

Frequently Asked Questions

What is World's End?

World's End is a sheer cliff with an 880-meter (2,887 ft) drop, offering dramatic views across Sri Lanka's southern plains. On clear mornings, you can see all the way to the coast, 80 km away.

What time should I arrive at Horton Plains?

Arrive at 6 AM when the park opens. World's End typically clouds over by 9-10 AM, so early arrival is essential for clear views. Start hiking immediately and reach World's End within 1.5 hours.

How difficult is the Horton Plains hike?

The 9.5 km circular trail is moderate difficulty. It's mostly flat with some gentle inclines. The main challenge is the distance and cool, potentially misty conditions. Allow 3-4 hours.

Do I need a guide at Horton Plains?

No, Horton Plains is the only national park in Sri Lanka where you can walk freely without a guide. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.

Can I see wildlife at Horton Plains?

Yes, sambar deer are commonly seen grazing on the open plains, often very close to the trail. You may also spot purple-faced langurs, giant squirrels, and endemic birds. Leopards are present but rarely seen.

Quick Facts

Famous ForWorld's End

Elevation2,100m

Main Trail9.5 km

Best ViewBefore 9 AM

Established1988

Size31.6 km²

Best Time to Visit

JanuaryFebruaryMarchApril

Arrive before 9 AM to see World's End before clouds obscure the view. January to April has the clearest weather. The park is accessible year-round but can be rainy and misty from May to September.

Entry Fees

Foreign Adult$25 USD

Foreign Child$15 USD

Vehicle300 LKR

Getting There

From Colombo

220 km (5-6 hours by car)

Nearest Town

Nuwara Eliya / Ohiya

Where to Stay

Jetwing St. Andrew's

luxury$150-250/night

Heritance Tea Factory

luxury$180-300/night

Farr Inn

eco lodge$50-80/night

Nuwara Eliya guesthouses

budget$20-40/night

Resources

Horton Plains National Park - Wikipedia UNESCO World Heritage Book Park Entry Permits

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