Horton Plains National Park

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A green highland plateau about 2000 meters above sea level accompanied by Kirigalpoththa and Thutupula Kanda the second and third highest peaks of the island. Horton plains provide excellent hikes and views. It is home to large herds of Sri Lankan sambar deers. It is also the headwaters of the country's three main rivers, Mahaweli, Kelani and Walawe. The gates are open from 6 AM till 6 PM, it's best to start the hike about 6 AM to have the park for yourself.

Horton plains is among one of the most beautiful and important wildlife areas in Sri Lanka. It is recorded that there are about 750 plants found in the area belonging to 20 families. Horton plains is home for many animals including twenty four species of mammals and eighty seven species of birds. Wildlife researchers believe that there are about 1, 500 to 2, 000 Sri Lankan sambar deers living in the park. Among the mammals are wild boars, rusty-spotted cats, Sri Lankan leopards and grizzled giant squirrels. And among the birds there are Sri Lankan white-eye, Sri Lankan wood pigeon, junglefowl, spurfowl. However the larger animals are very exclusive, but it is a perfect place for bird watchers.

Tickets are on the high side for foreigners but you won’t regret the hike when you do that. It takes about 6 hours to complete the tour and get back, make sure to carry enough water and snacks. Not to forget leech protection. Don't forget to check the weather forecast, if there are heavy rains in the forecast better to avoid. From Nuwara Eliya to Horton plains a tuk tuk would cost about 4500 LKR.