Adventurous Escapes in Nuwara Eliya: Horton Plains and Beyond
A holiday in Nuwara Eliya entails involving oneself in a plethora of pastimes and pursuits. These include trekking to Horton Plains National Park and exploring the region’s beautiful cascades.
About Horton Plains National Park
Featuring the distinct elements of a plateau which encompasses towering peaks in one direction and dense jungle & large plains on the other, the Horton Plains National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s finest hiking and trekking routes that has won the hearts of the global community as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ideal for those wanting to camp out in the wilds and in the company of an array of animals that call the reserve home, the National Park also affords ease of access to summiting two mountains in the likes of Kirigalpotta and Thotupola Kanda respectively. In short, Horton Plains National Park is a leisure a traveller’s dream come true for it contains a wide spectrum of sights and sounds to behold and be one with. This mesmerising location is just a relaxing drive from Araliya Green City, Araliya Green Hills, and Araliya Red hotels that offer pleasant stays to guests in Nuwara Eliya.
What parts of Horton Plains would warrant exploring?
While a number of routes are spread out that would help you maximise your time here, it is highly recommended that you head straight for World’s End which aside from the wildlife is arguably, the primary reason as to why hikers and nature lovers commune in large numbers here. Although, known to involve a demanding hike, the experience will be worth every step you take. Thus, one’s hiking expedition will culminate at a certain point where a sheer drop of around 800 meters will warmly welcome you to World’s End. From the viewing platform found on the edge of the cliff, you will be privileged to encounter mist-shrouded mountains and emerald-coloured deep valleys that will leave you in complete awe of World’s End identity and value as a natural attraction. Next up is Baker’s Falls which is a tributary of Belihuloya and noted as being one of the more picturesque of waterfalls that you will encounter in the Emerald Isle. Plummeting over rocks from about 20 meters in the air, Baker’s Falls makes for outstanding photography opportunities given the numerous backdrops that are found in and around its spectacular setting. As one of the finest places to see in Nuwara Eliya, those based at Araliya Green City can easily schedule day trips to Horton Plains National Park.
Explore the Park’s inhabitants
Time spent here will see to it that you come into contact with a lengthy list of plant life whose numbers exceed 750 species while over 150 types of animals reside within the enormity of Horton Plains National Park. With reference to the former, varying species of orchids and ferns will meet your eye no matter where your gaze rests at. However, in case of the latter the spectacle will be hard to ignore for you are bound to stumble upon the Purple-faced Langur, Wild Boar, Red Slender Loris and the Sambar Deer which feature prominently at the park. Further, a host of endemic species ranging from the Stripe-necked Mongoose and Rhino-horn Lizard can be witnessed during one’s journeys. Before you leave, be sure to scour for the Sri Lankan Leopard which is as elusive an animal that you will find at Horton Plains National Park.
Beeline for Devon Falls
Found 30 km from Araliya Green City are the mesmeric scenes of Devon Falls which is the 19th tallest waterfall in the country. Hurtling down from 97 meters in the air, Devon Falls is bounded by eucalypti trees and gorgeous valleys that appear to go on for miles on end and in turn, affords ease of access via two viewpoints. While troops of Macaque monkeys will be your constant companions, the panoramas of a steep cliff, gushing waters and cool breeze will have you in your elements no sooner you charter a course for Devon Falls. Before arriving, ensure that you have on your sturdiest pair of walking shoes or hiking boots along with plenty of supplies to tap into.