Horton Plains National Park Tour From Nuwara Eliya With Holiday Walkers Srilanka

Nuwara Eliya , Sri Lanka

Horton Plains National Park Tour From Nuwara Eliya With Holiday Walkers Srilanka

Active

5h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Horton Plains National Park offers amazing hikes amongst the shadows of Sri Lanka’s second and third-highest mountains; Kirigalpotta (2395m) and Totapola (2359m), each of which rear up from the edges of the plateau. The ‘plains’ form a plateau of rises and fall over 2000m high, covered by wild grasslands and interspersed with patches of thick forest, rocky outcrops, filigree waterfalls and misty lakes. The plateau’s sudden end is famously known as ‘World’s End’, a stunning near 880m drop.

Available options

Car

Sedan Car<br/>Pickup included

Van

KDH Van<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

WiFi on board

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

The Horton Plains National Park, is a protected area covered by mountain grassland and cloud forest. This plateau at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 meters (6,900–7,500 ft.) and has been said by many to resemble the African savannah. The National Park is unlike any other in the island; it’s as beautiful as it is eerily, and offers a world that is oddly different from any other part of Sri Lanka. The Horton Plains National Park is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region. The Horton Plains are the headwaters of three major Sri Lankan rivers, the Mahaweli, Kelani, and Walawe. In Sinhala the plains are known as Maha Eliya Plains.

The Ambewela farm was started by the British in early 1940s the New Zealand farm was started in 1960 with the assistance from the New Zealand government and is also managed by the Ambewela Farm. Only the New Zealand Farm is open to visitors out of the two. This is a popular destination for visitors of Nuwara Eliya, specially for families with children.

What's not included

All Fees and Taxes

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque hill station in Sri Lanka's Central Province, known for its cool climate, lush tea plantations, and colonial-era architecture. Often referred to as 'Little England,' it offers a unique blend of British colonial heritage and stunning natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Horton Plains National Park

A stunning national park known for its rolling hills, cloud forests, and diverse wildlife. The park is a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.

Nature Half to full day Moderate (Entrance fee approximately 1000 LKR or 5 USD)

Gregory Lake

A picturesque artificial lake named after a former British governor. It's a popular spot for boating, picnicking, and leisurely walks.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget (Boat rental approximately 500 LKR or 2.5 USD)

Pedro Tea Estate

One of the oldest tea plantations in Sri Lanka, offering guided tours and a glimpse into the tea-making process.

Cultural 2-3 hours Moderate (Tour fee approximately 1000 LKR or 5 USD)

Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

One of the oldest and most scenic golf courses in Sri Lanka, set amidst rolling hills and tea plantations.

Sports Half day Moderate to Expensive (Green fees vary)

Single Tree Mountain

A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Nuwara Eliya and the surrounding tea plantations. It's a popular spot for photography and relaxation.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast Vegetarian (without egg), can be made vegan

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried with spices.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in spiced meat or fish broth, wrapped in a banana leaf.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made with fish

Wood Apple Juice

A refreshing juice made from the wood apple fruit, often mixed with sugar and spices.

Drink Vegan, can be made with or without sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking in Horton Plains National Park Trekking to Adam's Peak Tea plantation tours Boating on Gregory Lake Tea tasting at Pedro Tea Estate Scenic drives Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy Exploring colonial architecture in Nuwara Eliya

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers the best weather with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nuwara Eliya is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)

By train

Nuwara Eliya Railway Station

By bus

Nuwara Eliya Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Nuwara Eliya. They connect the city center to nearby attractions and towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nuwara Eliya Town Horton Plains Pedro

Day trips

Ellington

30 km (19 miles) • Half day

A scenic area known for its waterfalls, tea plantations, and hiking trails.

Adam's Peak

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

A sacred mountain known for its challenging hike and stunning sunrise views.

Kandy

70 km (43 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its cultural attractions, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Festivals

Nuwara Eliya Flower Show Festival • September Poya Day • Full moon days (varies by month)

Pro tips

Visit Horton Plains National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and mist.
Try the local tea varieties and visit a tea plantation for a tea plucking experience.
Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
Use the local bus system for an affordable and authentic travel experience.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites.