World's End

EXPLORE

World's End

Horton Plains National Park is located at an elevation of 2,100–2,300 m (6,900–7,500 ft) and encompasses montane grassland and cloud forest. The area is a deeply researched biodiversity hotspot with many species endemic to the region. Situated 32 km from Nuwara Eliya, known earlier as Maha Eliya Thenna (Great Open Plains) it was renamed after the then Governor Sir Robert Wilmot Horton travelled here for a meeting with a local Chieftain in 1834. The local population residing around this area used to ascend the mountains to mine gems, iron ore and fell timber. This came to an end in 1873 when a Government order was issued to “ to leave all montane forests above 5,000 ft undisturbed”. Horton Plains was designated a wildlife sanctuary 1969 and because of its biodiversity wealth was elevated to a National Park in 1988. Folklore states that the plateau was the landing spot of King Ravana’s helicopter “Dandumonaraya” put to nefarious use during the abduction of Princess Sita.

Horton Plains comes to a sudden end at World's End and  Baker's Falls are spectacular tourist attractions all in a mornings walking trek. Though not the actual world’s end, the sheer drop of about 1,200m can make one easily think so and visitors are warned to be extremely cautious and resist the temptation to take selfies.

On a clear day you can see the Indian Ocean 81 km to the south. The entire round trip ramble of 9.5km would take a leisurely 3 hours through the plains, Worlds end to Baker’s Falls and back to the park entrance. One is advised to get into warm clothing and good walking shoes and be there early to avoid the mist.