Batticaloa to Horton Plains National Park

Batticaloa to Horton Plains National Park

Horton Plains National Park is a beautiful and diverse national park located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endemic Sri Lankan leopard. Horton Plains is also a popular destination for hiking and trekking, with several trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Language

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. However, English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. You should have no problem communicating in English in Horton Plains National Park.

Currency

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. It is also possible to use credit cards and debit cards in most places.

Distance

The distance from Batticaloa to Horton Plains National Park is approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles). The journey takes about 5 hours by car.

How to Reach

There are several ways to get from Batticaloa to Horton Plains National Park.

• By car: The most convenient way to get to Horton Plains National Park is by car. You can rent a car in Batticaloa and drive to the park. The journey takes about 5 hours.
• By bus: There are several buses that run from Batticaloa to Nuwara Eliya, the nearest town to Horton Plains National Park. The journey takes about 6 hours.
• By train: There is a train that runs from Batticaloa to Nanu Oya, the nearest train station to Horton Plains National Park. The journey takes about 7 hours.

Expenses

The cost of getting to Horton Plains National Park from Batticaloa will vary depending on the mode of transport you choose.

• By car: The cost of renting a car in Batticaloa is around $30 per day. The cost of fuel is around $1 per liter.
• By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Batticaloa to Nuwara Eliya is around $5.
• By train: The cost of a train ticket from Batticaloa to Nanu Oya is around $10.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Horton Plains National Park is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is generally clear and sunny, and the trails are less crowded.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and cafes located in Horton Plains National Park. You can find a variety of food options, including Sri Lankan cuisine, Western food, and snacks. You can also bring your own food and drinks into the park.

Where to Go

There are several things to see and do in Horton Plains National Park.

• World's End: This is a famous viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is said that on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Indian Ocean.
• Baker's Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall located in the park. You can take a short hike to the falls, and there is a pool where you can swim.
• Mini World's End: This is a smaller viewpoint that offers similar views to World's End. It is less crowded, so it is a good option if you want to avoid the crowds.
• Thotupola Kanda: This is the highest mountain in the park. You can hike to the summit, and there is a lookout tower where you can enjoy the views.
• Kirigalpotta: This is a sacred mountain located in the park. It is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon in Sri Lanka.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Horton Plains National Park.

1. What is the entrance fee for Horton Plains National Park? The entrance fee for Horton Plains National Park is $10 for foreign visitors.
2. What are the opening hours for Horton Plains National Park? The park is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
3. Can I camp in Horton Plains National Park? Camping is not permitted in Horton Plains National Park.
4. Can I bring my dog to Horton Plains National Park? Dogs are not allowed in Horton Plains National Park.
5. What should I wear when visiting Horton Plains National Park? It is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing when visiting Horton Plains National Park. The weather can be unpredictable, so it is also a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella.