The Allure of Horton Plains
Posted by Adventurer Isuru Thambawita
Sri Lanka better known as the pearl of the Indian ocean is synonymous with a celestial world for its unrivalled natural beauty enriched by tranquillity , picturesque sceneries and fragrance of wildflowers. Speaking of Horton Plains we can not lose sight of the two mountains called Kirigalpotta and Totupola Kanda because they have occupied a vital role in our country as the highest mountains in Sri Lanka. Kirigalpotta situated near the city of Nuwara Eliya , as you know is the second highest mountain in Sri Lanka. Totupola Kanda in Nuwara Eliya district is the third highest mountain. However both mountains have already captured the hearts of hikers. Mountain ranges enveloped in mist , clouds sailing across the sky over the mountains, birds flying over the treetops and the tranquillity which depicts through the mountains bring the glory to the city of Nuwara Eliya.
Adventurous journey by train -:
One can reach Horton Plains via two ways. One is Ohiya Station which is only 10 KM away from the Park entrance. Next one is at Pattipola station which is the highest railway station in Sri Lanka. There can be found many reasons why you should visit Horton Plains. Speaking of the journey to Horton Plains by train , no doubt that it is adventurous. When you are comfortably settled in your seats after taking your tickets and having your luggage packed into the compartment , you feel a great relief. Undoubtedly in a train you might come across someone well informed whose conversation does much to relieve the tedium of your long journey to Horton Plains. Another relief is the moment when the train after a long loud whistle glides smoothly out of the station. As the train pulls out of the station , a cloud of white smoke which billowed from the funnel can be seen blowing in the wind. As the train in which you travell hurries on at the speed of 80 miles an hour , changing panoramas of picaresque sceneries pass before your eyes. In passing through mountainous villages , the train runs along viaduct spanning a deep valley and at another time dives into a dark tunnel bored straight through the middle of an opposing hill. Little kids can be seen screaming, shouting , crying and singing as the train dives into a tunnel. No doubt that such memories will stay in your heart.
Why you should visit Horton Plains -:
Nuwara Eliya is the cradle of natural beauty. So to speak there can be seen many picturesque sceneries and places including Horton Plains. Moreover Horton Plains National park is regarded as a home to over 750 species of plants including Ferns , Orchids , Lichens. Except for the species of plants , there can be found around 150 animals including Panthers , Monkeys , Loris , Pigs and wild pigeons.
World's End -:
Perhaps you might have heard of the everlasting love story between Monika and Britto said to be as deep as the ocean and as boundless as the sky. Even now anyone can see candles and lamps alight near their tombs. World's end which is located within the Horton Plains National park in Nuwara Eliya district is a sheer plunge of 800 meters. You can catch a glimpse of Siripada ( Adam's Peak) from the world's End. All in all it can be said that Horton Plains is a celestial place on the land of Sri Lanka.
