National Wild Parks Sri Lanka

Udawalawe National Park

Is situated in the dry zone and is a large area of scrub, grass and old plantation around a large reservoir. Udawalawe National Park is very well known for its outstanding scenic beauty and wealth of fauna species, particularly mammals and birds. One of the main attractions of this park is the opportunity to view elephants at a really close range.

Herds of elephants, populations of sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, water buffalo common langur, jackal, sloth bear, leopard, black napped hare, endemic golden palm civet and mongoose are some of the animals that can be sighted at this national park. Udawalawe is also a great place to watch water birds. Rare visitors and breeding residents such as the Indian cormorant and osprey can be found on the reservoir. Notable endemic species are the Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka spurfowl, malabar pied hornbill, Sri Lanka grey hornbill and brown-capped babbler.


Wasgomuwa National Park

Also located in the dry zone, Wasgomuwa National Park is almost completely surrounded by large rivers on all its sides. Probably one of the best places in the island for near wildlife fanatics as it contains more wildlife, in terms of both wild fauna and flora. 23 species of mammals, 143 species of birds (5 of which are endemic), 35 species of reptiles (of which 7 are endemic), 15 species of amphibians, 17 species of fish and 52 species of butterflies are known to be found here.

Populations of around 150 elephants freely roam the park. Other interesting animals you could catch a glimpse of include the leopard as well as other endemic animals such as the purple faced langur, sloth bear, spotted deer, sambar and birds like the painted stork, oriental darter, purple swamphen, Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka grey and malabar pied hornbills, white-rumped shama and in winter many migrant waders and ducks.
Both the saltwater and the freshwater crocodiles take refuge in the waters of this national park. The park also harbors some reptiles and amphibians like the endemic skink and the rare endemic palm frond frog.

Bundala National Park


A simply picture perfect national park bordering the ocean fringed with sand dunes, and dotted with numerous lagoons. The five lagoons of this park are some of the most important wintering areas for migratory shore birds in the country, regularly accommodating over 15,000 at any one time! This park is the last refuge of the greater flamingo and during the northeast monsoon up to 2000 flamingoes have been seen.

You don’t have to look too hard to spot elephant, spotted deer and wild buffalo among the thorny scrub jungle in the park. The open habitat makes it ideal to spot other mammals such as the endemic toque macaque, common langur, jackal, leopard, fishing cat, rusty spotted cat and porcupine. Sea turtles love the golden beaches and sand dunes of Bundala, and frequent here often to nest. Among reptiles’ the mugger crocodile, estuarine crocodile, common monitor, python, endemic flying snake and beautiful star tortoise can be sighted here. The park is the home of every species of water bird resident in the country and during the northern winter, it is the final destination for countless numbers species. It is also home to several species of migratory waterfowl. The rare black necked stork is said to be a breeding resident in Sri Lanka.
Bundala’s richness in birds’ species is why it was declared a Ramsar Site in 1990, having international significance for wetland birds.


Yala National Park

The largest national park in Sri Lanka formed by a completely diverse landscape ranging from the ocean to jungles, scrubland, freshwater rivers and lakes, which support a large variety of wildlife. Over 30 species of mammals are known to be found here, including threatened species such as the sloth bear, leopard, elephant and water buffalo. You’ll probably have the best chance of sighting a leopard here than anywhere else on the island.

Some 120-130 birds’ species can be seen at Yala. Raptors like the crested serpent eagle, and white bellied sea eagle and water birds including the lesser flamingo, pelican, painted stork and night heron can be spotted in the lagoons. The north-east monsoon is seen to attract thousands of migrating waterfowl including, pintail, white winged black tern and eurasian curlew which mix with residents such as whistling duck and yellow wattled lapwing. Other interesting birds’ species you could spot at Yala are the Sri Lanka junglefowl, black-necked stork, and pompadour green pigeon, three species of bee-eaters and large flocks of flamingoes.
Yala is also home to a variety of reptiles such as crocodiles, the venomous Russel’s viper and a variety of sea turtles. The endangered olive ridley and leatherback turtles return to the Yala coastline often for nesting.

Minneriya National Park

Virtually built around the Minneriya reservoir, this park is certainly one of the most scenic in the island. During the dry season from June to September, the reservoir becomes a favorite gathering place for scores of elephants who get together to eat, drink and be merry. Many species of mammals such as sambar, spotted deer, leopard, sloth bear and endemics like the toque macaque and purple faced langur are favorite attractions.

Minneriya is full of a vast number of birds. 160 species are found here. Look out for the Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka hanging parrot, Sri Lanka brown capped babbler, crimson fronted barbet, black crested bulbul, all of which are endemics. Nine species of amphibians have been reported to live in this park and among them are endemic and endangered slender wood frog and common tree frog. Endemic and endangered lizards like the red lipped lizard are also found here. 26 species of fish are found in the reservoirs.


Kaudulla National Park

Kaudulla is the newest national park and forms a corridor for elephants migrating between Somawathiya National Park in the north to Minneriya National Park, further south. Is a very popular place for elephant lovers, as you get to see large numbers of elephants close up. Leopards, sambar deer and the occasional sloth bear are also interesting animals to watch out for. If you’re looking for new and exciting ways to see and photograph wildlife, then a catamaran ride on the expansive Kaudulla reservoir is something that just shouldn’t be missed. Kaudulla is also an excellent location for bird watching.

Horton Plains

Strikingly different from the other national parks in that, visitors to Horton Plains are allowed to walk on their own on the designated tracks. The scenic beauty and wildlife of Horton Plains which is a remote 2000m high plateau just south of Nuwara Eliya is set to impress even the most discerning traveler. Most habitats and endemic plants and animals representative of our wet and montane zones are sure to be found here. This national park is abundant with some of the smaller endemic mammals like sambar, endemic toque macaque, purple faced langur, leopard, wild otter, long tailed giant squirrel, horned lizard and bear monkey. If you are really keen on seeing the Sri Lanka whistling thrush, Sri Lanka magpie, dull-blue flycatcher, orange-billed babbler and the black-throated munia then Horton Plains is definitely worth a visit, as this is one of the best places in the whole island to see them. This park is a paradise for butterflies as well. Various raptors such as crested serpent eagle and mountain hawk eagle can be seen circling over the plains. Among reptiles are snake and the wide spread agamid.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Sinharaja Forest Reserve or ‘Kingdom of the Lion’ is located in the south-west part of the island and is one of the last remaining areas of tropical rain forest in Sri Lanka. Sinharaja was designated a World Biosphere Reserve in 1978 and a World Heritage Site in 1988.

Because of the dense vegetation, wildlife is not as easily seen as at dry-zone national parks such as Yala. You won’t find any elephants and the 15 or so leopards are rarely seen. The commonest larger mammal is the endemic purple faced langur. An unusual and fascinating spectacle is when birds from many different species move together in mixed feeding flocks in search of food. As the flock approaches you’ll see and hear the noisy calls of orange-billed babblers and a greater racket-tailed drongo. As the birds pass, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the quieter, more inconspicuous, members of the flock. Some of the fascinating birds found in Sri Lanka you can find right here at Sinharaja include the Sri Lanka spurfowl, Sri Lanka junglefowl, green-billed coucal, red-faced malkoha, blue magpie, spot-winged thrush, scaly thrush, white-faced starling, chestnut-backed owlet, black-throated munia and the Sri Lanka myna.

Sinharaja is an absolute treasure trove of endemic species. More than 60% of the trees are endemic and many of them are considered rare. There is much endemic wildlife, especially birds but the reserve is also home to over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic species of mammals and butterflies as well as many kinds of insects, reptiles and rare amphibians.


Udawattakele Bird Sanctuary

This is the only reserve in the whole of Sri Lanka to be situated in the suburbs of a city. The Udawattakele Sanctuary rests on the northern edge of the Kandy city just above the Temple of the Tooth. The forests are a haven for birds and some of the birds sighted here include the layard’s parakeet, Sri Lanka hanging parrot, yellow-fronted, crimson-fronted and brown-headed barbets; golden-fronted and jerdon’s leafbirds; stork-billed, common and oriental dwarf kingfishers.

Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Situated just a short distance off the coastal road on the south coast of the island between Tangalle and Hambantota. The gorgeous Indian Ocean and rich lagoons and mangrove swamps characterize this bird sanctuary. The Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary is an ideal location for undisturbed bird-watching. Interesting birds like the asian openbill, eurasian spoonbill, egrets, purple swamphen, black-winged stilt and many winter migrants can be sighted here.

Muthurajawela Marshes

Situated toward the southern part of Negombo, the Muthurajawela marshes meaning “swamp of royal treasure’ more than does justice to its name. Home to a staggering number of species of flora and fauna, these marshes have been declared as a sanctuary due to its high bio diversity. Water birds such as herons and egrets can be seen in abundance in the marshes. Boat rides through the marsh and the lagoon are a brilliant way of experiencing the wildlife.

Bodhinagala

Bodhinagala is quite a small area of secondary rainforest only about a two hour drive from the city of Colombo. Located in a tropical rainforest surrounding a monastery and rich in flora and fauna Bodhinagala is a great place for bird watching. Some of the birds found here include the green-billed coucal, Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka spurfowl, Sri Lanka hanging parrot, layard’s parakeet, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, barbets and the malabar trogon

Bellanwila–Attidiya Bird Sanctuary

The Bellanwila-Attidiya marsh is a precious residual fragment of the once extensive marshlands around Colombo. Rich in species it is of major importance as a wildlife refuge and well worth a visit. This urban wetland is famous for its abundant bird life. It consists of fresh water marshes, and a natural and man-made canal system. A walk along the edge of the canals or marshlands will allow you to observe many aquatic birds including the lesser whistling duck, purple swamphen, white breasted waterhen, whiskeredtern, pin tailed snipe and little green heron. Apart from aquatic birds, raptors such as brahminy kite and the marsh harrier can be commonly observed.

Kitulgala Rainforest

Situated in the wet zone of our island, the Kitulgala Rainforest is a beautiful forest reserve adjoining Peak Wilderness Sanctuary in Adam’s Peak. An absolute birder’s paradise, this rain forest is home to birds such as the Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka woodpigeon, white-faced starling, black-throated munia, dollarbird, blue magpie, chestnut-backed owlet, shy-headed laughing thrush, yellow-fronted barbet and the  Sri Lanka hanging parrot. To add to the appeal of the Kitulgala town, it is famously known for being a filming location for the epic “Bridge on the River Kwai”.

Talangama

Located on the outskirts of Colombo, Talangama is a rich and varied wetland site. Over a hundred species of birds have been recorded here. The water cock, migrant black and yellow bitterns are some of the birds that have been spotted here. Talangama is also good for the commoner butterflies and dragonflies.

Hakgala Botanical Gardens

Located within a strict nature reserve just 10km away form the picturesque Nuwara Eliya town, the Hakgala botanical garden was once a Cinchona plantation. The name Hakgala or “Jaw Rock” comes from the story in the epic Ramayana in which the Monkey God takes back a part of the mountainside in his jaw when asked by Rama to seek out a special herb! This delightful garden is now famous for its roses. There are monkeys here which are quite used to visitors. The different sections covering the hillside include a plant house, Japanese garden, wild orchid collection, old tea trails, arboretum, fruit garden, and oaks. Also famous for the interesting birdlife, Hakgala Gardens is home to birds like the Sri Lanka woodpigeon, bar-winged flycatcher-shrike, black bulbul, Sri Lanka whistling thrush, Sri Lanka bush warbler, dull-blue flycatcher and the Sri Lanka white-eye.

Knuckles / Corbett’s Gap

Lying 25km east of the city of Kandy, the Knuckles mountain range exists as a unique ecosystem separate from the rest of the central hills. True to its name this mountain range consists of five peaks and resembles the knuckles on a persons folded fist. Covering a distance of about 12 miles Knuckles extends roughly from the northwest to the southwest of Sri Lanka. The elevation of these peaks range from about 1500m to 1800m in height. The Knuckles Range is home to a wide variety of forest types in close proximity to each other making it exceptional. These forests in turn harbor wildlife including leopard, sambar, barking deer, mouse deer, wild boar, giant squirrel, purple-faced langur, toque macaque and loris as well as the otherwise rarely seen otter. Over 120 bird species recorded here include many endemic ones including the yellow-fronted barbet, dusky-blue flycatcher, ceylon lorikeet, ceylon grackle, yellow-eared bulbul and Layard’s parakeet. In addition endemic amphibians and reptiles include the kirtisinghe’s rock frog and leaf-nosed lizard, which are only found here.

Peak Wilderness Sanctuary (Adam’s Peak)

The Peak Wilderness Sanctuary is a long strip of wet zone forest and is situated in the Ratnapura District. The key attraction of this sanctuary is Adam’s Peak itself, which is the second highest summit in Sri Lanka and is a deeply religious place of worship among Buddhists, Catholics and Muslims alike. In addition to Adam’s Peak, this sanctuary offers some superb nature trails through tropical rainforests, across rivers and past lush tea plantations. Birds such as the Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka woodpigeon, white-faced starling, black-throated munia, Dollarbird, Blue Magpie, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Ashy-headed laughing thrush, yellow-fronted barbet and the Sri Lanka hanging parrot.

Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve

The Ritigala Nature Reserve is a beautiful unexplored thick forest situated right in the midst of the dry zone found just off the Anuradhapura-Habarana road. Rising 600m above the surrounding plains, Ritigala is the highest peak in the entire area and enjoys it’s own micro-climate with relatively more rainfall and a cooler climate than the rest of north central part of Sri Lanka. The area rich in unusual plants and herbs is associated with the Ramayana story in which Hanuman dropped a section of herb covered Himalaya here. Wildlife includes elephants, sloth bear, leopard and varied bird life like the Sri Lanka spurfowl, Sri Lanka junglefowl, malabar hornbills and the spot-winged thrush. Deep inside the reserve you will find partially excavated ruins of an extensive Buddhist monastery which is a popular archaeological site. There are many natural caves on the mountain slopes, some quite large in which priests would meditate. Brahmi inscriptions here date the site from the second and third centuries BC. This mysterious and exciting remote site in the jungle is definitely worth visiting, especially for those who like to venture off-the-beaten path.

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Somawathiya National Park

Somawathiya National Park is one of the four national parks designated under the Mahaweli River development project.Somawathiya Chaitya, a stupa said to be containing a relic of the tooth of the Buddha, is situated within the park. The park was created on 2 September 1986, having been originally designated a wildlife sanctuary on 9 August 1966. The park is home to many megaherbivores. The national park is located 266 kilometres (165 mi) north-east of Colombo.

Physical features

Somawathiya National Park lies in the deltaic flood plains of the Mahaweli River and contains the junction where it is forked into two branches.The two branches are the Mahaweli River, which flows north into Koddiyar bay and the lesser Verugal Oya which flows north-east into the sea. The central riparian flood plain is featured by many old river channels and contain dispersed 'villus', the waterfilled basins around among the grassy plains. There are 20 such villus is located in the park. Somawathiya and Flood plains national parks are important protected areas for the wetland system of Mahaweli River flood plains.The high quality habitat of fertile alluvial underlying layer supports a plentiful wildlife.
History

The historic Somawathiya Chaitya is located on the left bank of the Mahaweli River. The stupa was named after Princess Somawathi, the sister of King Kavan Tissa, and the wife of regional ruler Prince Abhaya. The prince Abhaya build the stupa to enshrine a relic of the tooth of the Buddha, which was in the possession of Arahat Mahinda, and named the stupa after the princes.The park is one of the four national parks set aside under the Mahaweli River development project. The other three national parks being Maduru Oya, Wasgamuwa and Flood plains.Somawathiya is contiguous with Flood Plains National Park and Trikonamadu Nature Reserve. Hurulu Forest Reserve, a part of which is a biosphere reserve is linked by the western arm of the park.
Flora
Buddhist bhikkus decorating the Somawathiya Chaitya

The waterfilled basins in the central flood plain are featured by the richness and predominance of the water-tolerant grasses and aquatic plants.The distribution of floral species in the villus shows a pattern, which is related to the period of inundation and the depth of flooding. On the edges, where wet conditions are temporary and with mild levels of flooding, there are creeping grasses such as Cynodon dactylon. Further towards the centre of the villus where the flooding is lengthier and truly hydrophytic species such as Alternanthera sessilis, Polygonum spp., Jussiaea repens, Ipomoea aquatica, Monochoria hastata, and Scirpus grossus appear. The most widespread grass species include Hygroryza aristata, Brachiaria mutica, Echinochloa colonum, Paspalum vaginatum, Digitaria longiflora, and Paspalidium spp. In a little deeper water, floating aquatic plants occur along with Nelumbo nucifera. Still in deeper water an association of manel Nymphaea stellata and the submerged aquatic plant Ceratophyllum demersum present. Some floating plants are common in all zones of the villus. Some tree species occur in the edges of the villus are Terminalia arjuna, Madhuca longifolia, Barringtonia asiatica, Mitragyna parviflora, Erythrina variegata, and Hibiscus tiliaceus. In the northern region of the park, the forest trees teeming with species such as Drypetes sepiaria, Berrya cordifolia, Diospyros ovalifolia, Dimorphocalyx glabellus, Pterospermum canescens, Manilkara hexandra and Mitragyna parviflora.

Fauna

The importance of ecology of the park is due mainly to the wide occurrence of elephants Elephas maximus estimated at about 400 within the protected area and adjacent surroundings and the rich avifauna. Although a recent 2007 study shows a much less herd of elephants in Somawathiya, 50-100 of individuals.Other notable mammalian species include jackal Canis aureus, Fishing Cat felis viverrina, Rusty-spotted Cat felis rubiginosa, leopard Panthera pardus, wild boar Sus scrofa, sambar Cervus unicolor, Water Buffalo Bubalus bubalis, Porcupine Hystrix indica, and Black-naped hare Lepus nigricollis.
The flood plain marshes are rich with avifauna.Around 75 migrant species to winter in the marshes. Usual migrants include garganey Anas querquedula, Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis, Wood Sandpiper T. glareola, Pintail Snipe Gallinago stenura, Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus, and Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa. Resident birds are Painted Stork Ibis leucocephala, Openbill Stork Anastomus oscitans, Little Egret Egretta garzetta, Cattle Egret Bubulens ibis, Pond Heron Ardeola grayii, Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus, Purple Gallinule Porphyrio porphyrio, White Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, and Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus. Within the forest area the following birds are seen, Crimson-fronted Barbet Megalaima haemacephala, Common peafowl Pavo cristatus, Malabar Pied Hornbill Anthracoceros coronatus, Thick-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum agile, Common Iora Aegithina tiphia, Junglefowl Gallus lafayetii, and Golden-fronted Leafbird Chloropsis aurifrons. While Barred Buttonquail Turnix suscitator frequents the open areas, marshy northern area is visited by Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus, crested hawk eagle Spizaetus cirrhatus, Grey-headed Fish Eagle Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus, Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis, Crested Serpent-eagle Spilornis cheela, and Painted Stork Ibis leucocephala.

Conservation

Although the park area has been greatly exploited once the human activity is removed the regeneration will be quick, because of the moisture and high carrying capacity of the villus.Both Flood Plains National Park and Somawathiya National Park are excessively important for migratory and resident waterfowl. In general, the park has been much neglected. Although an overall systems plan is in place for protected areas within the Mahaweli Region. Until the area was incorporated into the Mahaweli Environment Project was unmanaged and unprotected to a great extend. The forests of the area have been cleared for cultivation, following the move in of the tobacco cultivators with their cattle. Tobacco cultivators enters annually with several heads of cattle. Deforestation has been more extensive since the mid 1970s. Illegal logging, tobacco cultivation and grazing by cattle was scheduled to reduce gradually with the declaration of the park.

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Horton Plains National Park (Wolrd's End)

Horton Plains National Park is a protected area in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is covered by montane grassland and cloud forest. This plateau at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 metres (6,900–7,500 ft) is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region. This region was designated a national park in 1988. It is also a popular tourist destination and is situated 32 kilometres (20 mi) from Nuwara Eliya.

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. Stone tools dating back to Balangoda culture have been found here. The plains' vegetation is grasslands interspersed with montane forest, and includes many endemic woody plants. Large herds of Sri Lankan Sambar Deer feature as typical mammals, and the park is also an Important Bird Area with many species not only endemic to Sri Lanka but restricted to the Horton Plains. Forest dieback is one of the major threats to the park and some studies suggest that it is caused by a natural phenomenon. The sheer precipice of World's End and Baker's Falls are among the tourist attractions of the park.

Physical features

Horton Plains is located on the southern plateau of the central highlands of Sri Lanka.The peaks of Kirigalpoththa (2,389 metres (7,838 ft)) and Thotupola Kanda (2,357 metres (7,733 ft)), the second and the third highest of Sri Lanka, are situated to the west and north respectively. The park's elevation ranges from 2,100–2,300 metres (6,900–7,500 ft).[3] The rocks found in the park belong to the Archaean age and belong to the high series of the Precambrian era and are made up of Khondalites, Charnockites and granitic gneisses.The soil type is of the red-yellow podsolic group and the surface layer is covered with decayed organic matter.

The mean annual rainfall is greater than 2,000 millimetres (79 in). Frequent cloudy cover limits the amount of sunlight that is available to plants. The mean annual temperature is 13 °C (55 °F) but the temperature varies considerably during the course of a day, reaching as high as 27 °C (81 °F) during the day time, and dipping as low as 5 °C (41 °F) at night. During the southwest Monsoon season, the wind speed sometimes reaches gale force. Although some rain falls throughout the year, a dry season occurs from January-March. The ground frost is common in February. Mist can persist in the most of the day during the wet season.Many pools and waterfalls can be seen in the park, and Horton Plains is considered the most important watershed in Sri Lanka.The Horton Plains are the headwaters of important rivers such as the Mahaweli, Kelani, and Walawe.The plains also feeds Belihul Oya, Agra Oya, Kiriketi Oya, Uma Oya, and Bogawantalawa Oya.Due to its high elevation, fog and cloud deposit a considerable amount of moisture on the land. Slow moving streams, swamps, and waterfalls are the important wetland habitats of the park.

 History

The original name of the national park is මහ එළිය තැන්න (Maha Eliya Thenna). But in the British period the park was renamed after Sir Robert Wilmot-Horton, the British governor of Ceylon from 1831 to 1837, who travelled to the area to meet the Ratemahatmaya of Sabaragamuwa in 1836.[4] Stone tools dating back to Balangoda culture have been found here. The local population who resided in the lowlands ascended the mountains to mine gems, extract iron ore, construct irrigational canal and fell trees for timber. A 6-metre (20 ft) pollen core extracted from a mire revealed that in the late quaternary period the area had a semi-arid climate and a species-restricted plant community.

Sir Joseph Dalton Hooker had advised the British Government "to leave all Montane Forests above 5000 ft. undisturbed" and an administrative order to this effect had been issued in 1873 that prevented clearing and felling of forests in the region. Horton Plains was designated as a wildlife sanctuary on 5 December 1969,[4] and because of its biodiversity value, was elevated to a national park on 18 March 1988. The Peak Wilderness Sanctuary which lies in west is contiguous with the park. The land area covered by Horton Plains is 3,160 hectares (12.2 sq mi). Horton Plains contains the most extensive area of cloud forest still existing in Sri Lanka.On July 2010, the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka which incorporates Horton Plains National Park, Peak Wilderness Sanctuary and Knuckles Mountain Range was inscribed on the World Heritage List.

Flora
shrubs with pink flowers
Rhododendron arboreum is the predominant tree species in the park

The vegetation of the park is classified into two distinctive groups, 2,000 hectares (7.7 sq mi) of wet patana (Sinhalese for "montane grasslands") and 1,160 hectares (4.5 sq mi) of subtropical montane evergreen forests.Nearly 750 species of plants belonging to 20 families have been recorded from the park. The forest canopy reaches the height of 20 metres (66 ft) and features Calophyllum walkeri, forming communities with varieties of Myrtaceae species such as Syzygium rotundifolium, and S. sclerophyllum, and Lauraceae members including Litsea, Cinnamomum, and Actinodaphne speciosa.The undergrowth layer is characterised by Strobilanthes spp. The thickness of the Strobilanthes vegetation hinders the development of a herb layer. Dwarf bamboo species such Indocalamus and Ochlandra also found in the undergrowth layer. Rhodomyrtus tomentosa bushes specially grow in forest margin and near the mountain peaks. Species such as Gordonia and Rhododendron arboreum have spread to Sri Lanka, along the Western Ghats of South India from the Himalayas and are now common. Nearly 54 woody plant species have been recorded from the park, of which 27 (50%) are endemic to Sri Lanka.
grassland with a prominent mountain peak in the far distance
Adam's Peak seen across the grasslands of the park

Frequent fire and grazing characterises Plagioclimax communities of the grassland flora.Grasslands are dominated by Arundinella villosa and Chrysopogon zeylanicus. Waterlogged swamps or slow moving streams are found in low lying areas, and macrophytes such as Aponogeton jacobsenii, sedge species Isolopis fluitans and Utricularia spp. are found near the slow moving streams. The bamboo Chimonobambusa densifolia thrive along the banks of the streams, and near the swampy areas grass species such as Juncus prismatocarpus, Garnotia mutica, Eriocaulon spp. and Exacum trinervium are common. Tussock grasses such as Chrysopogon zeylanicus and Cymbopogon confertiflorus are found in the wet hollows.[4] Herbaceous flora of the grasslands include temperate species including Ranunculus, Pedicularis, Senecio, Gentiana and Alchemilla and also tropical species such as Eriocaulon and Ipsea speciosa (a rare endemic daffodil orchid). The most widespread boreal herbaceous plants of the park are Viola, Lobelia, Gaultheria, Fragaria, and Plantago.

Tree trunks and branches are ornamented with many species of ferns, Lycopodium, lichens, and orchids.[6] Old man's beard (Usnea barbata) hanging from branches adds to the beauty of the forests. About 16 of the orchid species being endemic. Other notable plants include shrubs such as Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Gaultheria fragrantissima, herbs, Exacum trinervium, E. walkeri, Drosera indica, and tree ferns Cyathea spp.Anzia, a foliose lichen genus belonging to Parmeliaceae family, which had not been recorded in Sri Lanka previously, was discovered here in 2007.[3] There are conflicting views on how the grasslands of the park came into being, whether man-made or natural. It is now believed that the grasslands on the dry slopes were created by forest clearance and fires while grasslands in low lying areas were naturally created by wet conditions, frost and soil erosion.Twisted trees are a common sight due to due to the speedy wind


 Fauna
front view of a large brown deer with antlers
Sri Lankan Sambar Deer occur in large herds

The vertebrate fauna of the region includes 24 species of mammals, 87 species of birds, nine species of reptiles and eight species of amphibians.[2] The Sri Lankan Elephant disappeared from the region in the 1940s at the latest.[4] At present, the largest and the most commonly seen mammal is the Sambar Deer. Some research findings estimate the population of Sambar Deer to be around 1500 to 2000, possibly more than the carrying capacity of the plains.[6] Other mammal species found in the park include Kelaart's Long-clawed Shrews, Toque Macaques, Purple-faced Langurs, Rusty-spotted Cat, Sri Lankan Leopards, Wild boars, Stripe-necked Mongooses, Sri Lankan Spotted Chevrotains, Indian Muntjacs, and Grizzled giant squirrels. Fishing Cats and European Otters visit the wetlands of the park to prey on aquatic animals. A subspecies of Red Slender Loris, the Horton Plains Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus nycticeboides formerly sometimes considered as Loris lydekkerianus nycticeboides) is found only in highlands of Sri Lanka and is considered one of the world's most endangered primates.In July 2010 a group of researchers from the Zoological Society of London was able to photograph the mammal for the first time.
Along with Ohiya, Pattipola and Ambewela, Horton Plains forms one of the Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Sri Lanka.[12] Together with the adjacent Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, Horton Plains contains 21 bird species which occur only on Sri Lanka. Four, Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Dull-blue Flycatcher, Sri Lanka White-eye, and Sri Lanka Wood-pigeon, occur only in Horton plains, while other endemic species include Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Orange-billed Babbler, Sri Lanka Bush-warbler, and Sri Lanka Whistling-thrush. Many birds migrate here in winter including swiftlets, and Alpine Swift. Crested Serpent-eagle, Mountain Hawk-eagle, Black-winged Kite, and Peregrine Falcon are among the birds of prey found in Horton Plains. Harriers are among the migratory raptors.[2] This is a key wildlife area. All six highland endemic birds are found here, including Dull-blue Flycatcher, Sri Lanka White-eye, Sri Lanka Wood-pigeon, and Sri Lanka Bush-warbler. Yellow-eared Bulbul and Black-throated Munia are widespread throughout the highlands.
Sri Lanka is considered a herpetological paradise in the world.Possibly about 15 amphibian species inhabit the park. Among them are Microhyla zeylanica, Ramanella palmata, Fejervarya greenii, Rana gracilis, Philautus alto, Philautus femoralis, Philautus frankenbergi, Philautus microtympanum, Philautus schmarda, and Polypedates eques. De Silva has observed six endemic reptiles from the plains. They are Calotes nigrilabris, Rhino Horn Lizard, Cophotis ceylanica, Lankascincus taprobanensis, Common rough-sided snake, and Rat snake. Two fish species found in the park, common carp and rainbow trout; both are introduced species.Horton Plains is also home to many endemic crustaceans including Caridina singhalensis and Perbrinckia species. The endemic freshwater shrimp Caridina singhalensis is found only in streams that have a temperature of less than 15 degrees C and is now restricted to only a stretch of 10 km of one stream.

 Threats and conservation management

Horton Plains was a part of a large system of plains and forest cover that included Agra-Bopats, Moon Plains and Elk Plains.Between 1831 and 1948, it became a Sambar deer hunting ground. Elephants and Wild Boar were also hunted to a lesser extent. During this period lower slopes were cleared initially for coffee and then for tea plantations. As a result, Horton Plains and Peak Wilderness became isolated from other forest and grassland areas. Potatoes were cultivated in the grasslands but planting ceased in 1977. After being declared a National Park, these areas were reinstated as grasslands. Tourism-related issues such as plant removal, littering, fires and noise pollution are major conservation issues.Gem mining, timber logging, the collection of plants for ornamental and medicinal purposes, encroachment, poaching and vehicle traffic are the other threats. The spread of invasive alien species such as Gorse (Ulex europaeus), brackens, and Pennisetum spp. threaten the native flora. The introduced rainbow trout may have affected endemic species of fish, amphibia and crustaceans.
Some Sambar deer have died due to eating polythene litter that blocked their food passages, and visitors are banned from bringing polythene into the park.Sambar have benefited from the introduced Pennisetum grass species.
A recent threat, first reported in 1978, is forest dieback. In some areas, especially in the peripheral region, this has been severe with nearly a 50% in vegetation. Water deficiency has been attributed as the main cause of dieback as droughts are becoming more frequent. Regrowth of forest is hindered by frost which is increasingly severe. The forest dieback has affected 22 species of plants with Calophyllum walkeri being the most affected.A study has suggested that low Calcium causes soil acidification and increased toxicity caused by metallic elements such as Aluminium may be causing the dieback. Leaching of nutrients and the resulting imbalance in soil micronutrients may also be contributing to the dieback.

Tourist attractions
view down a steep wooded valley
World's End is a major attraction

Horton Plains is a popular tourist destination, with World's End being the key attraction.In the six months ending in August 2009, Horton Plains National Park earned a revenue of Rs. 20.1 million (US$ 0.17 million).The park is accessed by the Nuwara Eliya-Ambewela-Pattipola and Haputale-Boralanda roads, and there are railway stations at Ohiya and Ambewela. World's End is a sheer precipice with a 870 m (2,854 ft) drop.It is situated at the southern boundary of the park. Another cliff known as the Lesser World's End of 270 m (886 ft) is located not far from World's End. Baker's Falls, a waterfall formed by Belihul Oya, a tributary of the Walawe River is named after Sir Samuel Baker, a hunter and explorer[19] who attempted to establish a European agricultural settlement at Nuwara Eliya. The falls are 20 metres (66 ft) high. Slab Rock Falls is another well known waterfall in the plains.

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