Friday, September 27, 2013

Horton Plains National Park

                         Horton Plains National Park

                                           Srilankamountainforest.jpg
  • 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 areendemic to the region. This region was designated anational park in 1988. It is also a popular tourist destination and is situated 32 kilometres (20 mi) fromNuwara Eliya and 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) from Ohiya.
  • The Horton Plains are the headwaters of three major Sri Lankan rivers, the MahaweliKelani, and Walawe. InSinhala 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

                               Map showing the location of Horton Plains National Park