Hill Stations
Contrasting
other regions of Sri Lanka, the Hill Country or the Central highlands offer
pleasant cool climate. The hilly slopes are carpeted by tea plantations
which creates a distinct aroma on mixing with fresh air. The Central
Highlands have rich list of tourist destinations. The Lankan citizens also
love to visit hill country for it gives them respite from hot humid tropical
climate. So visit the hill country in Sri Lanka and enjoy gala time here.
Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya is the most famous hill resort in Sri Lanka, nestled at the
altitude of 2000 metres. Land of the famous Ceylon tea, the rolling
mountains of Nuwara Eliya are carpeted by green tea plantations, punctuated
with dancing streams and waterfalls. This scenic town is overlooked by
Pidurutalagala, the highest mountain in Sri Lanka. It was once favorite hill
station of the British in Sri Lanka.
Waterfalls
Waterfalls of Sri Lanka are matchless jewels of nature. The country
has more than hundred major picturesque waterfalls all capable of arousing
the aesthetic sensibility of the visitors. In addition to these there are so
many minor ones. These waterfalls, which are the jewels of the nature,
rejuvenate the onlookers. Sri Lanka has largest number of waterfalls in the
world in comparison to its size. The falls are fed by two half-yearly
monsoons.
Horton Plains
Horton Plains is the highest plateau in Sri Lanka. The second and third
highest mountains in Sri Lanka namely Kirigalpotta & Thotupola are
within the boundaries of the park. With annual rain of about 5000mm Horton
Plains is the most important catchments area of the country. Three major
rivers of the country Kelani, Walawe & Mahaweli have their origin in
Horton Plains. Period between January to March is slightly dry. High
altitude makes the area comparatively cold. The area is rich in flora and
fauna. Leopard, Sambhur and wild boar are the most common large mammals in
Horton Plains.
Sri Pada
Sri Pada is distinct because it is held sacred by the followers of four
religions: Buddhism, Hindus, Christians and Muslims. The peak lifts sharply
skywards from the verdant forests of south-western Sri Lanka. Sripada is
also called as Samanalakande or the 'butterfly mountain' because of so many
butterflies. The mountain is more impressive from the seaside. Certain parts
of the track leading up the mountain are very steep. Watching the sunrise
here is a memorable sight.
