Hike to World's End in Horton Plains NP

World's End in Horton Plains National Park is perhaps *the* tourist destination in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, featuring a 4,000' drop and breathtaking views of tea plantations and the Indian Ocean some 50 miles way.

The park itself sits on the southern plateau of the central highlands with an average elevation of between 6,900' and 7,500', and features numerous plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.

The hike to the World's End viewpoint is only 2.5 miles, but most do it in a loop that includes Baker Falls for a total round trip of ~6 miles. 

Most stop first at Small World's End and then continue down around the ridgeline to World's End. But if you look closely (and if you have a good guide), there's a trail that follows the top of the ridgeline almost all the way to World's End, giving you rare solitude and unparalleled views of the valley below.

To get to Horton Plains it is essential you book a guide to handle transportation and permitting, which can be booked through the National Park Office, or from a hotel, or a restaurant, or someone you meet on the street. Expect to pay around 800 Sri Lankan Rupees (about $5.50 USD), with a little more for gas, tips, and park entrance fees. Trust your guide. The hike begins at a trailhead at the main park car park. 

Be sure to arrive before 10am (your guide will make sure of this), especially in monsoon months between April and September, otherwise your view will be completely obscured by clouds. The World's End hike is a great one to do in conjunction with a climb of Sri Lanka's 2nd highest peak, Kirigalpotta, which can be done as a day hike and leaves from the same car park.