Kirigalpoththa Mountain Trail

Overview

Kirigalpoththa mountain trail takes you to Sri Lanka’s second-highest peak, rising to 2,388 meters. This route offers one of the island’s most challenging and rewarding hikes. The path winds through mist-covered grasslands and cloud forests inside Horton Plains National Park, where rare wildlife can be seen in their natural surroundings. As you approach the summit, expansive views open up across the central highlands, and the clouds feel almost within reach. Reaching the top is a true accomplishment, combining raw natural beauty, close encounters with wildlife, and the satisfaction of standing on one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic mountains.

Basic Details

• Ages: 4-70
• Duration: 6-8 Hours
• Start Time: Flexible
• Live Guide: English
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Highlights

• Embark on a scenic one-hour drive from Nuwara Eliya through misty highlands to Horton Plains National Park
• Trek through pristine montane forests along a well-maintained 6 km trail draped in emerald moss and lichen
• Discover remarkable biodiversity, including rare orchids, medicinal herbs, and endemic birds like the Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush
• Stand atop Thotupolakanda’s summit for panoramic views of mist-draped valleys and emerald tea plantations
• Savor a traditional Sri Lankan lunch complemented by Ceylon tea grown in the visible plantations below

Full Description

Your adventure begins with a scenic one-hour drive from Nuwara Eliya to Horton Plains National Park, or you can meet us directly at Pattipola or Ohiya railway stations if you’re coming by train. As we enter the park, the temperature drops and the landscape transforms into a magical mix of rolling grasslands and misty forests.

The 7 km trail to Kirigalpoththa takes you through the heart of Horton Plains, one of Sri Lanka’s most precious natural treasures. Unlike the crowded World’s End path, this trail offers peaceful solitude and a true wilderness experience. The path starts gently through open grasslands where you might spot herds of sambar deer grazing in the morning light.

As we climb higher, the landscape changes to enchanting cloud forest, with twisted trees draped in moss and colorful lichens. Keep your steps light and your voice low in this park, which is home to amazing wildlife, including wild boar, fishing cats, and the tiny mouse deer (chevrotain). Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the chance to spot rare species like the Sri Lanka whistling thrush and yellow-eared bulbul.

The final climb becomes steeper but incredibly rewarding. Each step brings you closer to the summit, where an unforgettable experience awaits. Standing on top of Kirigalpoththa, you’ll feel on top of the world as clouds drift past at eye level and valleys spread out below. On clear days, you can see all the way to Adam’s Peak and across the central highlands, a view that few travelers ever experience.

At the summit, we’ll take time to rest and celebrate your achievement. Enjoy a delicious,  packed Sri Lankan lunch while soaking in the spectacular panorama that surrounds you. This is the perfect moment to reflect, take photos, and simply appreciate the natural beauty of Sri Lanka from this unique vantage point.

The descent follows the same path but offers new perspectives as you notice different plants, animals, and views on the way down. By evening, we’ll return to the park entrance with memories and photos that will last a lifetime.

Your package includes the Horton Plains National Park entrance fee, and our experienced guide will provide detailed information about the route, wildlife, and safety tips throughout the journey.

Why Book This Kirigalpoththa Mountain Trail

Our Kirigalpoththa Mountain Trail offers an adventure that goes far beyond the typical tourist experience in Sri Lanka. While most visitors crowd around World’s End, you’ll be exploring one of the island’s greatest natural challenges in peaceful solitude.

The moderate difficulty level makes this hike accessible to anyone with reasonable fitness while still providing the satisfaction of conquering Sri Lanka’s second-highest peak. Children as young as 8 and adults up to 70 have successfully completed this trail with our guidance.

Unlike standard tours, we offer flexible starting times to match your schedule and the option to begin from railway stations, making it easier to fit this adventure into your Sri Lanka journey.

Every step of this hike reveals new wonders, from close encounters with deer and monkeys to the changing landscapes of grasslands and cloud forests. The summit experience, where you stand above the clouds with panoramic views in all directions, creates a moment of pure magic that you’ll remember forever.

Book your Kirigalpoththa Mountain Trail today and add an extraordinary achievement to your travel story standing on the roof of Sri Lanka!