Kirigalpoththa Peak exploration via Horton Plains

Kirigalpoththa Peak

Kirigalpoththa is the 2nd highest Mountain of Sri Lanka after Pidurutalagala. With a peak elevation of 2,388 meters above sea level. Kirigalpoththa Peak is the highest point in the Horton Plains National Park and also the highest peak accessible to the public. Trekking, hiking, and mountaineering challenges will take around 5 1/2 hours to complete on this 7 K.M trail (one way). Daring adventurers only should attempt Kirigalpoththa peak, as the terrain and weather conditions can be treacherous. One person out of every eight has never reached the summit. A single and slightly over grown path snake through grassy plains, cloud forest, bog & finally steep rock surfaces. You may come across Sri Lankan Lepoard and Sambar deer as bigger wild animals occationally. If you are lucky, you may even encounter a few endemic bird species as well.

Horton Plains National Park

The southern plateau of the central highlands of Sri Lanka is where Horton Plains is found. Which is a protected area where montane grassland and cloud forest prevail. This plateau at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 meters (6,900–7,500 ft.) is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region. In 1988, this region was designated as a national park. Nature lovers, hikers, and bird watchers also find it a popular destination. It is situated 8 kilometers (5.0 mi) from Ohiya, 6 kilometers (3.7 mi) from the world famous Ohiya Gap/Dondra Watch.  Horton Plains is 32 kilometers (20 mi) from Nuwara Eliya.

The Kirigalpoththa peak (2,388 meters (7,838 ft.)) and Thotupola Kanda (2,357 meters (7,733 ft.)), the second and the third highest of Sri Lanka, are situated to the west and north respectively. The elevation of the park ranges from 2,100 to 2,300 meters (6,900–7,500 ft.). 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.

Importance

The three major Sri Lankan rivers, Mahaweli, Kelani, and Walawe, have their headwaters in the Horton Plains. In Sinhala the plains are known as Maha Eliya Plains. Stone tools dating back to Balangoda culture have been discovered here. The montane forest and grasslands make up the vegetation in the plains, and these areas are home to many endemic woody plants. Large herds of Sri Lankan Sāmbhar 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. Some natural phenomena cause forest dieback, making it one of the major threats to the park.

Key Factors

• Up to date first aid, qualified medical officer, adequate refreshments, pack lunch, back up vehicle for emergency transport, tour guide and helper will be provided for the hike.

IMPORTANT FACTORS

• Clients should carry their personal effects for Warm/Windy/Rainy conditions.
• Recommendations include the use of insect repellent, sunburn lotion, etc.
• Individuals with special dietary requirements need to notify in advance.
• Clients must have good pair of Shoes/boots, leech socks, long sleeve t-shirts and pants.
• The experienced and well-trained guide would take every precaution to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests on tour as your safety is our prime concern. However, Paradise Island Safari or its employees do not accept any liability for death, injury or illness of guest while on tour caused by any animal, reptile, insect, and events of nature or any type of accident.