Kirigalpoththa
Mountain Sri Lanka's second-highest peak with cloud-shrouded forests
Kirigalpoththa, high in Horton Plains, ranks among Sri Lanka’s tallest peaks; hikers tackle steep trails for cloud-forest scenery, endemic plants and expansive highland views.
Kirigalpoththa is a mountain in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands standing at about 2,388 metres, and is the island’s second-highest peak. It lies within Horton Plains National Park and forms part of the Central Highlands World Heritage area.
The summit rises from an upland plateau of montane grassland and cloud forest and is reached by park trails that cross exposed terrain and boardwalks. Views from the top are frequently affected by mist and cloud, so early starts are commonly advised for better visibility.
The mountain and surrounding plateau are included in the protected landscape of Horton Plains National Park, which conserves montane ecosystems and endemic flora and fauna. Trails that serve the summit also pass well-known park features such as World’s End and Baker’s Falls.
Kirigalpoththa sits in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, accessed from nearby towns such as Ohiya and Nuwara Eliya via the park entrance roads.
- Elevation: Elevation is about 2,388 metres, making it Sri Lanka's second-highest peak.
- Access and timing: Access is via walking tracks from Horton Plains National Park and early morning starts are recommended for clearer views and to avoid cloud and mist.
What to See #
- Summit: The summit of Kirigalpoththa, the high point reached via trails in Horton Plains National Park.
- Horton Plains trails: Trails and features of Horton Plains National Park, including viewpoints such as World's End and Baker's Falls from which the mountain is accessed.
How to Get to Kirigalpoththa #
Kirigalpoththa is usually approached from Nuwara Eliya or Horton Plains. From Nuwara Eliya, drive approximately 30-50 km to trailheads; public buses run to Nuwara Eliya with local taxis or hired drivers taking visitors onward. A local guide is recommended for route conditions and weather updates.
Tips for Visiting Kirigalpoththa #
- Start the trail early (before 7am) to catch cooler air and cloud inversion effects near the summit.
- Hire a local guide from Nuwara Eliya if unfamiliar with the terrain-routes can be steep and slippery after rain.
- Observe the endemic flora: look for stunted montane cloud forest and Rhododendron arboreum flowers in bloom.
Best Time to Visit Kirigalpoththa #
Best visited in the drier months for safer hiking and clearer summit views; mornings often offer the clearest skies.
Weather & Climate near Kirigalpoththa #
Kirigalpoththa's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 9°C to 21°C. Heavy rainfall (2061 mm/year), wettest in October.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (164 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (176 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (184 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. Heavy rain (234 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (198 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (200 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (235 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 11°C. Heavy rain (229 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (179 mm) and mostly overcast skies.