Horton Plains National Park
HighScore 8/10

Horton Plains National Park

Nuwara Eliya, Central Province

Overview

Horton Plains is Sri Lanka's highest plateau at 2,134m elevation, featuring rolling montane grassland (patana) that provides expansive unobstructed horizons. The high altitude provides a significantly thinner atmospheric column, dramatically reducing light scattering and aerosol haze. Strict national park status means zero permanent human settlements or street lighting within the plateau.

Elevation: 2134m
6.8000°N, 80.8000°E

Night Sky Conditions

Dark Sky StatusNot Verified
Light PollutionVery Low — No permanent settlements, park gates locked after dark
Sky QualitySQM Estimated Bortle Class 2 (Demo data)
Avg Cloud CoverFrequent mist; clear windows primarily January-March%

Astro Suitability Indicators

Light Pollution40
Sky Quality50
Photography Potential50
Accessibility50
Elevation Advantage90
Overall Astro Score
8.0/10

Scores are based on sample assessment data. Not verified scientific measurements.


Astrophotography

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Nearby Accommodation

Best Time to Visit

Recommended Months

January-March

Best Viewing Time
7:00 PM - 5:00 AM

Responsible Tourism

When visiting Horton Plains National Park, please help protect the dark sky environment:

  • Use red flashlights only
  • Avoid campfires near observation areas
  • Pack out all trash