Mini World’s ends of Sri Lanka

For some reason, ancient Sri Lankans seemed to believe that the world’s end rested within the Horton Plains National Park. No idea why. A glance is enough to verify that the earth isn’t going to drop off at the precipice despite the 1,200-metre drop. On top of that, there are several mini world’s ends here in Sri Lanka as well. Maybe our ancestors had a thing for the dramatics when naming cliff edges. Perhaps they just felt that ‘copy-paste’ was good enough. Whatever the case, the result is that, in addition to THE World’s End in Horton Plains, there are several smaller versions scattered around the hill country. Here are some of the gorgeous mini world’s ends that are worthy of visits in their rights. And trust me, when you are at the edge of the precipice, nothing about the drop seems ‘mini’.

Mini World's End - Horton Plains

It’s unfair that one already iconic destination should already hold two world’s ends, but there you go. Horton Plains National Park is where the famous World’s End precipice is. But, just a kilometre or so away, you find another, smaller precipice. The 300-metre drop gives access to stunning views over the landscape.

However, like most things within Horton Plains, this is another attraction that relies much on the weather. One of the prettiest mini world’s ends it might be, but visiting the sight on a misty day is near impossible. For instance, the low visibility makes the route dangerous. For another, the mist can obscure the view. On a clear day, on the other hand, you do get to enjoy the stunning sight of valleys and rolling hills. If the weather is especially kind, you can even catch distant glimpses of the Indian Ocean!

Mini World's End - Pitawala Pathana

Nestled within the Kunckles Mountain Range, Pitawala Pathana is a beautiful grassy plain. It stretches across 10 hectares of land and is home to several endemic fauna. The high altitude, and the steady winds, mean that scrubs and bushes thrive more. Nevertheless, it is an incredible location to enjoy a hike.

The remoteness and biodiversity are enough to attract visitors. But, Pitawala Pathana is also famously known as another one of the mini world’s ends in Sri Lanka. The hike to the viewpoint – or viewpoints, rather – is not vigorous. You can enjoy a stroll a few metres away from the ticket counter to reach the first drop. Once you proceed, you arrive at the second precipice. It gives a different vantage point to observe the lush vegetation that surrounds the area and the tall mountains in the distance.

Mini World's End - Moon Plains

Moon Plains is an attraction that lies close to Nuwara Eliya. Named for the circular plains resembling the moon’s craters when viewed from above, it’s a stunning area with 360-degree views. One of the best things about its location is that it sits amidst some of the tallest mountain ranges that the Central Hills offer. As a result, cloud forests and the wildlife that thrive within are within close viewing proximity.

Another attraction within Moon Plains is the Mini World’s End viewpoint. Numbered among the most scenic mini world’s ends in Sri Lanka, the viewpoint looks out at a landscape similar to Horton Plains. However, the hiking time is considerably shorter.

Mini World' End - Deanston

Deanston is one of the many destinations in the Knuckles Mountain range that offer scenic hiking trails. It also has a trail that leads to a well-known mini world’s end.

The hike offers more than the prospect of incredible views. The Knuckles Range is rich with biodiversity, and it’s evident when you are hiking through the mountains. For instance, on the hike to this famous viewpoint, you might spot sambar deer, leopards and a variety of birds.

Want to explore the different hiking trails in Sri Lanka?

Join our Sri Lanka Hill Country & Tea Trail to explore the wonders of the hill country, or take the Epic Sri Lanka Train Journey to combine hiking with a scenic train ride.