Nuwara Eliya is one of the famous destinations in Sri Lanka. All of us have at least visited Nuwara Eliya once in our life. But have you ever heard of this beautiful plain called Moon plains? I bet many of us have not visited this place as this was opened recently for the public. Moon Plains is also known as Sandatanne and Sandagalatenna.

Photo Credit: Lanka Travelbug

This beautiful area of land is made more picturesque by its flat and slightly sloppy landmass with the blue hills in the background. Moon Plains is a mini Worlds End and at its edge gives a surprisingly spectacular 360-degree view of the surrounding towering mountain range. The standout feature of the site is the panoramic view of surrounding mountains which offers many experiences to you. You can literally have an unobstructed view for miles in every direction and on a clear day, you could see 9 different mountains in Sri Lanka. The view from the Mini World's Peak at dawn is particularly fabulous as the sun rises through the mist around the valleys. The perfect time to visit this site is either in the morning or evening time.

The plain is located 163 km away from the capital city Colombo and only 2.5km distance from Nuwara Eliya town. You can get there by going past the lake, through Mahagastota, and then north towards the Agriculture Department and the Government Potato Seed Farm at Sita Eliya. This area is now classified as an Agricultural and Environmental Tourism Zone by the Municipal of Nuwara Eliya. The estimated terrain elevation above sea level is 1950 meters.

The plain is open from 7 am to 5 pm all seven days and the ticket prices are surprisingly reasonable and include a safari jeep and a guide. In order to climb moon plains, it is advised to hire a safari jeep from the office which is located at the entrance. You could see wild deer, elk, wild buffalo grazing on the green plains, and many endemic bird varieties in your journey in the moon plains.

Photo Credit: Lanka Travelbug

Next time you visit Nuwara Eliya try not to miss this spectacular plain. You will not be able to take your eyes off once you reach the top. When you are there, please leave only your footprints behind! Let's protect the nature of this beautiful island.