Moon Plains

Moon Plains, locally referred to as Sandatenna, is a vast plateau located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, near the town of Nuwara Eliya. The area was formally opened to the public in 2014, following decades of use as a municipal landfill and restricted agricultural land. Positioned at an average elevation of approximately 1,800 meters above sea level, the plains offer a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges, including Pidurutalagala, the highest peak in the country. The region is ecologically significant, serving as a sanctuary for rare wildlife such as the Sri Lankan leopard, sambar deer, and various endemic bird species. Visitors typically traverse the rolling green hills via organized jeep safaris, enjoying the crisp air and often misty conditions characteristic of the highland climate. Moon Plains stands as a prime example of successful environmental restoration, showcasing the transition from a degraded site to a protected natural asset. Agriculturally, the surrounding slopes are vital for the production of potatoes and temperate vegetables, which thrive in the region's unique climatic conditions.

Nearby cities

Kandy

Kandy, nestled in the lush hills of central Sri Lanka, is famous for the Temple of the Tooth and its Buddhist traditions.

Matale

Matale is an agricultural town nestled in a valley in the center of the island, surrounded by spice gardens.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, often called 'Little England', is a highland city with a cool climate, known for tea production and colonial architecture.

Hatton

Hatton is the heart of Sri Lanka's tea industry and a major gateway for those climbing the sacred Adam's Peak.

Haputale

Haputale is spectacularly perched on a mountain ridge, offering breathtaking views of tea plantations and cloud forests.

Knuckles Range

A UNESCO World Heritage site with misty peaks resembling a clenched fist, perfect for trekking.

Sembuwatta Lake

A paradisiacal man-made lake nestled within tea plantations, famous for its deep blue waters and misty mountain backdrop.

Bandarawela

Bandarawela is a quiet highland resort town known for its mild climate, colonial architecture, and tea production.

Maskeliya

A charming town situated by the Maussakelle Reservoir, surrounded by endless tea estates and the gateway to Adam's Peak.

More places

Kirigalpotta

The second highest mountain in Sri Lanka and the highest one accessible to the general public.

Hakgala

A mountain near Nuwara Eliya famous for the botanical gardens located on its slopes.

Horton Plains

A high-altitude plateau in central Sri Lanka, characterized by montane forest and grassland.

Thotupola Kanda

The third highest mountain in Sri Lanka, associated with the Ramayana legend of King Ravana.

Mahaweli Valley

The broad river valley of the Mahaweli, Sri Lanka's longest river, known for its agricultural importance.

Knuckles Mountain Range

A massive mountain range in central Sri Lanka whose folds resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist.

Lakegala

An impressive, triangular rock peak in the Knuckles mountain range, often associated with ancient legends.

Bogawantalawa Valley

A picturesque highland valley often called the 'Golden Valley of Tea' for its exceptional tea production.