August, 2014 | The Adventure Travel Site

Minneriya National Park- nature lover’s paradise

Minneriya National Park which is located between the cities of Habarana and Pollonnuruwa was declared as a National Park in 1997. The park is an ideal place to watch elephant gatherings during the dry season. Home to different habitats and arrays of flora and fauna the National Park of Manneriya is a dream come true for nature lovers and photographers. Travellers planning holidays in Sri Lanka can use the services offered by the well renowned tour provider,Walkers Tours Sri Lanka and enjoy a comfortable tour through the North central province.

The central attraction of the park is the Minneriya Tank built by King Mahasena. During June to September this is an unbelievable place to observe the elephants and the flocks of birds such as the painted storks, pelicans, open bills and many other migratory and local birds. Travellers could also spot the Sambar deer, sloth bears, and the leopards when visiting the park. A feeding ground for the Sri Lankan elephants the reservoir sustains a large herd of elephants at a given time. The landscape of the park is simply magnificent; it consists of wetlands, grasslands and tropical evergreen forests as well as small shrubs areas. Apart from these there are a large collection of reptiles in the park such as the endemic and endangered red-lipped lizard and the skinks.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Jungle Kayaking in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, a city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous tourist destinations. Anuradhapura served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th Century BC until the capital was moved to Polonnaruwa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura has many ancient ruins which intrigued even modern archeologists and engineers. A recommendable Anuradhapura hotel to stay in is the Ulagalla Resort; which offers tranquil accommodation and a host of luxury amenities.

While visiting the ruins of Anuradhapura is the city’s primary attraction, the city is also famous for several recreational activities; such as kayaking. Anuradhapura has many lakes and rivers, most of which were constructed by the ancient kings for irrigation and plantation. Many of these lakes and rivers flow through jungles, making kayaking all the more exciting and intriguing.

Kayaking, as it is, is an extremely exciting activity. Kayaking can done either alone or with a crowd, based on the type of kayak available. Tandems; boats which two or more persons can travel in, are great if you want to go on an adventure with your loved ones of friends. When the lush and mysterious jungles of Anuradhapura are added into the equation, the whole experience becomes much of magical. These jungles, which have seen the history of the city, are beautiful and offer a sense of tranquility and calmness. Kayaking through them is sure to be an outdoor activity which will leave you with an unforgettable experience. There are many hotels and resorts in Anuradhapura which offer Kayaking equipment and other services. These hotels are located in close proximity to some of the lakes which are most suitable for kayaking, so you should be able to get going without much hassle.

The jungle kayaking experience in Anuradhapura is sure to be both exciting and unforgettable, so don’t forget to try it out when you visit Anuradhapura.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Lotus Hill

There are many hills along the Pearl River Delta in Guangzhou, of which the most famous is the Lotus Hill. This hill is famous scenic area in Guangzhou and known for its unique rock formations, annual festivals and the breathtaking views it offers. For a tranquil and comfortable stay in a short of long stay service apartment in Guangzhou, make a reservation at the luxury Ascott IFC Guangzhou.

The Lotus Hill is located in Panya city, just 20km away from the centre of Guangzhou, and actually consists of 48 red sandstone hills. These 48 hills are of varying height, the tallest being 108m. The hills are beautiful and are a great choice for an excursion with family and friends. Lotus Hill got its name from an old Chinese folk legend, where the Mother Buddha dropped down a lotus flower to control an unruly dragon. Legend has it that the hill arose on the spot where the lotus flower fell, and thus the people named the hill after the flower.

The Lotus Hill has many fascinating things about it. One of its most famous features is its unique rock formations. The Eagle Cliff, the Swallow Rock and the Lion Stone are some of the famous rock formations of Lotus Hill. Each of these formations offers different types of views and scenery. For example, the view from the Eagle Cliff is of networks of roads, and beyond that are lush paddy fields and the winding Pearl River. Similarly the view from Swallow Rock gives you a view of four distinct cliffs which are covered with green vines, given them the effect of them looking like a green screen. The Hill is also the site of the annual Lotus Festival and the Peach Blossom Festival.

The Lotus Hill is a great place to visit for a small adventure. The best time to visit the hill is during the festivals, but regardless of the festivals, the Lotus Hill is still an exciting attraction.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
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Night Snorkeling in Maldives

Maldives is a archipelagic state which is located in South Asia. Known for its amazing natural beauty, pristine white sandy beaches and thriving tourism industry, Maldives is a great destination for those who wish to engage in water and beach activities. One such amazing and magical activity is snorkeling at night. The Velassaru Maldives is a luxury resort which is known for its tranquil accommodation, and offers many exciting things to do in Maldives island.

The Maldives is a world renowned diving and snorkeling destination. This is due to the reason that the waters of Maldives are home to amazing underwater sights and attractions. The Maldives has many splendid coral reefs which are abundant with marine life. These colorful coral in all shapes and sizes, many exotic species of marine life, as well as astounding underwater caves make the diving and snorkeling sites of Maldives magical even during the day. But at night time the experience become even more extraordinary…

The clear tropical waters, glistening with the moonlight, make the mere sight of the waters mesmerizingly beautiful. Snorkeling at night means you must take a flash light with you, so that you can discover the nighttime waters. You will be able to see marvelous coral reefs glistening under the moonlight. You will get to see the many species of fish, and even whales, sleeping in the calm and quiet nighttime waters. There are other species that are only active in the night, so night snorkeling allows you to see these species too .One of the most amazing highlights of night snorkeling is the glimmering and shining biolumiscent plankton and micro life. Glistening under the moonlight, these creatures create an effect of floating glitter underwater, which is a sight that you have to experience.

Night snorkeling in itself is exciting and magical, but night snorkeling in the waters of the Maldives is far more magical. So go ahead and explore the nighttime waters of Maldives.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Water boarding

Water boarding is an ideal sport for those who seek adventure in sports, with lots of adrenaline and a thrill that is unique to this sport. This sport is mainly about the challenge of control and balance, and the playful feeling and the adrenaline rush, you might be about to drown adds to the excitement and attraction. Water boarding is mainly popular among surfers on the Middle Eastern beaches, however water boarding has become a popular sport among many surfers in recent times, with many people trying out this sport. Hong Kong also has many beaches that are ideal for water boarding. Anyone who is interested in water boarding in Hong Kong can stay over at the Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong, which is a Four Star hotel that is a perfect environment for anyone who wants to do business or just to unwind and relax. The hotel is a comfortable, luxury hotel that is, also reasonably priced for the guests to enjoy and is very much in close proximity to the beaches that are ideal for Water boarding.

There is a certain team spirit that this sport brings about for anyone. There is a certain bond among the surfers that naturally springs from the tightly knit group that is Water boarding. It is a good sport to meet new people and some surfers have even developed close friendships among the community. This sport has a distinctive culture with its own ideals.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Water sports in Koh Samui, an expedition through the ocean for the adventurer in you

Patched artistically with tall green coconut trees and bordered by a coastline of white sandy beaches, Koh Samui is surrounded on all sides by an azure ocean that changes color from dawn to dusk just like the colourful flora and fauna hiding beneath them. The skies are often reflected in these near magical waters, giving the entire scenery an almost heavenly aura. However, this is not the only reason why one should make Koh Samui a must-see on their list as the abundant variety of water sports available make it well worth a stay too. When on this island, a good choice of accommodation among the many Koh Phangan resorts would be the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa. Located amidst lush greenery, this resort offers an interesting range of comfortable villas and recreational activities to choose from, along with easy access to a number of water sporting sites.

First on the list is snorkeling and diving, where one gets to swim with marine life and explore the famous crystal coves and coral bays surrounding the island. Popular spots for these activities would be Koh Tao and the Ang Thong Marine Park. If one wants to be Robinson Crusoe for a day, they can certainly do so by touring along the many islands of the Samui archipelago by a chartered yacht or on one of the many exciting sailing cruises and with waters rich and teeming with fish like in Koh Samui, it is almost an obligation for visitors to go on at least one game fishing trip.

Individuals who prefer a more hands-on form of exploration can try kayaking across and through the exotic forms of overhanging cliffs and caves, mostly at Angthong National Park and Coral Island. Jet skiing, stand-up paddling, kite boarding, and wind surfing too are available for the holidaying adrenaline aficionado. Finally, amusement parks like Coco Splash Water Park in Lamai and Aquapark in Chaweng offer an appealing choice of activities, rides, and slides for both children and adults.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Discover the Adventure Capital of Southern Hemisphere

While Queenstown in New Zealand may be famous for its enchanting landscapes and laidback atmosphere, do not let this seemingly placid setting fool you; for it is here that you will also find a thrilling array of adventure activities that have led it becoming the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere. If you are looking for an ideal luxury hotel in New Zealand in the region from which to set off on your excursions, consider Anantara Vacation Club at Oaks Shores located by Lake Wakatipu. It is not only within easy reach of the Queenstown town centre, but areas such as The Remarkables, Arrowtown and Coronet Peak too.

The options for activities are seemingly endless in Queenstown; Lake Wakatipu is a great spot for a speedboat tour, kayaking excursions and fishing, while nature lovers can also take part in horse riding, biking and hiking, exploring magical landscapes, forests and mountains that have even been used as backdrops for films such as Lord of the Rings. For more adrenaline pumping action you can also feel the pure rush of experiencing the force of gravity firsthand as you plummet at exhilarating speeds when bungy jumping. Take to the skies on a paragliding excursion as you enjoy bird’s eye views of Mother Nature decked in all her finery, though for unforgettable aerial vistas, you can always try skydiving! Not to be forgotten are the many ski outings on offer in and around Queenstown with The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Cardrona providing plenty of opportunities for skiing and snowboarding between June and October.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Quad Bike Adventures

Skimming over the sands of Wahiba Desert on a powerful quad bike is just the ticket for all adrenaline junkies. Just one of the things to do in Oman quad biking is part of the action adventures to be enjoyed here. Those seeking true Bedouin comforts and adventure right on the dunes should check out the Desert Nights Camp for an authentic taste of desert comforts.

Located within the golden dunes of Wahiba this lavish permanent campsite will fill your senses with the romance and mystery of the desert. Fragrances of frank incense and myrrh waft across the Bedouin settings as you relax in the well-appointed and elegant tent accommodation. Five star luxuries are available in the double tented suites, family tented suites and standard rooms with en-suite bathroom. The resort can accommodate up to 64 guests and offers the best of dining together with a variety of desert excursions and adventure sports.

No desert adventure is complete until you experience the thrill of quad biking across the Wahiba sands. Gorgeous fiery skies and the never ending desert add to this ethereal adventure. The powerful bikes will definitely satisfy your craving for action as you rev up a steep dune.

The Wahiba offers many activities such as camel safaris, sand boarding, trekking on dunes and dune bashing. After an exhilarating day of quad biking you can visit the marvellous and colourful souks of Oman for great shopping opportunity, explore authentic Bedouin homes and soak in some culture with a visit to the Old Fort in Mantrib.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Rock climbing in Phuket: Explore the Limestone Trail

Thailand’s island retreat of Phuket is renowned for its pristine beaches and majestic rock formations. With most parts of the island being covered by mountainous terrains spanning from the island’s north to its south, it is not surprising that the name ‘Phuket’ derives from Thai word for mountain. The island’s towering mountain range offers breathtaking views of Phuket’s coastline and is popular among rock climbing enthusiasts who can also enjoy Phuket Luxury Accommodation among other lodging options.

Phuket’s mountains and cliffs have much to offer both amateur and experienced rock climbers. The best example of the diversity that Phuket offers rock climbers is found at Tonsai in Railay Beach, where its high limestone cliffs is a world renown rock climbing destination with a host of trails that cater to beginners and experienced climbers. To the north of Phuket lies Phang Nga Bay which hosts impressive limestone mountains that offer climbers a more peaceful and yet equally memorable rock climbing experience. Here, both the mainland and the beach of Koh Yao Noi offer several routes that cater to the adventurous rock climber. The Phang Nga Bay, located near Point Yamu by COMO Phuket is frequented by tourists who visit the beach to marvel at the forty limestone islands that rise 300-400 meters above the sea. Indeed the coastal belt ranging from Phuket’s Phra Nang Cave Beach to Railay East beach remain popular among rock climbers who find their efforts rewarded by the commanding views of Phukhet’s shores.

One of Phuket’s most beautiful beaches is found in the Hat Tham Phra Nang area which is encircled by a high limestone cliff that contains the legendary Tham Phra Nang Nok (Outer Princess Cave) that is believe to be home to the mythical Sea princess. Rock climbing is necessary to visit this site which also contains a hidden ‘ Holy Princess Pool’ found on the side of the mountain while also offering panoramic views of the surrounding beaches and rocky islands from the mountain’s summit.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Kaudulla National Park

The wildlife of Sri Lanka is one among the mosaic of attractions adorning this rich, culturally infested island. When it comes to wildlife, many are used to names such as Yala and Wilpattu; sanctuaries that have long been the islands most dominant national parks. Of late however, wildlife enthusiasts has been visiting a rather new name in this arena; the Kaudulla National Park.

The Kaudulla national Park is an evergreen forest that is spread across 6600 hectares of land. Located in close proximity to the ancient Polonnaruwa Kingdom, the park is etched with much history. For those interested in exploring Kaudulla it is best to choose a Sri Lanka hotel in cities like Polonnaruwa or even the culture triangle because in Sri Lanka excursions are the best way to explore all the wonders of the island. Since Sri Lanka is a small island, all the many attractions of this nation are nestled in close proximity to one another. Another advantage of Kaudulla’s location is its connection to the famous elephant corridor; this way the park is blessed with plenty of elephants and plenty of opportunity for up close interactions with these elephants. The best time to plan a trip to Kaudulla is between September and October when large herds of elephants visit the Park.

In addition to elephants, Kaudulla houses Sambar Deer’s, Chevrotains, Wild boars and even sloth bears and leopards. Although Kaudulla has a rich wild life it has a far richer collection of birds that leaves the bird lover always in awe. The national Park with its plethora of water bodies boasts a large number of water birds including the spot billed pelicans, Asian Spoonbill, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Black-headed Ibis and Painted Stork. A total of 160 species of birds reside at Kaudulla. Indulge in a catamaran ride down the beautiful expanses of the Kaudulla Tank and enjoy the many fascinating birds that call this park their home.