Exploring the city of Kandy

Kandy, the hill city of Sri Lanka, is known for its religious significance due to the presence of Temple of Tooth. However, there is much more to this city, if you dare to venture off the beaten path.

Udawaththa Kele | Image Credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nyanatusita">Nyanatusita</a>, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Udawattakele_Forest_scene_4.jpg">Udawattakele Forest scene 4</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>
Udawaththa Kele | Image Credit: Nyanatusita, Udawattakele Forest scene 4, CC BY-SA 3.0

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Declared a nature sanctuary in 1938, Udawatta Kele – meaning Udawatta Forest – is not a highly visited destination among the tourists. However, it presents a mystique aura and has multiple treks and trails where one can stroll through and enjoy the lushness that surrounds them.

Trekking

There are many trekking trails around Kandy both historic and scenic. They are definitely worthwhile exploring and travellers should base themselves in a place like Mahaweli Reach Hotel and spare a day or two to enjoy pristine areas not too far from the city.

City’s colonial past

A neo-gothic 19th century Anglican Church, a Victorian fountain, the 19th century Garrison Cemetery near the old palace, the WWI and WWII Commonwealth War Cemetery on Deveni Rajasinge Mw by the Mahaweli River are the remains from the city’s colonial past.

Peradeniya Botanic Garden

In Kandy, things to do are plenty. Devoting a whole morning to visiting the Peradeniya Botanic Garden, one of best such facilities in the region, will not be wasted as there is much to see besides enjoying its beautiful surroundings. Stroll around the picturesque 200-year-old Kandy Lake in the evening and walk along shaded paths in Udawatte Kele, the historic forest reserve overlooking the Temple of the Tooth.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Top Things To Do In Sri Lanka

Srilanka Ella Landscape
Srilanka Ella Landscape | Img Credit : amanjahemal via  Pixabay (CC0 Creative Commons)

 

Are you a first-time visitor to the beautiful, culturally and historically rich island of Sri Lanka? Here are some of the top things you should do when you’re here.

 

Hike
Sri Lanka is blessed with an array of jaw-dropping landscapes that are begging to be hiked on and explored. Don your hiking boots and set forth on any of the trails of Sri Pada, World’s End, Mini World’s End, Knuckles Mountain Range and much more.

 

Beach
Lay all day on the golden sands or enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the Indian Ocean, with an island cocktail in one hand. The southern and eastern beaches are the most popular for beach lovers. In Sri Lanka, resorts around the beach can be found in abundance, with accommodation options from Theme Resorts & Spas.

 

Temples
Being a Buddhist country, there are a number of temples you can visit, from the iconic Sri Dalada Maligawa to other temples in the country.

 

Wildlife
Did you know Sri Lanka is possibly the only country in the world where you can see the largest land animal and the largest sea mammal?! Visit Minneriya National Park for a chance to see elegant elephants or embark on a whale watching safari to see the ginormous blue whale.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Devil’s Peak Hong Kong

File:Devil's Peak, Hong Kong.JPG
Mk2010, Devil’s Peak, Hong Kong, CC BY-SA 3.0

There is nothing better that working up those calves, feeling the burn in the gut, trekking miles up a mountain and reaching that vantage point just to feel as if you are on top of the world. If you are busy away in the East on business and just want to take a break or if you have become the kind of modern trekker who loves a bit of outdoor adventure, hiking up Devil’s Peak in Hong Kong is the ideal activity for you!

While adrenaline junkies will not find the hike that challenging since it takes only one to one and half hours, there is no putting a price on soaking up the sight of the Kowloon skyline and filling up your lungs with fresh air at an elevation of 222 metres.

If you are planning to enjoy the indulgences of hotels in Kowloon, Hong Kong, try lodging at properties that cater to all types of travellers and which are centred amidst all the action and entertainment such as Dorsett Mongkok, Hong Kong. Even though this metropolis is one of the busiest, if you are looking for that laidback yet active getaway, a hike up Devil’s Peak is worth considering.

Hiking up Devil’s Peak is not merely an active pursuit. Since the area was once garrisoned by the British Army during the late 1800s, you can still see the remnants of some age-old batteries during your walk. As you move further up the peak, you will be awed by the staggering views of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon harbour front. For complete immersion of Hong Kong’s natural beauty, you ought to experience that silver screen worthy perspective atop Devil’s Peak.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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The Magnificent Geopark in Langkawi

Langkawi sky bridge
By Flickr user “The Dilly Lama”  [CC BY 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons
Langkawi is an archipelago that features more than a hundred different islands. The main island, also named Langkawi, was given the status of ‘World Geopark’ by UNESCO. The status of geopark is misinterpreted by many, but the title is only given to a place of scientific importance in regards to archaeological, scientific, ecological and cultural reasons as well. These islands have become a renowned tourism destination and there is an incredible amount of eco-friendly things to do in Langkawi as well as a range of hotels and resorts to choose from such as the Berjaya Langkawi Resort.

One of the best points that garnered Langkawi’s reputation as a geopark are the various rock formations that are to be seen. These formations are in turn surrounded by dense jungle, which hasn’t changed much in more than a million years. An immense load of the flora found in the geopark is exclusive to Langkawi. The Mangrove Rivers that snake through the Langkawi landscape contain an abundance of exotic life, ranging from aquatic creatures to various species of birds.

The MachinChang Mountains are one of the most notable aspects about the geopark. These rock formations are ancient, and were formed more than five-hundred-million years ago. This mountain range was the very first section of what is now South East Asia, to rise from under the oceans. The oldest section of this formation is Teluk Datai.

The Dayang Bunting Geopark is the second largest island of the entire chain. The island is famous for a massive lake that is situated in the heart of the dense forest. The lake was the result of a colossal limestone cave that collapsed. The lake is regarded as a spiritual place due the legend associated with it, where a divine maiden buried her dead child here and blessed the lake with fertility.

If you’re looking for a breath-taking voyage into nature, then Langkawi is a definitely a place worth thinking about.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

Hiking in Rumassala

Sri Lanka is renowned for its remarkable natural attractions and the island is sure to be a delight for those who appreciate the wonders of nature. The southern part of the island is appealingly picturesque and the renowned Rumassala Mountain would be a captivating locality in which to undertake an enjoyable hike. If you are visiting this part of the country and would be interested in Unawatuna hotels consider the attractively located Cantaloupe Levels.

The town of Unawatuna and its environs is always an agreeable place to visit. Here you will find inviting shimmering beaches with lively waves that will capture the interest of the leisure seeker. One of the most renowned natural attractions in this area is the mysterious Rumassala Mountain, which is considered to be a splendid locality for an invigorating hike.

A hike up Rumassala Mountain is sure to be a challenge, but it will undoubtedly be a rewarding experience. This area is renowned for its magical scenery and you will have the opportunity to admire the stunningly picturesque surroundings first hand on an enjoyable hike up this mountain.

Rumassala Mountain which was formerly also referred to as ‘Buono Vista’ is an intriguing place which is also linked with a number of local legends. It will also be a delightful setting for the nature lover with its outstanding flora and fauna. You may have the opportunity to spot playful monkeys in this area, with birds of prey also regularly spotted from the slopes of the mountain.

On the peak of the mountain, you will encounter the tranquil Peace Pagoda which is a well-known local Buddhist feature. You will also notice a statue of Hanuman, the monkey deity who is associated with the local folklore. However, perhaps the greatest reward of all would be the spectacular views over the surrounding areas that you can experience from the peak of this famous mountain.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Hiking in Hanthana Mountain

Hanthana  mountain range
Astronomyinertia, Hanthana range, CC BY-SA 3.0

Nestled southwest of the city of Kandy, the Hanthana Mountain range is one such hiking adventure you would always want to go on more than once. Decorated with seven scenic peaks, the trails are known to challenge the most daring of hiker, but a trip can be arranged as part of you Sri Lanka travel experience. Jetwing Travels, the organisers of Sri Lanka tours to many parts of the island will be more than happy to serve you.

Unearth the rich biodiversity of the area also called the Hanthana Conservation Forest. The highest of all the peaks is Uura Kanda and comes across as a picturesque setting for viewers to encounter wild flowers and colourful butterflies. With gusty winds and chilly weather throughout the year, a hike to Katusukonda which is the final chapter of the mountain range will prove to be quite entertaining.

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. Google+