Hiking And Trekking

Trek to Hanthana Mountain

If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience, Hanthana Mountain is a must-visit destination. With its rugged terrain, stunning views, and diverse flora and fauna, this mountain offers an unforgettable adventure for hikers of all levels.

Getting to Hanthana Mountain

Hanthana Mountain is located just a few kilometres from the city of Kandy, making it easily accessible for visitors staying at properties likes Hanthana Boutique Villa by Amaya. To reach the mountain, take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the trailhead at the University of Peradeniya. From there, it’s a steep climb to the summit, so make sure you’re prepared with sturdy shoes, water, and snacks.

The Trail

The trek up Hanthana Mountain takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. It is one of the most popular things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife. Along the way, you’ll encounter several rest stops where you can take a break, refuel, and enjoy the scenery.

Flora and Fauna

Hanthana Mountain is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. Keep an eye out for sambar deer, purple-faced langurs, and a variety of bird species, including the endemic Sri Lanka junglefowl. The mountain is also known for its rare and endangered plant species, such as the Hanthana blueberry and the Hanthana tree fern.

Cultural and Historical Sites

In addition to its natural beauty, Hanthana Mountain is also home to several cultural and historical sites. Near the summit, you’ll find the ruins of an ancient temple and a cave that was once used by Buddhist monks for meditation. These sites offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and are well worth a visit.

Popular Places to Visit in Sapporo for Tourists

A city chock-full of historical attractions, parks and food – that’s what Sapporo is. Based on the island of Hokkaido, there’s plenty for the casual adventurer to take in be it natural or man-made, as the culture of Japan lives strong in its 5th largest city.

Hokkaido, Japan | Image by Magic Mary on Unsplash

Jozankei Onsen (Hot Spring)

Japan is a country well-known for its hot springs, so it’s almost necessary to include it in this list! In this case, there is history as well – the mineral-rich water has attracted visitors since 1866, many of them seeking the prized healing waters of the spring.

Hokkaido Jingu (Shrine)

For those more willing to take in the local culture, there exists the famous Hokkaido Shrine, one of the most important religious sites in the entirety of Japan. Constructed in 1857, it is one of the attractions that remain close to hotels near Sapporo Station, merely 20-30 minutes away by train or less if by car.

Sapporo Beer Museum

A little-known fact is that Hokkaido, the island on which Sapporo lies, is the birthplace of beer in Japan! Considering that fact, the Sapporo Beer Museum depicts the long history of beer-brewing in Japan, and its tour ends on a high note – drinking freshly brewed beer straight from the brewery. The museum itself is a short drive from accommodation properties for tourists to stay in, such as the Travelodge Sapporo Susukino.

Odori Park

Sitting in stark contrast to the high-rise buildings around it, the Odori Koen is a sweeping green vista that stretches for around 1.5 kilometres, which also serves to connect some of Sapporo’s attractions, making it a great place to visit for any tourist to have an organic walk-through of the city and its highlights.

Sapporo TV Tower

This 147-meter-tall marvel of human construction is considered one of Sapporo’s most famous attractions – and for good reason, as the view from the top is spectacular and the perfect place to have a meal, night or day. You can reach this spot from the earlier-mentioned Odori Park, making it a good spot to visit after an evening stroll for a night-time meal.

Most Thrilling Adventure Activities in Kuala Lumpur

Whether you fancy plunging off skyscrapers strapped to a parachute, chasing cloud-misted sunset views atop picturesque peaks, or glimpsing a bird’s-eye view of KL’s beautiful fusion architecture from a vibrant hot air balloon, this vivacious Capital has plenty of palpitations in store. Here are some of its spine-tingling experiences.

Recreational Forest Escape

If there’s nothing like nature to rejuvenate your spirits, you can combine this refreshing tranquillity with some adrenaline-rich activities, such as zip-lining, tightrope walking, and flying from tree to tree, at Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest, where you can embrace your inner Tarzan in the lush Skytrex rainforest obstacle course.

Whitewater Rafting Thrills

If aerial antics aren’t your strong suit, jungle river rapids await you just one hour away from KL at Kuala Kubu Bharu, where you can plummet through wild currents, hike up panoramic trails, chase musical cascades, and meet interesting indigenous tribes. If you’re looking for sophisticated suites in Kuala Lumpur proffering prime access to its most enthralling urban diversions, venture no further than the likes of PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur.

SuperPark Shenanigans

If you’re not super outdoorsy but are craving a spontaneous adrenaline rush, head over to the multi-purpose adventure wonderland of SuperPark, with its enticingly diverse arenas comprising of everything from obstacle walls, zip lines, and sports zones to trampolines, foam pits, and skate parks.

Dine in a River

If gastronomic expeditions excite you like nothing else, Ampang’s ultra-fancy BBQ Lamb KL Kemensah serves you deliciously gourmet food, including succulently grilled meat and seafood doused in homemade sauces, in the middle of a gushing river shaded by tree canopies!

Discover the Beauty of Bandung: A Guide to Your Perfect Day Trip

As the country’s 3rd largest city, Bandung is not only West Java’s mountain stronghold, but a holiday hotspot for the masses. Here’s what day-trippers can do during a tour of this scenic hideaway.

Tangkuban Perahu | Image by Affan Fadhlan on Unsplash

Marvel at the Cimahi Rainbow Waterfall

While the best time to gaze upon the Cimahi waterfall is during sunset when the light turns the cascade into a vertical rainbow, this towering natural wonder is stunning at any hour. Although the waterfall is known to double in size during the monsoon season, it is worth visiting the venue during the warmer months so that the hike up to the location is a more pleasant experience.

Hike Up the Tangkuban Perahu Volcano

No day tour of Badung would be complete without exploring the Tangkuban Perahu Volcano, which erupted for the last time in 2013. Those who are based at the FOX Harris Hotel City Center Bandung or any of the best hotels in Bandung must find a local tour operator for this volcanic tour even if the hike up to the crater’s lips is not that long.

Take a Dip in the Hot Springs

One of the best things to do in Badung is to enjoy a dip in the many hot springs in town. These hot springs are a result of the area’s volcanic heritage. Apart from the healing benefits of this warm dip, one can also unwind in style at either the Cibolang hot spring or the Sari Ater.

Uncover the Tea Estates

Don’t forget to stop by the many tea estates occupying Bandung where one can not only explore the tea plantations but also sign up for a factory tour. The tea estates close to Kawah Putih are especially captivating and ideal for long walks.

Trekking in Sri Lanka

Wondering where to spend your next island gateway? Sri Lanka will be an ideal choice with its exciting mix of mesmeric beaches, wildlife, and cultural sights.

Hill_Country | img by Sandali.L.Kumarasinghe via wikipedia commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Sri Lankan wildlife

Your safari tours in Sri Lanka will be incomplete if you fail to spot a Sri Lankan leopard. It is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. Leopard watching is an exciting activity adored by many tourists who visit Sri Lanka for a holiday. The Yala National Park consists of the highest density of leopards, and it is the best place to enjoy a glimpse of these wonderful spotted wild creatures.

Explore the picturesque hill country

Sri Lanka’s hill country is the most stunning, mist-wrapped land featuring spellbinding views lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and scenic mountains. Nuwara Eliya is a must-visit city showcasing some of the finest golf courses in Asia, breathtaking surroundings and exciting activities like course trekking, horse riding and camping. There are many accommodation options offered by travel entities like Amaya Resorts & Spas to make the best out of your stay.

A train ride to Kandy or Haputale

The train ride between Kandy and Ella is popular as one of the world’s top ten scenic train rides! This route will take you through vast and never-ending tea plantations in the country. The journey will take around four hours. Another option to consider will be to stop for a day or two in the small town of Haputale without going all the way to Kandy.

Go on a safari ride

Despite its appealing biological endemism, Sri Lanka is one of the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots. Sri Lanka is home to one of the three types of Asian elephants. Due to its largest concentration of elephants, leisure travellers from all around the world spare time to go on an elephant-watching safari to Yala.

Adventure at the Yala National Park

The Yala National Park is a designated wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka and is well known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. If your holiday itinerary includes a visit to the Yala National Park, be sure to take a peek at these nearby wonders.

Ruhuna National Park

This is the most visited area in the Yala National Park and is known for its high density of leopards. Ruhuna National Park, also known as Area 1 is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, spotted deer, and peacocks.

Kumana National Park

Counting the number of things to do in Yala? Why not pay a visit to Kumana National Park, once known as Yala East? Located in the southeast part of Sri Lanka, Kumana National Park is known for its wide range of bird species, including migratory birds from Europe and Asia. It is also home to elephants, crocodiles, and several species of deer.

Palatupana

Located on the coast of Yala National Park and only a 15-minute ride away from Cinnamon Wild Yala, Palatupana is a coastal town with beaches of clear, turquoise waters and white sandy shores. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and is also a great place to spot a variety of sea creatures, including dolphins and whales.

Situlpawwa Magul Maha Vihara

This ancient Buddhist temple is located within Yala National Park and is a popular spot for visitors interested in the park’s cultural history. The temple is surrounded by the lush green jungle and is a peaceful spot to take a break from the rest of the park.

Kudumbigala Monastery

Located approximately 22km from Yala National Park, this ancient Buddhist monastery is built on a beautiful rock. It’s a peaceful spot for meditation and contemplation and would be the ideal visit for those who appreciate a touch of spirituality in their vacation.

A perfect retreat for couples to rejuvenate and to connect

Looking for ideas to plan a retreat with that special someone this year? Here are some ideas that offer options for adventure and relaxation with plenty of memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Set Sail to the Dalmatian Coast

A unique retreat awaits couples embarking on a private yacht journey to explore the Dalmatian Coast and its enchanting islands in Croatia. It can include a chance to spend time in the Old City of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient palaces, churches and monasteries. You can also look forward to wandering around the forests of Mljet, visiting the intriguing Odysseus Cave, and heading to Korcula home to idyllic coves and vineyards.

Enjoy Holistic Healing in Hunter Valley

In New South Wales, you will find one of the major wine regions in Australia, the Hunter Valley. Resort and spa options can be found here at properties like Elysia Wellness Retreat that provide the perfect escape for those looking to get away from it all and experience a transformative journey. Couples can enjoy all-inclusive health and wellness programmes, holistic counselling, revitalising spa treatments, guidance in breathing & Qi Gong, walks amidst nature and more.

Go Hiking Amidst the Sacred Valley

Couples who love hiking can plan a retreat in Peru’s Sacred Valley region where they will encounter spellbinding natural beauty and awe-inspiring ancient monuments. One of the unforgettable experiences here is to go on a four-day hike along the Inca Trail; you will journey through cloud forests, see stunning mountain views, and comes across historical ruins. The highlight would be arriving at Machu Picchu, the breathtaking focal point of the Inca Empire.

Encounter Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands

For unique wildlife encounters, you and your partner can consider a getaway to the Galapagos Islands, a remote part of Ecuador. Depending on the chosen package, you can look forward to visiting islands like Isabela where you can see everything from Galapagos giant tortoises to adorable sea lions. You can also look forward to snorkelling amidst manta rays and sea turtles, heading to the Charles Darwin Research Station and hiking to the Sierra Negra Volcano.

Explore the Natural Beauty of Kandy

There are many reasons why Kandy, the hill capital of Sri Lanka, is considered one of the best locations for trekking. Kandy is surrounded by beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and forests with diverse flora and fauna. The city is also home to cultural attractions and can be reached easily from other major cities in Sri Lanka. What’s more? Kandy is considered a safe destination for travellers; this makes it the perfect location for an unforgettable trekking adventure. Here are several tips to keep in mind when planning your trek in Kandy.

Wear Comfortable, Sturdy Shoes

Trekking in Kandy can involve walking over rough terrain, so it’s essential to have shoes that can protect your feet from rough areas and provide good support. If you want to be on the safe side, opt for hiking shoes; this will help you navigate various locations with ease.

Pack Light

Ensure to bring only the essentials and leave any unnecessary items at home; this will help you to travel to various locations in Kandy more comfortably and enjoy exciting things to do in Sri Lanka as you traverse the area. Bring a backpack with you with a few water bottles and some snacks.

Wear Protective Clothing

Kandy Town — Image via Wikimedia Commons – Charith Gunarathna, Kandy Sri Lanka (25818382171), CC BY 2.0

Depending on the weather and the type of trek you are doing, it may be wise to bring protective clothing such as a rain jacket or sunscreen. Kandy observes both the rainy season and the sunny season. So, make sure to prepare yourself in advance. If you want to travel to Kandy safely and quickly, use Cinnamon Air.

Protect the Environment

Remember to protect the natural environment and take steps to minimize your impact – this may include disposing of trash properly or avoiding disturbing wildlife. Be an environmentally conscious traveller and preserve the environment for younger generations.

Adventures to Explore in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, also known as Little England in Sri Lanka, is where you will spoil your eyes with the most dazzling sights of misty mountains, serene lakes, and charming cottages. If your adrenaline calls out for you during your visit to this alluring city, here are some actions to indulge in.

Biking

Bike through the serene tea plantations and lush greenery around you to get to the best places to see in Nuwara Eliya for an exhilarating feeling. The fresh breeze on your face and the scenic views will make you feel refreshed. You can even ride back and forth from our stay at Araliya Green City without having to find taxis or tuk-tuks.

Jet Skiing

The most stunning attraction in the heart of Nuwara Eliya is the gorgeous Gregory Lake, where you can go jet skiing to get the adrenaline pumping through your body. The lake water turning into vapor combined with the fresh and cold wind will make jet skiing the most refreshing experience for you.

Follow the hiking trails to witness the breathtaking sunrise enlightening the skies at Adam’s Peak and worship the sacred footprint of Lord Buddha. You can also go hiking in the mountains gracing the skyline and enjoy the lush greenery and the spectacular views.

The Towering Jabal Sawda in Saudi Arabia

If you love outdoor adventures and are heading to Saudi Arabia, make time to ascend Jabal Sawda, a well-known mountain that offers much to experience.

Where Is It?

This mountain can be found in the Asir province and is part of the Sarawat Mountain Range overlooking a section of the Red Sea coast. Those planning a visit will find it only around 20 km from the city of Abha; accommodation options here include serviced apartments at properties like Citadines Abha which makes an ideal base for your travels.

Towering to The Skies

This mountain is known to reach an impressive height of over 3,000 metres providing stunning views of the surrounding areas. While certain sources claim it’s the highest mountain in Saudi Arabia, there is some dispute over this with others stating that the title should go to Jabal Ferwa. Either way, you should not miss visiting Jabal Sawda!

The Idyllic Setting

Those who head here can expect a mesmerising setting with juniper trees and other flora creating a lush landscape. Added to this, are the cool climate and refreshing breezes that make it a popular place for locals looking to escape the heat. Right at the top, clouds shroud the peak adding to the sense of enchantment.

Things To Do

Apart from unwinding here amidst the spellbinding natural beauty, you can engage in some captivating things to do as well. Hiking is a popular pastime to enjoy with both easy and challenging paths on offer. It’s also a great spot for having picnics, while shutterbugs will have plenty to photograph at some breathtaking vantage points.