Pidurangala Rock Hike in Sigiriya

It is deemed that the Pidurangala hike offers a far more memorable experience than climbing Sigiriya as the former lets you engulf in the warmth of nature.

The Hike

The hike begins with a long flight of stairs that doesn’t take much time to climb. Halfway through the journey, you’d be greeted by Pidurangala Temple, which has a rich history of its own. You can reach the summit of Pidurangala within 20 minutes despite some off the beaten tracks you’d come across during the hike.

Pidurangala Temple

At present, one can only see the remnants of this temple in which a reclining Buddha can be observed. The foundation of the rock temple remains intact although it has been restructured with bricks.

Reaching the Summit

Once you pass the temple, you can expect to reach the summit within 5 to 10 minutes. However, one might have to cross large boulders along the way, which would prove relatively easy to experienced hikers. Fret not! Even the less experienced can boulder with the help of others.

The View

While you’re enjoying a fabulous vacation at some of the Sigiriya hotels the likes of Aliya Resort and Spa, head over to the Pidurangala trail to access the most stunningly beautiful sunrise you’d ever witness in a lifetime.

 

 

Best hiking trails in Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka is a wonderful activity to do to help relax your mind and get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy metropolitan city! Here are some of the best hiking trails on the island that one must consider before going on a hike!

Little Adams Peak

A hiking trail in the mountainous town of Ella, the view from Little Adam’s Peak is of luscious tea plantations covered in fluffy white mist. The hike is not too hard and should take you approximately 2-3 hours in total. If you are looking to take up accommodation close by, many hotel offers in Sri Lanka can be taken advantage of including those offered by properties belonging to the famous Heritance Hotels and Resorts.

Rahubaddhah, Wondering while wandering, in Paradise, CC BY-SA 4.0

Ella Rock

About 1000 metres above sea-level, the Ella Rock is a day hike for those who are visiting the town and want to go on an adventure. They say it is best to leave your hotel in the early morning hours as afternoons bring in the rain on this part of the island. Once you are at the top its all about amazing views of the Badulla green valleys.

Horton Plains

A UNESCO national park in Sri Lanka, Horton Plains is a must-do hike if you are ever in Nuwara Eliya. Consisting of a rich plateau of thick forests and grasslands, the Horton Plains hike is a breeze even for beginners! Another important thing to see here is the World’s End which is a steep 800 metre fall overlooking the countryside.

Knuckles Mountain Range

Also located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, between Kandy and Matale, the Knuckles Mountain range is a camper’s haven! There are many options for hikers who wish to trek the Knuckles Mountain range. There is a day hike (done on one of the lowest mountain peaks) or the three-day, 2-night hike that includes overnight camping and nights under the stars. The choice is yours!

 

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Bintan Indonesia

Hidden among lush green foliage, and surrounded by idyllic beachscapes, Bintan Island is a paradisiacal escape for travelling enthusiasts from all walks of life. As a solo traveller, there are many things to know and prepare for before embarking on a solitary journey.

Image credit-Pixabay,riyan_hidayart ,CC0

Transportation

Once you arrive at the main town of Bintan, you can board a ferry that is coming all the way from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. From there, you can travel to Pekanbaru by boat and get down at a certain point between the islands Sumatra and Bintan. From that point onwards, you can ride a speed boat, which is also known as a water bus to reach your destination, that is, Bintan Island.

Accommodation

Hostels are hard to come by unless you’re in a big city. Various places offer accommodation, and after thorough research, one can find the best Bintan resort package. It is an excellent option to take lodgings closer to the island, in properties such as Bintan Lagoon Resort.

Clothing

Many parts of Indonesia are still traditional. Therefore, you might want to dress modestly. You don’t have to wear headscarves or long-sleeved clothing. A simple t-shirt and denim will do!

Activities

From a temple tucked into a banyan tree on the East coast to Gurun Pasir Busung, an ancient sand mining site that is quite picture-worthy, there is much to experience in this paradisiacal island. Hiring a diver cum guide upon the arrival of the island will make things easier as they know just where to take you.

Explore the Whistler Village

Whistle Village is perhaps Canada’s most famous ski resort destination. Nestled between the towering Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, Whistler Villages is simply paradise for anyone passionate about winter sports and thrill-seeking.

A Gondola Ride

Most Whistler hotel and resort establishments – for example, the Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside – will include a host of activities in their itinerary list, and most of them will start off by mentioning the amazing peak-to-peak gondola ride! Take in stunning views of the mountain valleys as you travel from Whistleblower to Blackcomb from up on high!

Experience the Local Culture

IF you want to get a flavour of Whistler Village’s local culture and history, head on over to the First Nations Museum. Here you will find fascinating relics belonging to the local Squamish and Lil’wat people – from masks and attire to hunting utensils. You can even book a tour here and enjoy some traditional Squamish dishes to end the day!

Winter Sports

Of course, the main draw of Whistler Village is the winter sports, so be sure to try some out for yourself! In particular, consider an exciting bike ride through the mountains at Whistler Mountain Bike Park or try out bungee jumping to get the adrenaline flowing.

Hiking Opportunities

The areas surrounding Whistler Village are perfect for a great hiking or camping trip. Locations such as Lost Lake or Garibaldi National Park are prime for an outing – here you’ll find a stunning array of natural beauty, be it the distant mountains, lush vegetation, or unique wildlife.

Meta Description

Whistler Village is a great destination for those interested in winter sports or for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors – try activities like mountain biking and camping!

Hiking the Dragon Crest Mountain Trail

Hiking enthusiasts heading to Krabi should not miss exploring the Dragon Crest Mountain Trail which is among the area’s best loved trekking hubs for travellers and locals alike.

Dragon Crest Mountain at a Glance

Known as Khao Ngon Nak in the local tongue, Dragon Crest Mountain is no ordinary hiking hub in Krabi. With a 3.7km long hiking trail that leads to some of the most spectacular viewing points in the area, it is a must explore highlight for all visitors. Accessible free of charge, the mountain is easy to navigate even for the least experienced hikers. The entire hike takes no more than 2 and a half hours or even an hour, depending on one’s own fitness and hiking prowess. The best reward of the hike awaits travellers who reach the top as it is said that all of Krabi lays open before one’s eyes.

Reaching Dragon Crest Mountain

The best way to reach the Dragon Crest Mountain is to hop on a motorbike taxi or a rented motorcycle and drive up to the location. It is important to carry bottles of water and snacks as there are few shops at the base of the mountain. Those based at Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort or any similar hotel in Ao Nang Krabi can get a picnic to go or a hamper full of snacks prepared in advance. The hiking trail also closes to visitors by 5pm so heading there early in the morning is recommended.

The Experience

Well marked with various points designated, the trail is easy to navigate. Hikers will also find picturesque areas and viewpoints on the way to the top so don’t forget to bring a camera.

Jebel Shams of Oman

The Jebel Shams is one of the most beautiful places in the world that you can visit not only in Oman but in the whole world. It is part of the spectacular Grand Canyon of Arabia – the Al Nakhr Canyon.

Introduction

There are plenty of things to do when you go to the Jebel Shams which is what makes it a must-visit attraction for sightseeing in Oman.

Image Credit: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

For Camping

The Jebel Shams is referred to as the Mountain of the Sun in Arabic because it is the first place that receives sunrise in Oman. It is a great place to go camping or if you’d like to talk to your local hotel like Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort for glamping options.

Stargazing and Night Photography

The Jebel Shams is a great place to go stargazing or for long exposure night photography. However, the conditions have to be great as well as it being a moonless night. Thanks to it being away from light pollution areas it can guarantee great shots.

Image Credit: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort 

Hiking

There are three major hike routes in the Jebel Shams which include the Al Nakhur Rim hike, Al Khitaym to Wadi Ghul hike and the Jabal Shams summit hike. The summit is not the highest point which is inaccessible due to there being a military outpost situated there.

 

Most adventurous hikes in South Korea

When 70% of the landscape of South Korea is mountains, it’ll be a loss if you don’t plan a hike or two during your days in this destination. You don’t necessarily need to be a hiker to have this experience if you have even a slight passion for adventure- this is something you should try out!

Seoraksan
Seoraksan | Image Credit : Taewangkorea, Dinosaur Ridge of Seoraksan, CC BY-SA 4.0

Seoraksan – the tallest and the prettiest

Seoraksan’s highest peak is Daecheongbonh which is about 5600 feet high. The treks will not exceed 3 hours for sure, and you will surely be rewarded with sensational views all the way.

Bukhansan- lungs of Seoul

If you are staying at a hotel near Myeongdong Station the likes of Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro, traveling to the Bukhansan National Park will take less than 1 hour, this is where you will find the Bukhansan Mountain.

Taebaeksan – where you can see snow flowers

This is a mountain that generally blooms in the winter and if you plan your hike during this season, you will be lucky to see tree branches sparkle with frozen snow!

Songnisan – the best for sight seekers

Songnisan is popular as one mountain range that has magnificent mountains. The best views are available if you plan your hike during the autumn season.

 

The Knuckles Forest Reserve

The Knuckles Mountain Range is located in the central highlands of Kandy and is a famous range of mountains that dissect the central province from the Matale District.

Image credit: flickr.com

A Biodiverse Hotspot

The Knuckles are considered a biodiversity hotspot and are situated at 3000 ft above sea level covering an area of 21 hectares. The range has five peaks: Kirigalpoththa, Gombaniya, Knuckles, Koboneelagala and Dotulugala.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The misty mountains were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in in 2009 after being declared a climate reserve in 1873. It is one of two UNESCO World Heritage nature sites in the country and is home to many Knuckles Sri Lanka hotels.

Climate and Weather

The climate in the Knuckles can range from very hot to freezing cold. During the season of January to March, there are instances of reported frost on the higher elevations.

Distinct Features

The Knuckles massif separates the hills of the Dumbara valley in a deep gorge. There are many picturesque waterfalls and several hiking trails each with their distinct features. Wild Glamping Knuckles is one of the ways you can choose to spend a comfortable hike in the mountains.

The Forest Reserve Diversity

The reserve has a list of 1033 species of plants of which 15% are endemic to the region. There are 128 species of birds, 31 species of mammals and 20 species of amphibians.

Backpacking Adelaide Travel Guide

Backpacking is a fun and exciting thing to do, especially as you learn a lot of skills and knowledge as time goes by. Here are some tips when you backpack in Adelaide!

Cost

Adelaide is known to be one of the easily affordable cities in Australia so you won’t have to fret too much! For the first few days, those who are looking for the best hotel in Adelaide can consider staying at places such as Avani Adelaide Residences before you start on your adventures.

Image Credit: Avani Adelaide Residences

Cooking

Once you get started on your backpacking, the best way to save money is to buy your own groceries and cook at home. You can even improve your cooking skills as you do this!

Bargain shopping

In need of something? Then you can always go bargain shopping. There’s always a sale in Adelaide, so you’re in luck.

Travellers travel photobook from Melbourne, Australia, Australia, Adelaide – SA (28182515789)CC BY 2.0

Free things to do

There are plenty of fun and free things to do in Adelaide. Do your research first so that you can experience these and save some money.

 

Mount Phou Si

Ever heard of the sacred mountain in Luang Prabang with a challenging flight of 300 stairs with a magnificent panoramic view as a reward? Yes, this article speaks of none other than Mount Phousi which is a must-see attraction here. Here are a few things to know if you plan on visiting the mountain.

Gerd Eichmann, Luang Prabang-Phou Si-06-gje, CC BY-SA 4.0

Entrance fees and timing

The entrance fee for the mountain is about 20,000 kip. The fare will be collected once you are halfway uphill. Also, the mountain is open for sightseeing from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm.

A Sacred Mountain

Mount Phousi translates to “sacred mountain” or “sacred hill”. It bears great significance to the Buddhists in the local area. On the stairways, flower vendors and bird vendors sit, selling. their blessing offerings to visitors. Remember to dress appropriately and respect the peaceful atmosphere here.

Wat Chom Si

This is a temple with a golden stupa on the top of the mountain which was built in 1804. With the temple is a grotto that shelters a big statue of Buddha which is worshipped by the locals with offerings and prayers.

Allie CaulfieldWat Chom Si stupa (2009a)CC BY 2.0

Best time to visit

Mount Phousi offers breath-taking views of both the sunrise and the sunset. However, if you want to avoid the mad rush of crowds, its better to be there before sunrise. This would be even more convenient if you are lodged at Avani+ Luang Prabang or another hotel in Luang Prabang a short distance away from the property.

Gerd EichmannLuang Prabang-Phou Si-14-Sonnenuntergang-gjeCC BY-SA 4.0