Land - The Adventure Travel Site

Minneriya Elephant Gathering

The elephant gathering at Minneriya is one of the most famous wildlife phenomena in the world! Elephants from different herds all gather together to travel in search of water to Minneriya Wewa. One could even call it the elephant’s summer home for their summer vacation.

When and where?

Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park is the spot where elephants from all over the country gather. This occurs during the dry season from July to October.

Why?

During the dry season of Sri Lanka, the water available for these huge mammals decrease in other parts of the country. Minneriya National Park has plenty of water and shelter for these giants of the wild.

How can I see the gathering?

This is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. You can rent a vehicle from Malkey Rent A Car and drive up to this region. There are a few hotels that provide easy access to this national park at which you could stay and set out with a guide at the right time.

Best time to go

Although you’ve got time from July to October, the best time to visit for the best experience would be in August and September.

Minneriya National Park

Giving you the perfect respite from becoming ‘templed-out during your stay in Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park will feast your eyes with its famous ‘elephant gathering’. Read and know more facts.

Overview

Dominated by the ancient Minneriya Tank, the park unfolds plenty of lush forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It’s located in the North Central Province, Polonnaruwa district. The wetlands closer to the reservoir provides an important feeding ground during the dry season. If you are starting your journey from Colombo, book an air taxi in Sri Lanka with an entity like Cinnamon Air, to make your journey faster and hassle-free

The elephant gathering

This is an entirely natural phenomenon that takes place between August and September annually. The largest meeting venue for Asian elephants! Park’s reservoir welcomes more than 300 elephants during the dry season. An amazing sight to behold!

Vegetation

The park’s vegetation comprises wetlands, grasslands, abandoned chena cultivated lands, and tropical dry mixed lush forests. The reservoir along with its surroundings plays a significant role as a wetland, speaking volumes of its rich biodiversity.

Fauna

The Minneriya National Park is home to more than 24 species of endemic animals. The most important of them is the ‘wild elephant’. You can also spot different species of aquatic birds and fishes.

What You Need to Know About the Sacred City of Kandy

Popularly known as the city of Senkadagalapura, the sacred city of Kandy was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1988. Drawing tourists, pilgrims and other visitors in numbers, this city radiates a celestial atmosphere which makes it stand out among other cities in Sri Lanka.

The Positioning

1024px-Knuckles_Forest,_Sri_lanka — Abishek Palraj, Knuckles Forest, Sri lanka, CC BY-SA 4.0

Kandy is located in the central part of the country, with an elevation of 500 metres from sea level. Hidden in the thick forests and majestic mountain ranges, the city stands in pride in all its glory. These mountain ranges include two of Sri Lanka’s most beloved hiking hot spots, Knuckles and Hanthana. Kandy’s location and historical significance have been core reasons for opening up many hotels and resorts like Hunas Falls Hotel, Kandy. Most tourists and pilgrims who visit this sacred city often seek accommodation in a hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka for a comfortable stay as a day’s trip will not do justice to the beauty of the city.

The History

Kandy was the last capital of the country in the era of the ancient kings. It is also home to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Tooth which shelters the relic of the tooth of Lord Buddha. Although the locals rebelled massively to save the kingdom of Kandy from British rule, the efforts were finally beaten as the British Ceylon period rose from 1815 to 1948, until the country was freed of colonial rule and gained independence.

Climate

While Sri Lanka is widely known for its tropical weather conditions, Kandy’s geographical positioning deviates the city climate to a wetter and cooler temperature as a result of its 500-metre elevation from sea level. However, the city is still a part of the country’s tropical climate and faces the monsoon seasons from May to July and October to December.

The Kandy City

The cityscape of Kandy includes a quadrangular manmade lake at its centre, with two open spaces in which one corner is occupied by the administration buildings of the old capital. Although not as commercialised as Colombo, Kandy still welcomes tourists and hosts several hotels, shopping complexes and local eateries to taste the traditional flavours of Sri Lanka.

An Unforgettable Visit to Mount Huashan

Be you looking for daring adventures or hiking escapades, Mount Huashan in China is not to be missed and here’s more on what to expect.

Planning Your Visit

Mount Huashan is in the Shaanxi Province around 120 km from Xian; accommodation can be easily found here including at coliving properties like lyf Dayanta Xi’an which make an ideal base. For transport, consider the 30-40-minute high-speed train from Xian North Railway Station to Huashan North Railway Station, only around 5 km from the mountain.

What to Expect

Rising to a height of approximately 2,154 metres, Mount Huashan is considered one of China’s famed “Five Mountains”. It has five peaks (North, South, East, West, Middle), each with something different to offer; those exploring this enchanting site will come across amazing panoramas, ancient Taoist temples and some seemingly death-defying paths to traverse!

Changkong Plank Trail

Billed as the most dangerous hiking trail in the world, the Huashan Plank Walk will test even the hardiest of adrenaline junkies. It features an old plank trail along the cliff face of the South Peak; some sections are a mere 30 cm and there are no handrails and a sheer drop beneath; those daring to try this trail can breathe a little easier knowing there’s a safety harness in case you lose your footing!

Other Attractions

Those not quite so keen to “walk the plank”, can take in some of the many other attractions here. These include Yuquan Temple which is a sacred Taoist site, the Thousand Feet Zhuang Path with its narrow steps cut into the mountain and Black Dragon Ridge; also, of note is the Chess Playing Pavilion set amidst a “sea” of mists and clouds.

Hiking Adventures

This mountain is the perfect place for those looking to go hiking in China; the best thing is, one can explore trails on each of the five peaks. The North Peak is the gateway to the other peaks and home to sites like the Golden Lock Pass; you can also ascend the South Peak, which is the highest of the five, while the West and East peaks are known for their stunning sunsets and sunrises respectively.

Flight of the Gibbon

There is nothing quite like the feeling of zooming across the treetops of a vast forest. The rush and thrill are what most people sign up for to spice up their vacation!

The Flight of the Gibbon

This landmark attracted was established back in 2007 in the hopes of bringing to the people a new form of entertainment. If you are looking for an apartment for rent in Sriracha such as the Somerset Harbourview Sri Racha, be sure to spend some time trying out the zipline as well!

Safety

This zipline is extremely safe and is built using the best quality equipment from Europe and has been tested to meet all international regulations.

History of Flight of the Gibbon

This brand was the first zipline tour operator in Thailand and home to the longest zipline in Asia.

Locations

People who are in Thailand and are hoping to experience the zipline for themselves can now visit the Chonburi and Mae Kham locations.

Exploring the Shangqing Ancient Trail

More than 1,000 years old, the Shangqing Ancient Trail with its bamboo forest and pristine natural beauty is popular for hiking excursions from Shanghai.If you love nature and hiking, then add the Shangqing Ancient Trail to your itinerary the next time you are in Shanghai and here’s more on what you need to know.

Image credit- Unsplash,Marek Piwnicki,CC0

Planning Your Trip

This ancient trail is in the Zhejiang Province around 200 km from Shanghai, around a 2.5 to 3-hour drive away. For those staying in the Keqiao District of Shaoxing, serviced apartments here including those on offer at Citadines Keqiao Shaoxing make an ideal base in the city. Since getting to the trail can be tricky using public transport, consider signing up with a tour group.

A Long History

Also referred to as the Huiji Ancient Caravan Trail, this ancient trail is said to go back over a thousand years! It was originally the only road that connected Shengzhou County and Shaoxing County; this area was well-developed in the Tang Dynasty period and was linked with the trade of items like tea, wood and bamboo.

The Trail Today

While no more used for trade, the Shangqing Ancient Trail today offers the ideal hiking adventure set amidst scenic natural beauty. The most well-known section is the one connecting Suosiqiao Village with Xinlian Village and it’s well preserved too; it’s around 11 km long and features stone pavements and over 1,400 stone steps.

Hiking Highlights

The chance to enjoy pristine nature is one of the allures of the Shangqing Ancient Trail; you will come across an enchanting bamboo forest which adds to the area’s charm as well as shelters originally constructed for merchants who used this trail. You will also pass a more modern reservoir and at Xinlian Village, some old houses and eateries too.

Top Reasons Why You Need to Visit Qatar

The nation of Qatar offers an array of alluring attractions for visitors. Seekers of sunny weather, shopping enthusiasts, and adventure lovers will all enjoy experiencing the attractions of this country.

The great weather

Qatar Sunny climate | Image via *unsplash*

If you seek a holiday destination with sunny weather, Qatar would be a great choice. You will find that the weather here would generally be pleasant. Winters in this country will be very mild, and the coldest month would be January. Meanwhile, summers will be warm and humid, with July being the hottest month, though there are plenty of air-conditioned comforts too!

The shopping opportunities

Qatar offers a splendid selection of shopping options. If you seek large modern malls you will not be disappointed here, with the Mall of Qatar being a highlight. On the other hand, for a traditional shopping experience, there is the historical Souq Waqif as well as Souq Al Wakra beside the coast; an accommodation choice to consider located next to the latter would be Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli which also offers a spa in Doha Qatar.

The blend of modernity and tradition

The nation of Qatar inherits a rich cultural heritage as suggested by its architecture, museums, marketplaces, and World Heritage Sites certified by UNESCO like the Al Zubarah Archaeological Site. However, this nation has also embraced modernity, as shown by its impressive skyscrapers, contemporary amenities, and modern infrastructure.

The outdoor adventures

Adventure seekers will be in their element in Qatar as this nation offers an array of exciting escapades. Outdoor adventurers will enjoy skydiving above the Arabian Gulf, ascending sand dunes, scuba diving off the coast and so on. You could also embark on an ATV desert safari, ride camels, go kayaking and more!

Night Cycling in Singapore

Want to avoid Singapore’s daytime humid, warm temperatures? Then consider exploring this cosmopolitan city at night via cycling. You will be treated to stunning, brightly lit-up displays, and you can do so comfortably with a gentle breeze on your back.

City highlights

Explore Singapore’s main highlights by cycling the Marina Bay route. The route takes you by Singapore’s electrifying skyline and famous attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer, Esplanade and the bayfront area. Consider venturing further to explore the Eastern Coastal Loop, including East Coast Park.

History lane

Many Singapore serviced apartments, the likes of Citadines Raffles Place Singapore, are located a stone’s throw away from the city’s famed Civic District. Historical landmarks, including City Hall, the museum, Supreme Court, and Bugis district, can easily be discovered via night cycling.

Nature routes

Alternatively, you can explore Singapore’s wildlife and nature reserves via the Northern Explorer and Western Adventure Loops. The former begins from Lower Seletar Reservoir Park and takes you by Mandai and Admiralty parks. The 12km Western Loop goes by Jurong Lake and Bukit Batok Nature parks. Consider cycling the North Eastern Riverine Loop, which begins at Punggol Park.

All you need to know

You can indulge in night cycling by renting a bike or joining a night cycling tour. It is best that you cycle with a group to avoid getting lost. Ensure you check your bike’s brakes, light functions, and the weather before heading out.

Set Off on a Hike to Knuckles

Renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Knuckles Mountain range has been famed for its human fist like appearance from certain angles. This magnificent gift of nature is located in the Kandy and Matale districts of Sri Lanka and is highly popular among hikers from all over the world.

Knuckles_mountain_range_-_Sri_Lanka — Thusitha Jayasundara, Knuckles mountain range – Sri Lanka, CC BY-SA 4.0

How to Get to Knuckles

While several access points allow you to reach Knuckles, the most popular entrance is in Matale. However, this solely depends on where you are residing at. If you plan to travel to Kandy on a vacation, the access point will not be over a journey of an hour or two to Hunnasgiriya, once again, based on the route that you choose to take. However, do visit the Kandy Escapes website for a deeper insight on how to adapt and prepare for the weather conditions in Kandy, if you wish to enter Knuckles from a Kandy access point.

How to Climb Knuckles

While Knuckles’ popularity attracts many hikers, it is only advisable that you climb the mountain range if you carry a considerable level of experience in the art. However, a guide must accompany you, regardless of your level of hiking experience, in order to avoid getting lost. Therefore, a qualified guide will direct you through the paths that should be taken.

Grab a Bite on The Way

As you climb up one of Sri Lanka’s most difficult mountain trails, hunger will not be too far away. Being a protected reserve prevents hotels and resorts from opening up in the Knuckles and therefore, food is likely to become a luxury during the course of your hike. Stock up what you need in a backpack and grab a bite whenever hunger takes you over.

Other Attractions

While setting off on an adventurous hike is what Knuckles is known for, the areas surrounding this mountain range host plenty of other attractions for hikers and tourists. Deep into the forest lies Meemure, a rural village of picturesque views, Kandy, the sacred city of the Temple of the Tooth and the Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple in Matale.

Adventure Experiences in Sri Lanka

Adventure lovers will be in their element in Sri Lanka as the island nation offers many exciting outdoor experiences for active visitors that are sure to captivate and delight.

Image credit- Unsplash,achinthya dinoli,CC0

Climbing Adam’s Peak

A unique adventure experience in Sri Lanka would be ascending the sacred mountain known as Adam’s Peak and catching the sunrise from its summit; there are several available trails by which to access this mountain featuring different levels of difficulty. To learn more about such places to visit in Sri Lanka, check specialist travel websites like Truly Sri Lanka.

Bicycle tours & water sports

Another appealing adventure excursion in Sri Lanka would be embarking on a bicycle tour in the environs of the town of Bentota along lanes that are flat, quiet and shaded. Bentota also happens to be a hub for water sports and you can take part in everything from jet-skiing and banana boating to water-skiing and surfing.

White water rafting

Drawing adrenaline junkies from around the world, white water rafting in Sri Lanka is not to be missed. You can experience this exhilarating activity along the Kelani River in the area known as Kitulgala set amidst stunning natural beauty. Some excursions will additionally include jungle trekking and visiting hidden rock pools too.

The hill country

There are plenty of thrilling adventures in the hill country of Sri Lanka. Here, you can go mountain biking and hiking amidst picturesque surroundings and mist-shrouded mountains such as the Knuckles Mountain Range. Other destinations like Nuwara Eliya and Ella are popular too and feature tea plantations to explore as well.

Deep-sea fishing

A deep-sea fishing excursion would be another exciting adventure experience that you could enjoy in Sri Lanka. Your fishing trip will take you into the expanses of the Indian Ocean where you could cast for the likes of tuna, snappers, barracuda, groupers, wahoo and so on; this is sure to be an absorbing escapade worth trying!