Category: Land

Mekong River Cruise experience

In the earlier days, civilisations were born around massive rivers, which also assisted in establishing relevant cultures. Mekong River is no exception. One can learn about the fascinating cultural aspects of an ancient civilisation when embarking on a luxury Mekong River cruise.

Image credit- Mekong Kingdoms

History of Mekong River

The earliest settlement date back to 2100 BC, the Khmer culture of Funan. Khmer empire Angkor was the last greatest Indianised state in the area. Mekong River is regarded as the cornerstone of the economic growth and prosperity of South East Asia.

Cruising Area

The spectacular Mekong Delta is spread over an area of approximately 15,000 square miles, which boasts of lush green paddy fields, fruit orchards, fish farms, and thriving ecosystems. Mekong Delta contributes to more than half of Vietnam’s rice production; hence, it’s also called the “rice bowl” of the country.

Cruising Experience

A Mekong River cruise would let travellers come across new cultures, thus being able to perceive life from a different perspective. From ancient temples and serene villages to incredible scenery and wildlife along the way, a cruise along this mighty river will offer an unparalleled experience.

Overnight Mekong Cruises

One can embark on a unique and scintillating night-time adventure on the Mekong River with cruise companies such as Mekong Kingdoms. A night-time cruise along this river would reveal a land of spellbinding beauty.

Botswana Wildlife Highlights

When it comes to experiencing African wildlife, few places in the continent can beat the fantastic opportunities Botswana offers. From sprawling deserts to lush swamplands, there’s an astounding degree of biodiversity to go around here.

The Okavango Delta

Most Botswana resorts – for example, the Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino – will make mention of how you can see amazing varieties of wildlife in the region. The absolute best location for this is undoubtedly the Okavango Delta. Surrounded by the dry expanse of the Kalahari Desert, the delta serves as an oasis for all manner of species – from wading birds to colossal hippos.

The Kalahari

The desert that surrounds the Okavango is by no means devoid of life either – quite the opposite in fact. The Kalahari contains some of the world’s most recognizable animal species. This included the African elephant and the iconic African lin.

Hp.Baumeler, Säbelantilope Namibia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Lake Ngami

Lake Ngami is full of spectacular wildlife and some breath-taking views. The lake is formed by the overflowing waters of the Okavango and provides a haven for many species. Notable sighting includes wading birds like marabou storks and predators like the Nile crocodile.

Tsodilo Hills

The Tsodilo Hills is an old geological formation that’s over 800 million years old! There are caves here that are full of ancient paintings that depict the region’s wildlife – from scavenging hyenas to roving herds of buffalo.

A Day at Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya

It is said that the name ‘Sithulpawwa’ has been derived from the word ‘Chiththala Pabbatha,’ meaning ‘the hill of the quiet mind,’ which accurately describes its ambience. Located close to many a Yala hotel the likes of Cinnamon Wild Yala, this temple complex is believed to have been built by King Kawanthissa during the 2nd century B. C.

Getting There

If you’re travelling from Tissamaharama, you can visit the Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya via Kirinda – Sithulpawwa Road in less than an hour. Upon arrival, you may be approached by several wild boars who frequent the area, who are completely harmless if you aren’t trying to interact with them. The premises also carries notices asking visitors to refrain from feeding these animals.

Main Stupa

Overlooking a large pond is a mountainous area, over which you need to ascend to approach the main stupa area. If you go to the left just before entering the main stupa, you will be greeted by the breathtaking bird’s eye vistas of the entire region. The main stupa has been built by flattening the top of this rocky mountain.

Be Respectful

You may need to wear light-coloured clothing that should cover from your shoulders up to your ankles when entering this sacred place in Sri Lanka.

Nearby Attractions

Apart from this main stupa, you can also hike towards the Small Sithulpawwa at this place. You will pass the scenic South Tissa Lake on your way to this place, which contains attractions such as stone umbrella, twin ponds, Buddha statues, and another stupa upon its windy summit.

 

Dambulla in One Day

Located close to many Sigiriya hotels the likes of Aliya Resort& Spa, Dambulla is a significant city of the Central Province in Sri Lanka. Due to its central location, Dambulla is also used as a major vegetable distribution point in the country.

Visit Dambulla Cave Temple – Morning

Dambulla Cave Temple or the Golden Temple of Dambulla is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. It is one of the mostextensive and best-preserved cave complexes of the country.

Explore Ibbankatuwa Prehistoric Burial Site – Afternoon

Within a three-kilometre radius of the Dambulla Cave Temple lies an ancient burial site of the country called the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs. Many ancient tools and goods along with cremated remains have been found during excavations.

Hike the Rose Quartz Mountain Range – Evening

Not many know that there is a Rose Quartz Mountain Range in Sri Lanka, which is the largest of its kind in Asia. At the very top of this mountain, one may come across a gleaming white statue of Lord Buddha. The legends say that Emperor Shah Jahan used rose quartz from this place to build his masterpiece, the iconic Taj Mahal.

Relax in NamalUyana – Late Evening

Spread over 260 acres of land is a forest of Ironwood trees in Dambulla. It also houses the Rose Quartz Mountain Range and contributes to an ecosystem of various birds and mammals.

 

 

Rock Climbing Adventure in Sri Lanka

There are plenty of great adventures to be had here in Sri Lanka – this includes the exciting and exhilarating sport of rock climbing! There are plenty of places to choose from in Sri Lanka as well, so here’s a quick look at some of the rock climbing adventures to be had here.

Why Go Rock Climbing

If you’re a bit hesitant about getting involved in rock climbing – don’t be! It is one of the most fun and exciting sports you can try out when you’re on vacation. It’ll be a test of your physical and mental strength – it will also help develop your endurance, agility, and balance.

Why Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a particularly good choice to go rock climbing in. The tropical landscapes coupled with excellent rock formations make for a great combination. There are options for all levels of experience as well – from rookies to seasoned veterans.

The Best Places

If you’re looking to conquer a mountain, you can’t go wrong with the Knuckles Mountain Range. Conversely, you might prefer to scale a single rock formation. If so, you might want to consider a region like Dambulla – there’s plenty of climbing ops to be had here. There’s also quite a lot of fantastic Dambulla hotels to choose from as well. This means you can kick your feet up and relax – perhaps at resorts like The Paradise Resort & Spa – and recover from the day’s excursions.

Rappelling and Abseiling

If you really want to get your adrenaline pumping, you might want to try your hand at abseiling here in Sri Lanka. It can be truly exhilarating to descend along massive waterfalls at high speeds. And don’t worry – with the right equipment and personnel in place, it’s perfectly safe!

Best Beaches in West Coast of Sri Lanka

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean sure has some amazing beaches that lure tourists every year. The coastal belt of Sri Lanka is something that you must explore. Here are a few beaches that are not too far from Colombo for starters.

 

Negombo
This is a coastal city that is just 37 km away from Colombo which is about 1.5 hours travel time on the highway. Negombo is popular for beautiful beaches that are surfer friendly and safe for almost any water sport.

Mount Lavinia
This is one of the most residential zones in Colombo, especially for the middle class. This place has one of the most scenic beaches where the middle class often visit in the evenings for a jog or to walk their pets.

Beruwela
This is a beach city that is popular for hotels.Beruwela offers some of the best luxury resorts such as The Eden Resort & Spa for a nice stay. The beaches here are great too but the waters can sometimes be too rough so look out for the red flag.

Induruwa
Unlike the rest of the beaches, this isn’t a crowded one. Instead, the ambience is of that of a calm village where you can just relax.

A Guide to Wildlife in Sri Lanka

 

If you are looking for a “wild” holiday which is more about wildlife encounters than nightlife fun, then Sri Lanka is an ideal destination! Here’s a glimpse into the many species you may come across.

Mammals
Sri Lanka has over 100 mammal species including the endemic leopard and elephant. Leopards can be spotted at the Yala National Park, while elephants can be seen at Minneriya National Park near Habarana; hotel options in the area such as Cinnamon Lodge Habarana offer excursions to see “The Gathering” of hundreds of elephants around July. The sloth bear, sambar deer, toque macaque and European otter are some of the other local mammals.

Birds
Over 500 species of birds have been recorded in Sri Lanka which encompasses endemic (like the Sri Lankanjunglefowl and Sri Lanka spurfowl) and migratory (like the Pacific golden plover and greater flamingo) species.The Sinharaja Forest Reserve andBundala National Park are two bird watching hotspots.

Reptiles
There are plenty of reptile species in the island which include a great many snakes such as the sand boa, green vine snake andIndian cobra. Also grouped amongst reptiles are the mugger and saltwater crocodiles as well as five sea turtle species like olive ridley, hawksbill and green turtles.

Marine Species
Out at sea, Sri Lanka is blessed with more diversity and one will find over 900 marine fish species; these include reef fish as well as larger varieties like marlin and sailfish. The country also offers one a chance to spot marine mammals from blue and sperm whales to spinner and bottlenose dolphins.\

 

 

 

 

 

Adventurous guide to Oman

While most travel aficionados might not think of Oman as a great vacation destination, it is in fact full attraction see and experiences to be had. In particular, if you’re a thrill-seeker, the region has a number of great options for you to choose from.

Desert Camping

A massive portion of Oman’s land actually belongs to the Great Oman Desert. This wilderness of heat and sand covers an area of over 64,000 square kilometres, and it’s the perfect destination for an overnight camping trip. Spread across this vast sea of sand are several camping sots for you to choose from, so pick one and get this adventure started.

Dolphin Watching

If you prefer some fun out on the open waves catching sight of some fascinating marine mammals, consider a dolphin watching tour off the coast of Oman. Certain Oman hotels – say, for example, the Al Falaj Hotel – will most likely recommend this activity on their itinerary, so don’t miss out!

Taking a Hike

If you prefer a bit of quiet seclusion and some alone time with nature, a hike up the Jabal Akhdar Mountains will offer the best mix of excitement and tranquillity. If you’re into rock climbing, some of the cliffs face present out here will surely get your blood pumping.

Sinkhole Diving

Many stories try to explain the origins of the mysterious pool that lies right next to the main highway near Wadi Shab– some even state it was caused by an ancient meteorite. Whatever the case may be, put on a pair of shorts and dive right in to escape the searing midday heat!

Doha as a Tourist Destination

Doha – the capital city of Qatar is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf. This rising city attracts many tourists across the globe paying tribute to its spectacular architecture and one of a kind cultural heritage. Here are a few of the must-visit attractions if you are visiting Doha as a tourist.

 

The Museum of Islamic Art
Located closeby to many hotels in Doha Qatar, such as the popular Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli, the Museum of Islamic Art is an architectural gem of this city. Here you will find a collection of Islamic paintings that were collected from three continents over 1400 years!

The Doha Corniche
No one can visit Doha as a tourist and leave without visiting the ever-famous Doha Corniche! The Doha Corniche is a waterfront promenade that reshaped the country’s coastline in the 1970s and 1980s. It is an ideal place to visit for a leisurely stroll with the family.

Explore Souq Waqif
Considered a one-stop-shop for all things shopping and dining – the Souq Waqif is also one of Doha’s top attractions to visit as a tourist. Explore the alleys filled with many Arabian delights such as spices, perfumes, and even embroidered items for you to take back home as souvenirs!

The Pearl
Known as the first land in Qatar to be available for freehold ownership for foreign nationals, the Pearl is an offshore artificial island in Doha’s West Bay lagoon area. There are many high-end retail shops in this area that you could engage in some luxury shopping!

 

Why You Should Visit Kandy

Once the royal seat of the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a city perched on a plateau at the top of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. There are many reasons as to why you should be visiting Kandy. Here are our top 4.

It’s Perfect for Nature Lovers
The small city is surrounded by emerald mountains and plenty of forest land, estates and the famed Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Everywhere you look, even out of the balcony of the best hotel in Kandy there is plenty of nature to adore.

It’s Home to Cultural Treasures
Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important Buddhist landmark site as the resting place of the tooth relic of Buddha which is housed in the Temple of the Tooth at the royal palace in the city centre. It’s a quick drive from mountainside hotels like Hotel Topaz.

It’s a Classic Movie Location
Kandy was famously the location for movies such as Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Cheng Gong, The Second Jungle Book: Mowgli and Baloo and Thai Flower among others.

It’s Where You Can Find a Good Cuppa
You can also find plenty of tea estates with cafés that will serve you the most delicious cup of steaming hot Ceylon Black tea.