Attractions - The Adventure Travel Site

The Underrated Safari Experiences in Sri Lanka

Famed for its tropical beaches and alluring sunsets, Sri Lanka may not appear to be the bearer of forests and jungles of untamed wildlife. However, the country’s reputation as a tropical vacation hub overshadows its ability to provide some of the best-known safaris.

1024px-Minneriya_National_Park,_elephants_gathering — Walter Gehr, Minneriya National Park, elephants gathering, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Road to a Minneriya Safari

A 17-minute ride is all it takes to reach the Minneriya National Park from hotels like Aliya Resort and Spa. The park is known to be one of the best places on the island to witness the largest elephant gatherings that occur during the months of June to September. Most accommodations in the area offer safari packages to tourists which are inclusive of well-trained drivers to educate them along the way, and it is also about a 20-30 minutes distance from most other Sigiriya hotels in the area.

A Jungle Exploit

While visitors can witness herds of elephants freely roaming out and about, they are not the only wildlife that can be spotted at the Minneriya National Park. The sanctuary is home to a wide array of species ranging from eagles, monkeys and peacocks that can be seen in numbers. The park shelters 24 species of mammals, 9 species of amphibians, 25 species of reptiles, 160 species of birds, 75 species of butterflies and 26 species of fish.

Travelling with Young Ones

A safari at the Minneriya National Park is not one that is catered only for adults but is considered a safe experience for children as well. While older children are likely to appreciate wildlife and the knowledge of their lifestyles, younger ones are more drawn to the thrill of the jeep ride and climbing up the rocks in the park

The Overall Experience

Many travellers have shared positive testimonies of their fabulous experiences at the Minneriya National Park, commenting on the expertise of the drivers and guides that accompany them throughout the journey. This family-friendly safari is certain to be one of education as well as a real-life adventure for adults and children alike.

Kingdom of Kandy

Located amidst the green swathes of Sri Lanka’s upcountry, Kandy was once the capital of Sri Lanka. Its proud history dictates that it was the only region in Sri Lanka that remained independent for the longest time period possible, under the foreign powers. All over the city are historical, cultural, religious, and natural attractions.

1024px-Kandy_War_Cemetery — AntanO, Kandy War Cemetery, CC BY-SA 4.0

Temple of the Tooth Relic

This has to be the single most important religious site to Sri Lankan Buddhists. The temple houses Buddha’s tooth relic inside a pagoda-shaped casing, made of gold and adorned with jewellery. Sri Lankans believe that this tooth relic has the power to bring about rains to nourish the Sri Lankan soil. The temple is part of a palace complex.

Kandy Lake

Looking for a respite from the mid-day sun? Take a stroll around Kandy Lake. Located right in front of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake is part of the temple complex. The lake offers several hiking trails.

Royal Botanical Gardens

The gardens are called the Royal Botanical Gardens as it was once reserved for royals, but now it’s open to everyone! This is one of the must-visit attractions in Kandy. Located one hour and eighteen minutes from Hunas Falls Hotel Kandy, the garden nurtures a wide variety of plant species. The main attraction, however, is the palm-fringed walkway that often seems to grace Instagram.

Commonwealth War Cemetery

There are several commonwealth war cemeteries, but the one found in Kandy is one of the most important historical sites. The cemetery is the resting place of soldiers who fought during the Second World War. Despite having a gloomy historical element, the cemetery features a calm and beautiful atmosphere. You can get here from almost any hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka in around an hour.

Conclusion

The list of Kandy attractions is endless. The city offers plenty of things to do and see, to keep you sufficiently occupied for more than a week. To make the most of your time here, take your time and plan your itinerary, and don’t forget to book your accommodation well in advance!

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.

Everything you need to know about snorkelling in the Maldives

If you are an adventurer travelling to the Maldives all ready and set to explore what lies beneath these waters, a brief guide might just help you out! Here are a few things to know before your snorkelling trip to the Maldives.

When to Snorkel in the Maldives

The best thing about snorkelling or scuba diving in Maldives is that the weather is wonderful all year long. However, there are a few months where the water is clearer than it is the rest of the year. January through April is the best time for your underwater adventure.

Best Snorkelling Environments

Most resorts in Maldives, the likes of Reethi Faru Resort have great snorkelling opportunities. This is either because of the house reef located close to the island or the lagoon and house reef within the accessible range surrounding the island.

What to Expect

There is just so much to see when it comes to the underwater kingdom. Colourful corals, black-tipped reef sharks, morays and different kinds of turtles too. So, be prepared to uncover a true treasure of nature.

Other tips for snorkelling in the Maldives

Always be vigilant about the weather and make sure it’s a clear sunny day before your set out to the water. Bringing your own gear would be best, however, some resorts also provide snorkel equipment on rent. Yet another important thing to keep in mind would be to use plenty of sunscreen and make sure that your product is eco-friendly.

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.

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.

Things to Do in Mary Valley, Sunshine Coast

The appealing Mary Valley in the Sunshine Coast hinterland will be a delightful locality for visitors who appreciate nature and the countryside. There can hardly be a better place for a relaxed leisure trip with family or friends.

Traverse Along Mary Valley Scenic Drive

You will find that the Mary Valley Scenic Drive would be an excellent way to commence your exploration of this picturesque area. As you make your way along this drive, you will notice many appealing sights such as cattle grazing, pineapple plantations, rainforests, macadamia farms, undulating hills and so on; don’t forget to take your camera!

Enjoy Fig Tree Walk

Another pleasant experience in the locality would be strolling down the Fig Tree Walk. As you make your way down this walk, you will notice sights such as a splendid Moreton Bay fig tree and creatures like skinks and Wompoo pigeons as well as other birds. One of the Caloundra resorts to consider from which you could plan an excursion to Fig Tree walk would be Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort.

Visit the Dagun Growers Market

Visitors will find that the Dagun Growers Market which is held on Saturday afternoons would be a wonderful place for the food lover. Here, you will encounter an array of stalls offering locally grown organic foodstuffs, handmade items and freshly prepared treats. You can buy fruits and vegetables and enjoy pizza and wine as well.

Explore the Amamoor State Forest

Nature and wildlife lovers will be enthralled at the Amamoor State Forest which is considered a paradise for bird lovers. A highlight here would be the Platypus Walk where you may have the opportunity to spot these shy creatures. You may also choose to experience the pleasant Rainforest Walk that’s equally captivating.

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.

Phuket Experiences and Expeditions to Cherish

A vacation in Phuket is not just a walk by the beach. The city offers a bundle of exciting activities to tourists that are not only limited to the tropics of the island. Phuket is historically, naturally and artistically rich in its offerings to society, and a trip to this astonishing city should not miss these experiences.

Полина Славянская, Музей Thai Hua, CC BY 3.0

A History Like No Other

A walk down memory lane to Phuket’s incredible history will be an astounding experience. While Thailand had the fortune of being exempted from European colonisation, the country was a hub to begin new lives for many Portuguese, Dutch, British and French immigrants. This resulted in Thai culture, cuisine and architecture being infused into European forms, creating the perfect fusion of Western and Southeast Asian practices.

Visits to The Museum

Located less than an hour away from Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, the Thai Hua Museum is a Sino-Portuguese building that houses stories from the past of Phuket. The exhibitions and documentary screenings at the museum will give you an insight into the Phuket-China connection spanning back to the days of the 13th century. Most tourists staying at Phuket resorts pick the Thai Hua Museum as their first stop out of many sites to explore and admire.

Dive Into A World of Art

The dynamics and vibrant colours of contemporary brushstrokes define modern art in Thailand. Phuket is a shelter for both local and global art for those who appreciate it. Make sure to make pit stops at galleries like Patong Inn Art, The Phuket Gallery, Kampon Art Gallery and most importantly at the Wua Art Gallery, which is owned by local artist, Mr Zen.

A Wildlife Expedition

A sanctuary to over 10% of the fauna of the world, Thailand hosts more than 285 mammal species in their natural habitats. Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Khao Sok National Park, Sirinat National Park and Similan Islands National Park are undoubtedly some of the top places to visit to get a glimpse of the terrestrial and aquatic animal lives of the country.