things to do | The Adventure Travel Site

Reasons to add Colombo to your Travel Bucket List – The Gem of the Tropics Awaits

Colombo might just be one of the most underrated gems in South Asia—and it definitely deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. This lively city has a little bit of everything: rich history, mouthwatering food, vibrant street life, and some seriously gorgeous sunsets by the ocean. Colombo is the kind of place that surprises you – in the best way possible.

The Tea Culture

Immerse yourself in the heart of Sri Lanka’s rich tea culture with an experience that goes beyond just sipping a cuppa. Discover the fascinating heritage and traditions behind Ceylon tea, sample an array of distinctive blends, and learn to identify delicate aromas with just your sense of smell.

Delve into the histories of Colonisation

Not far from Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams is Fort, the city’s busy commercial centre where colonial buildings meet modern vibes. It’s the perfect way to experience Colombo’s vibrant energy up close while appreciating the history within. You can also get a real feel for Colombo by diving into its buzzing streets, friendly locals, and mix of cultures that make the city so unique.

Experience the religious variety

In Colombo, things to do include temple hopping. The city is packed with temples and kovils that add colour and character to the city, and a few are definitely worth a stop. The old and new Kathiresan Kovils are especially popular during the vibrant annual chariot festival, while the Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple stands out with its stunning murals and eye-catching details.

Taste the Unique street food

The city of Colombo offers a world of local flavour to dig into during your visit! From fried isso wadey to vegetable rottis and even devilled chick peas. But you simply can’t miss out on kottu, which is chopped flatbread mixed with vegetables, egg and a choice of meat on a heated griddle.

The Ultimate Adventure Guide to Rock Climbing in Krabi – Get Ready to Engage in a Thrilling Endeavour

There is no doubt that Krabi in Thailand is a marvellous place for rock climbing enthusiasts, offering appealing and challenging conditions for this absorbing and exciting leisure activity. Here’s what you need to keep in mind before you go.

The allure of Krabi

Krabi is a wonderful setting for rock climbing, presenting striking limestone cliffs, gleaming turquoise waters and a multitude of climbing routes for enthusiasts with different levels of skill. Both skilled rock climbers and novices would be at home in Krabi. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could engage in this activity is Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort; if you happen to be staying in Ao Nang, things to do can also include other leisure pursuits like visiting the Phi Phi Islands or even learning Muay Thai!

Skills needed

Like in other activities, beginner rock climbers must focus on gradually gaining the skills required in this pursuit. These would include developing grip techniques (using open hand as well as crimp grips to grasp rock edges), understanding good footwork (focusing on precision) and body positioning (so as to minimise arm strain).

When to go

The optimal timeframe for rock climbing in Krabi is the dry season, stretching from November through April; this period is favourable for this activity with dry conditions and calm seas. On the other hand, during the rainy season extending from May through October, climbs are mainly conducted in the mornings, before possible afternoon rain.

Tips

For safety, when learning rock climbing, you should always select a school or tour operator featuring certified guides; you must also always wear a helmet and use reliable gear. Generally, you shouldn’t climb in rainy conditions or following significant alcohol consumption. It’s best not to climb on your own, while you mustn’t forget to take along a reusable water bottle, sunscreen and insect repellent, too.

Exploring Colombo’s Uniqueness: Activities and Adventures You Can’t Miss

With golden beaches and misty hill stations scattered across the country, Sri Lanka’s capital is often overlooked. However, Colombo has so much to offer. With its diverse heritage, burgeoning art scene, and streets brimming with rich culture, the city is more than just a transit destination. Explore the best things to do in Colombo, and discover the identity behind the vibrant city.

Visit the Red & White Mosque – Jami ul Alfar
Located in Pettah, this striking mosque with candy-striped minarets is one of Colombo’s most photographed landmarks. Built in 1909, it reflects Indo-Saracenic architecture and remains a spiritual and architectural icon.

Join a Walking Tour – Slave Island
Explore one of Colombo’s oldest multicultural neighbourhoods, with a guided walking tour through non-profits like the We Are Here Project. Discover colonial-era buildings, hidden shrines, and vibrant murals that capture the soul of this evolving district, juxtaposed against modern marvels like Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka.

Catch a Meaningful Exhibition – Art Galleries
In Colombo, things to do and see in the arts scene are found at every corner. From Saskia Fernando Gallery to the MMCA (seasonal), expect thought-provoking installations and works from leading and emerging Sri Lankan artists.

Explore the Bawa House – Number 11 (June 15th Onwards)

Step into the former residence of legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa. His private home, which reopens to visitors on the 15th of June this year, is a masterpiece of tropical modernism.

Try the Best Mutton Rolls in the City – Hotel Nippon
If you ask any local about this Lankan delicacy, Hotel Nippon is sure to be the centre of the conversation. The historic location’s mutton rolls are crispy, spicy, and deeply nostalgic.

Sample Iconic ‘Isso Wade’ – Galle Face Green
Head to the seafront at sunset and savour isso wade (spicy prawn fritters) or deep-fried crab from street vendors—Colombo’s ultimate street food experience.

Your Guide to Planning a Maldives Diving Adventure

Dive into Paradise

Planning a dive trip to the Maldives? Look forward to exploring stunning coral reefs, colourful marine life, and crystal-clear waters that create a diver’s dream come true. Here are five essential tips to help you make the most of your underwater adventure in the Maldives.

Scuba_Diver — Image by Dr. Ondřej Havelka (cestovatel) via wikimedia commons

Pick the Perfect Season

The Maldives offers year-round diving opportunities, but the best conditions are typically between November and April when visibility is at its peak. During these months, the water is calm, and you’ll have better chances of encountering majestic manta rays, whale sharks, and vibrant reef fish.

Choose a Resort with Diving Facilities

Stay at a resort like Milaidhoo Island Maldives, home to a five-star PADI dive centre. They offer expert-led dive excursions and comprehensive training courses for all levels. This ensures a seamless and professional diving experience while staying at a luxurious resort.

Plan Your Dive Spots in Advance

The Maldives is known for iconic dive sites such as Hanifaru Bay, Maaya Thila, and Banana Reef. Researching these locations in advance allows you to customise your itinerary with both beginner-friendly reefs and thrilling drift dives. When in the Maldives, things to do won’t end with diving—you can also explore vibrant underwater landscapes, discover hidden dive spots, and more!

Pack the Essentials

While many dive centres provide equipment, bringing your mask, fins, and dive computer ensures a comfortable and familiar experience. Don’t forget essentials like reef-safe sunscreen and a wetsuit for comfort during longer dives. When in the Maldives, things to do

Combine Diving with Relaxation

A Maldives dive trip isn’t complete without indulging in the luxurious offerings of its resorts. From overwater villas to rejuvenating spa treatments, make time to relax and soak in the serene beauty of this tropical haven.

Krabi’s Best Nature Adventures: A Paradise for Nature Lovers

Nature lovers heading to Thailand will want to visit Krabi, a province on the country’s west coast for its endless outdoor adventures. Blessed with pristine beaches and unique natural wonders, the town offers plenty of exciting activities that will only strengthen your love for nature.

Krabi_town_1 — kallerna, Krabi town 1, CC BY-SA 3.0

Relax on the Beach

Krabi is abundant in relaxing beaches with clear waters giving you plenty of opportunities for relaxing under the sun. If you’re based in resort hotels near the coastline like Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, you can head to Ao Nang Beach which is perfect for swimming and beachfront dining.

Explore Phi Phi Islands

If you love venturing beyond the shoreline, make your way to Phi Phi Islands on a boat and discover towering rock formations, secret lagoons and vibrant underwater life. Don’t forget to explore Maya Bay known for being featured in the movie ‘The Beach’.

Plunge into Emerald Pool

Another way to relax in the great outdoors is to take a dip in the Emerald Pool which features several therapeutic hot springs. Take in the lush green rainforests that surround the pool as the warm waters rich in minerals soothe your body.

Catch the Sunset on a Cruise

If you’re based in Krabi province’s town of Ao Nang, things to do include enjoying a sunset cruise on the Andaman Sea. There’s no better way to experience the golden colours of the setting sun touch the ocean waters as you enjoy a delicious meal aboard a luxury yacht.

The Best things to do in Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan offers everything from beachside bliss to pulsating parties that make for unforgettable adventures day or night! Here are some of the top things to do on a holiday to this Thai island.

Spend Time at the Beaches

There are some amazing beaches to visit on the island including Haad Rin Beach where the famed Full Moon Parties take place each month. Other well-known coastal hotspots include Tong Nai Pan Noi Beach home to Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas, Mae Haad Beach and Leela Beach.

Image Credit: Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas

Enjoy Water Sports

Those wanting to do more than just laze on the sand in front of their Koh Phangan resort can try a number of water sports; snorkelling is popular as is diving at nearby Sail Rock. Kayaking is a great way to do some exploring, while activities such as wakeboarding and jet skiing offer more speed-induced thrills.

Explore Ang Thong Marine National Park

Koh Phangan is an ideal base from which to head off on excursions to the Ang Thong Marine National Park. Made up of 42 islands, this nature reserve offers lots to experience; explore secluded beaches and jungles, snorkel above pristine coral reefs and kayak amidst stunning backdrops of limestone cliffs.

Visit the Thong Sala Night Market

A “must visit” for foodies, the daily Thong Sala Night Market is one of the best spots to savour relatively cheap local dishes. Come the weekend, the Thong Sala Saturday Night Market is also worth heading to for not only food but to buy crafts, clothes and more.

Exploring the city of Kandy

Kandy, the hill city of Sri Lanka, is known for its religious significance due to the presence of Temple of Tooth. However, there is much more to this city, if you dare to venture off the beaten path.

Udawaththa Kele | Image Credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nyanatusita">Nyanatusita</a>, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Udawattakele_Forest_scene_4.jpg">Udawattakele Forest scene 4</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> — Udawaththa Kele | Image Credit: Nyanatusita, Udawattakele Forest scene 4, CC BY-SA 3.0

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Declared a nature sanctuary in 1938, Udawatta Kele – meaning Udawatta Forest – is not a highly visited destination among the tourists. However, it presents a mystique aura and has multiple treks and trails where one can stroll through and enjoy the lushness that surrounds them.

Trekking

There are many trekking trails around Kandy both historic and scenic. They are definitely worthwhile exploring and travellers should base themselves in a place like Mahaweli Reach Hotel and spare a day or two to enjoy pristine areas not too far from the city.

City’s colonial past

A neo-gothic 19th century Anglican Church, a Victorian fountain, the 19th century Garrison Cemetery near the old palace, the WWI and WWII Commonwealth War Cemetery on Deveni Rajasinge Mw by the Mahaweli River are the remains from the city’s colonial past.

Peradeniya Botanic Garden

In Kandy, things to do are plenty. Devoting a whole morning to visiting the Peradeniya Botanic Garden, one of best such facilities in the region, will not be wasted as there is much to see besides enjoying its beautiful surroundings. Stroll around the picturesque 200-year-old Kandy Lake in the evening and walk along shaded paths in Udawatte Kele, the historic forest reserve overlooking the Temple of the Tooth.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+