Author: Catalina Forbes

The ending of Adam’s Peak Pilgrimage season

Adams Peak is a rock formation near the summit, which in Buddhist tradition is held to be the footprint of the Buddha, in Hindu tradition that of Shiva and in Islamic and Christian tradition that of Adam, or that of St. Thomas. In Islamic tradition it is the site where Adam fell to earth and where his footprint can be found. At the top of Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, there is a sacred footprint in which the island’s main faiths – Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims – each believe it is the footprint of Buddha, Shiva, and Adam, respectively. It is most atmospheric to hike Adam’s Peak during the pilgrimage season (December to May) as the main path is illuminated and teashops stay open throughout the night. Sri Lanka Holiday Travel is a very efficient and effective tour company that arranges many tours for those planning Sri Lanka holidays, especially to destinations such as Adams Peak. They have many years of professional experience in organizing tours, and has a great amount expertise.

The pilgrimage season runs from Unduwap poya (December) to Wesak poya Festival (May), reaching its peak mid-season at Medin poya. At this time, there is a constant stream of pilgrims & the top can get very crowded. The busiest period is during January to February. The road to Adam’s peak takes you past some spectacular waterfalls & winds through the heart of some of the finest tea-growing country in the world. Most people do the walk by moonlight, setting off from Dalhousie around 0300, & arriving in time to see the dawn when the “Shadow of the peak” takes place. Alternatively, you could climb up the previous evening & sleep on top of the mountain, though it is very cold up here until well after sunrise so it is essential to take warm clothing & sleeping bags. Either way, it is worth ordering breakfast in advance at the Green House or Yellow House.

 

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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White Water Rafting in Sri Lanka- Adrenaline pumping journey

Looking forward to spend a holiday in Sri Lanka? Holidays are much more fun when you visit the banks of the Kelani River. Explore the range of water sports activities it has to offer including white water rafting. The ardent traveller could use the services of a renowned tour provider such as Sri Lanka Holiday Travel when visiting Kitulgala, the main water rafting location in Sri Lanka.

Engage in an adrenaline pumping journey along the Kelani River, which is part of the famous Bridge on the River Kwai fame. Paddle through the calm waters and the lush greenery of the Virgin’s Breast and move along to the Killer Fall with strong rapids and a 90 degree drop. The gushing water and the ambience is an experience you wouldn’t want to forget. The grade three rapids of the Kelani River are ideal for beginners as well as intermediate rafters alike. Every year many tourists visit Kitulgala with family & friends to spend a day white water rafting which could lasts from 1 ½ hours to 3 hours depending on the requirements of the visitor. Although Kitulgala is considered as the main spot to go rafting in Sri Lanka, travellers could also explore the Sitawaka River off Avissawella which requires skills of higher degree as the rapids in the river are of grade 3 and 4.

 

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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Wildlife in Bundala National Park: serenity in the wild

On reaching Bundala National Park you will feel a sense calm as the park is less frequented, yet is a treasure trove of amazing wildlife. Located in the Hambantota district, the park is a four to five hour drive from Sri Lanka’s capital. The most rewarding experience for those who love nature is lodging that fuses well with its surroundings. Saraii Village, Sri Lanka compliments the nature amidst which it is constructed. Your search for an Eco Lodge, Sri Lanka would be a success only if you choose your accommodation in this uniquely designed hotel. Enjoy the rustic vibe of the hotel, by choosing to stay either in a tree house or a mud chalet. It is the ideal place to breathe in wildlife and commence your journey to Bundala National Park.

Among the dry scrublands and lagoons, a multitude of animals find their home. However Bundala National Park is internationally recognized as a wintering ground for migratory water birds. Flocks of greater flamingos migrate to the park. These leggy beauties add splotches of blush pink to the landscape. The black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, Asian openbill and Grey heron are also among the hundred species of water birds that grace the park with their seasonal presence. In addition, the park is known to harbor approximately 197 species of birds. It is without doubt an earthly heaven for birdwatchers.

Roaming the park with grace is a handful of Asian elephants. Many other mammals stealthily disappear beneath the shrubbery. Leopards are rarely spotted yet are reportedly a notable presence in the park. The toque macaque, the common langur, the fishing cat and the rusty-spotted cat add to the beautiful collage of Bundala National Park.

Be on your guard as Mugger crocodiles and estuarine crocodiles bask in the sun with eager eyes on the park’s visitors. It is evident that the wildlife in Bundala National Park collectively contributes towards a tranquil exploration of the wild.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world. Google+

Knuckles Mountain Range

Home to seven states, the region of South Asia boasts of a number of iconic mountain ranges with the most important one being the Himalayans. This mountain range along with the Karakorum and Hindu Kush range separate the subcontinent from the rest of Asia. The Himalayan mountain range, whilst being the highest in the world, is also home to the tallest mountain in the world: the Everest, while Hindu Kush mountain range enjoys the distinction of being the second highest. For those visiting the South Asian state of Sri Lanka, the highest mountain range is the Knuckles and can be visited from Kandy. While varying accommodation options are available in the hill country, for those seeking luxury in the Central Highlands, Earls Regent Kandy certainly delivers.

While the mountain range covers a couple of districts, it derives its name from the manner in which the peaks and valleys appear to resemble a closed fist. As the Knuckles range forms part of the Kandy district, it can be easily access by staying at a hotel Kandy. It is a location that is immensely rich in bio diversity in Sri Lanka and, in recent times, has become well known for eco tourism. As a result, many tourists and locals seek to trek across the range and camp in the valleys.

Also known as the ‘Dumbara Kanduwetiya’ meaning the Misty Hills, the mountain range has featured in Sri Lankan history from prehistoric times. Certain archaeologists claim the existence of remains of a Yaksha settlement, and the area was also called the ‘Gini Divaina’ during such a time.

At present, a number of hiking trails have been cleared by officials and tourists can visit Mini World’s End which provides an excellent and panoramic view of the misty mountains and plummeting valleys surrounding Knuckles, while other trails such as Pitawala Pathena Trail, the Nitre Cave and Ash Cave Trails and many others traverse through tea plantations, farms, villages and even rubber estates.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world. Google+

Sheikh Khalifa Park in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a bustling, modern city with broad boulevards, gleaming skyscrapers, high-rise apartment buildings and busy shopping malls. This wealthy city still has its fascinating culture and provides fantastic opportunities for residents and tourists alike. Abu Dhabi is surrounded by several major islands with multi-billion dollar resorts, playgrounds for wealthy locals and holiday makers sampling a bit of the 5-star lifestyle that the Emirates have become famous for. The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is among the best of the luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi. This luxury Resort is located in the legendary Rub’Al Khali, the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara embraces the epic adventures of this evocative landscape by providing a luxury oasis for discerning traveler. This resort offers many activities such as camel trekking, fat biking and the best Abu Dhabi Desert Tour for their guests.

The Sheikh Khalifa Park in Abu Dhabi is the best place in Abu Dhabi for relaxation, fun and entertainment. Located in Al Matar, behind the old airport of Abu Dhabi, this major landmark is one of the city’s larger parks. The design derived from Islamic and Arabic architecture park has lot on offer to all types of visitors. Visually, the park boasts of a beautifully landscaped grand avenue, fountains, lakes and waterfalls. The park offers an exciting range of things to do for children including a time tunnel ride, miniature railway, women & children’s garden and Murjan Splash Park. Tours can be carried out via train or by foot, whichever is more convenient. Khalifa Park was a gift for the people of Abu Dhabi from UAE ruler Sheikh Khalifa. The Khalifa Park is a park for all people to visit and enjoy.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world. Google+

Mossman Gorge Port Douglas

Tucked away in Daintree Rainforest , a declared world heritage site is Mossman Gorge. Considered as the oldest , but continuously surviving rain forest on the planet. Five minutes away from one of Queensland’s most hospitable towns , Mossom , is where one could find themselves in the midst of this lush tropical treasure.

Port Douglas is not too far from Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reefs. Surrounded by tropical forests and coral reefs this is the only place where two listed world heritage sites exist. The convenient location to both these tourist attraction makes it a popular tourist destination. Among the Port Douglas Resorts, a noteworthy choice among tourist would be Oaks Lagoons, which consists of both deluxe hotel style accommodation as well as apartment style accommodation to suit one’s needs. The name Oaks lagoons come from te six lagoon style pools surrounding the resort.

Mossman Gorge situated in the southern part of the Daintree forest which has one of the most complex eco systems at present. The river Mossom flows through this scenic site and the clear water pools are perfect for a refreshing dip. The native “kuku Yalanji ” people are warm and welcoming to tourist and have become part and parcel of the whole experience.

Some of the activities one can engage in are the dream time walks , swimming, self guided tours among many others without causing any destruction to this 130 million year worthy treasure. The Mossman Gorge Center strives to preserve this pristine blessing. There is an indigenous art gallery and a retail center, a cafe and a retail center within its premises.

Other attractions around the forest area would be driving up to the Barrier Reef , where one can engage in snorkeling, diving and enjoy the great beaches that Queensland has to offer.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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