Pran Buri Forest Park is a peaceful retreat just outside Hua Hin, offering stunning mangrove forests and scenic coastal views. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet walk, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying nature.
The park’s wooden boardwalk takes you through dense mangroves, where you can spot crabs, birds, and even monitor lizards. Exploring this serene trail is one of the best things to do in Hua Hin if you love nature and photography.
A Quiet Beach by the Forest
Beyond the mangroves, the park opens up to a peaceful beach with soft sand and clear waters. Unlike Hua Hin’s busier beaches, this spot remains quiet, making it ideal for a relaxing seaside escape.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Pran Buri Forest Park is home to a variety of birds, butterflies, and small animals. Early mornings are the best time to visit, as you’ll hear birds singing and see the golden light filtering through the trees. After your adventure, unwind at a property such as Anantara Hua Hin Resort, a luxurious retreat near the coast.
Easy Access and Facilities
Located about 30 minutes from Hua Hin, the park is easy to reach by car or motorbike. It has a visitor centre, picnic areas, and even boat tours through the mangroves, making it a great day trip for nature lovers.
Langkawi isn’t just about pristine beaches and tropical sunsets—it’s a haven for adventure seekers. Whether you’re craving adrenaline-pumping thrills or want to explore the island’s hidden natural beauty, Langkawi delivers. Here are five exciting activities that will get your heart racing:
For a breathtaking aerial view of Langkawi, hop onto the SkyCab cable car and ascend to the peak of Gunung Mat Cincang. The SkyBridge offers an exhilarating walk on a suspended bridge that extends over the rainforest canopy, offering panoramic views of the island’s landscape and beyond.
Jungle Trekking and Waterfalls
Langkawi’s jungle treks are perfect for nature lovers. Take a guided hike through the lush rainforest to explore hidden waterfalls like Telaga Tujuh, known for its seven cascading waterfalls. The trek offers a mix of adrenaline and nature’s serenity.
Watersports Adventure
From jet skiing to parasailing, Langkawi’s beaches offer the ultimate playground for water sports. Head to Pantai Cenang for a range of thrilling options like wakeboarding or windsurfing, or try a more relaxed experience like kayaking along the calm waters.
Island Hopping Tour
Hop on a boat for an island-hopping adventure around Langkawi’s stunning archipelago. Visit the famous Lake of the Pregnant Maiden, known for its unique shape and crystal-clear waters.
Stay at Homely Resort
To recharge after a day of adventure, you can consider staying at one of the top resorts in Langkawi. You can head to Temple Tree Resort Langkawi, which offers the perfect mix of relaxation and proximity to Langkawi’s adventure-filled hotspots.
As the sun sets over Dubai the skies above it turn into a dazzling blanket of stars, a sight so spectacular it seems like you looking right into heaven. Here are some of the best stargazing locales in and around Dubai, from where you can witness this phenomenal show of glittering light after dark.
Al Thuraya Astronomy Center
Located just a half-hour drive from the city, this Astrology Centre has everything you need to get a closer look at the dazzling night sky. It features a planetarium, an observatory and an astro-cinema, allowing you to learn more about the starry world beyond your reach.
Al Qudra Lakes
This is one of the most popular spots in Dubai among stargazers located about an hour from hotels likeParamount Hotel Midtown. On a clear night, the lakes become ethereal mirrors, reflecting the celestial display above, creating a double dose of starry magic for anyone who visits.
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
This reserve isn’t just known for its daytime adventures. The 87-square-mile stretch is a prime spot for stargazing, with plenty of eco-friendly tours, night safaris and other immersive experiences that elevate your viewing of the starry skies near thebest hotels in downtown, Dubai.
The town of Hatta makes for another great stargazing locale due to its remoteness which only adds to the experience. If you’re up for an adventure you can head to the Hatta Dam and camp the night there, where you can fall asleep to the dazzling array of lights in the sky.
When discussing tropical destinations, the focus is always on beaches and the ocean, but Sri Lanka is different. It’s a tropical destination well known for culture, history, and gardens, as much as for beaches. Kandy is where you’ll find this diversity. It’s the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, inviting you to enjoy a holiday amidst mountains. Visit temples, stroll through gardens, and unwind with a delicious cup of Ceylon tea. Here’s what to see and do in Kandy.
The Temple of the Tooth Relic is one of the most important religious sites for Buddhists on the island. It houses a tooth relic that belongs to Buddha, so you can imagine how revered and loved the temple is. If you decide to visit, get there in time for the evening ceremony.
The Royal Botanic Gardens
Located just outside Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens promises a peaceful escape among colourful blooms. Take a walk through exotic plants and vibrant flowers along well-kept pathways, enjoying invigorating fresh air.
You can find several accommodations close to the garden too. If you’re interested in a luxury hotel in Kandy, you will findKings Pavilion Kandy just 15 minutes away from the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Udawatta Kele
Located in the heart of Kandy, Udawatta Kele is a forest reserve. With trails running through the thick bushes, where wildlife thrives, the forest is visited by both locals and foreigners for hiking and birdwatching.
Ceylon Tea Museum
A tea lover, are you? You and most Sri Lankans! To learn about Sri Lanka’s tea industry, visit the Ceylon Tea Museum. Take your time touring the museum, and you can conclude your visit with a delicious cup of Ceylon tea.
Dubai is no stranger to exciting attractions and activities, and skydiving is no exception. Whether you’re plunging over iconic landmarks or trying indoor options, skydiving in Dubai is a must for the adventurous.
When To Visit
For most outdoor activities in the desert climate, book your stay at one of the best hotel suites in Dubai for any time between December and March. The cooler weather and clearer skies are a better option for skydiving than the summer months, when temperatures can become scorching.
Age Guidelines & Restrictions
Participants must be over the age of 18, with no serious chronic health issues like epilepsy and heart conditions. Most providers require a health check and clearance, especially for older participants. Additionally, some places may have weight restrictions.
What To Bring & What To Wear
Don’t forget to bring a valid ID or passport, as well as a printed-out copy of your ticket for the experience from your provider. In terms of wardrobe, be sure to wear athletic clothing, with long sleeves, t-shirts, or long-legged pants to protect your skin from the gear. Sneakers are also ideal, as open-toed shoes and sandals are not allowed.
Skydive Over Palm Jumeirah
Arguably the most well-known skydiving experience in Dubai, jump from 13,000 feet and enjoy spectacular aerial views. Soar over Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Marina, and the Arabian Gulf, with Skydive Dubai, located a short distance from Oaks Liwa Heights.
Not ready for the outdoors? Try iFly Dubai for an indoor skydiving experience. Beyond the traditional tandem experience, this wind tunnel simulation replicates the sensation of freefall, making it ideal for beginners or families with kids.
Maybe it was the allure of the beaches and the ocean that compelled you to visit Sri Lanka. After all, Sri Lanka is known as a tropical country extending an invitation for adventurers seeking fun in the water. But there’s another side to this island nation: the upcountry, dotted with mountains and streaked with hiking and trekking trails. Hantana is one of the most beautiful and serene places you will find anywhere, with sprawling mountains shrouded in mist and mild weather that’s the perfect tonic for sun-weary souls.
The best time would be the dry season from December to April when there’s no risk of rainfall and therefore the trails are not slippery. Plus, the dry season brings the most spectacular views, ensured by the clear skies. The monsoon months add a lush vibrancy to the green tracks, but trekking can become a bit challenging.
Accommodations
You can choose from a range of accommodations, including budget, mid-range, and luxury, catering to all budgets and taking into account all preferences. Consider what you want to do during your time in Hantana and ask yourself if you’d like to include some sightseeing in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka that’s close by, in your itinerary, and then pick a place. Those enthusiastic about exploring the fringing destinations as well as trekking in Hantana might want to check outTheva Residency.
Trails
Hantana offers several trekking trails, from easy to advanced.
The Hantana Peak Trail is the most popular; it leads you to the summit and takes about four hours to complete. The Hantana Tea Estate Trail, on the other hand, is a more leisurely trek that leads you through beautiful tea plantations. Meanwhile, there’s a scenic trail that passes by waterfalls within the Hantana range.
Tips
Make sure you’ll be at ease during the trek by wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Don’t forget to bring water or wear sunscreen – even though the climate is mild, you still need sunscreen. Do not litter the trails or disturb the wildlife. Consider joining a guided tour if it’s your first time trekking in Hantana.
Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes, from lush jungles to serene beaches, draw in travellers from around the globe. But with the rise of tourism comes the responsibility to protect its natural beauty. Sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka is flourishing, offering eco-conscious travellers the chance to explore while minimising their environmental footprint. Here are five ways Sri Lanka is leading the charge toward a greener paradise:
Eco-Friendly Lodging and Resorts
More eco-lodges and green hotels are emerging in Sri Lanka, incorporating sustainable building materials, solar energy, and waste-reduction practices. Many resorts, like Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, are setting benchmarks with their CSR and sustainability initiatives, including wastewater management, solar electricity, and local community projects, ensuring tourism gives back to both the environment and the people.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts
Sri Lanka is home to remarkable biodiversity. Sustainable tourism helps support wildlife conservation initiatives, from protecting endangered species like the Sri Lankan leopard to reducing the impact on delicate ecosystems. By supporting ethical safari experiences, visitors contribute to the preservation of the island’s rich fauna while enjoying stays at a nature resort in Sri Lanka.
Promoting Local Communities
Sustainable tourism isn’t just about nature; it’s also about people. Eco-tourism initiatives work hand-in-hand with local communities, providing them with jobs and promoting traditional crafts and food. This economic boost helps preserve local culture and heritage.
Reducing Plastic and Waste
Sri Lanka has introduced eco-conscious policies like banning single-use plastics and promoting biodegradable alternatives. Travellers are encouraged to adopt these practices by bringing reusable water bottles and bags, helping keep Sri Lanka’s beaches and forests pristine.
From cycling tours to electric tuk-tuks, green transportation options are growing. These alternatives help reduce carbon footprints while allowing travellers to experience the scenic beauty of Sri Lanka in a slower, more immersive way.
The Knuckles Mountain Range, a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage site, is an adventurer’s paradise nestled in central Sri Lanka. This rugged mountain range offers much more than just an average hike — it’s a passage through misty peaks, dense forests, and unspoiled wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast, conquering the Knuckles is a must for those seeking both challenge and serenity.
Climb the Iconic Knuckles Five Peaks
The Knuckles Range derives its name from its resemblance to a giant clenched fist, with five peaks forming the “knuckles.” These jagged peaks, often shrouded in mist, offer spectacular views for those willing to scale their heights. Reaching the top is a physical challenge, but the reward is a panoramic view of lush greenery stretching endlessly below.
Biodiversity Hotspot
The Knuckles Range is home to a diverse ecosystem. As you hike, you’ll encounter endemic species like the Knuckles pygmy lizard and rare birds, such as the Sri Lanka whistling thrush. The range’s biodiversity adds an extra element of wonder to the hike, making each step a journey through a living natural museum.
Cultural Encounters on the Trail
Beyond the natural beauty, the Knuckles Range also offers the opportunity to connect with local villages along the trails. Many routes pass through small farming communities where you can learn about traditional Sri Lankan farming techniques and enjoy local hospitality. This cultural immersion adds a rich layer to your hiking experience.
Breathtaking Panoramas
The winding trails offer countless panoramic viewpoints that provide sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Among the most stunning locations to admire the Knuckles from afar is Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa. Perched high in the hills, this eco-luxury boutique hotel in Sri Lanka, offers breathtaking views of the range, allowing you to experience the mountains in all their glory, even when you’re not on the trails.
Discover Hidden Waterfalls
Mini World’s End – Image via Flickr
The Knuckles Range is dotted with cascading waterfalls that remain hidden from the average tourist. As you hike deeper into the heart of the mountains, you’ll stumble upon these serene water spots — perfect for a refreshing dip after a long trek. The sound of water tumbling over rocks provides a soothing backdrop as you soak in the natural beauty.
Cloaked in a warm, tropical climate, and home to a diverse collection of biomes, Sri Lanka is a paradise for wildlife. Birds, in particular, decorate the country’s numerous rainforests and wetland reserves, with endemic birds populating the canopies and migratory species enjoying the seasonal sunshine. Explore some of the best spots around the Southern regions for birdwatching, from Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary to Yala National Park and beyond.
Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
This coastal wetland is a birder’s haven, particularly during migratory seasons. With lagoons, scrub jungles, mangroves and grassy plains, the area is home to some of the most notable aviary species in the country. Keep an eye out for waterbirds like pelicans, herons, and egrets. You might also spot sea eagles, painted storks, and the elusive red-faced malkoha. Experience Galleand the nearby coastal region in a different light, with a visit to this stunning sanctuary.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a pure tropical rainforest brimming with birdlife. Listen for the calls of endemic species like the Sri Lanka blue magpie, or witness the elusive Sri Lankan junglefowl, a symbol of the country’s wildlife. Embark on a solo excursion, or, for the added convenience and a bonus seaside retreat, stay at The Fortress Resort & Spa in Galle for guided half-day tours to the reserve, straight from the hotel.
Yala National Park
One of Sri Lanka’s most prominent wildlife parks, Yala is not only famous for its vast population of leopards, but also offers excellent birding opportunities. A hotspot for raptors and larger birds, spot eagles, vultures, and other awe-inspiring birds soaring high above the plains.
Khao Lak, a beautiful coastal region in Thailand, is known for its serene beaches and lush rainforests, making it an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. With an array of trails winding through national parks, waterfalls, and dense jungle, Khao Lak offers a range of hiking experiences that cater to all fitness levels.
Khao Lak has several popular hiking trails that vary in length, difficulty, and terrain. Before setting out, research which trails suit your fitness level and interests. For beginners, the Lampi Waterfall Trail in Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park is a gentle, family-friendly hike that offers beautiful views of cascading waterfalls.
Choose the Right Time for Your Hike
Timing is crucial when planning a hiking adventure in Khao Lak. The best time to hike is during the cooler, drier months from November to April, when the weather is most favourable. Avoid hiking during the rainy season, as the trails can become slippery and dangerous, and there is a higher chance of encountering leeches or mosquitoes.
Prepare Your Gear and Supplies
Proper gear is essential for a comfortable and safe hiking experience in Khao Lak. Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing to keep cool in the tropical heat and sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip for navigating varied terrain. Pack a small backpack with essentials like a refillable water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit.
Consider Hiring a Local Guide
While many trails in Khao Lak are well-marked, hiring a local guide can enhance your hiking experience by providing insights into the local flora, fauna, and culture. Guides are knowledgeable about the region and can take you to hidden gems, such as lesser-known waterfalls or scenic viewpoints. Apart from tour companies, a Khao Lak resort in Thailand can offer a range of guided hiking experiences, from half-day trips to full-day jungle treks.
Stay Safe and Respect the Environment
Safety should always be a priority when hiking in Khao Lak. Make sure to inform someone of your hiking plans, including your route and expected return time. Always stick to marked trails and avoid wandering into unknown areas, as the jungle can be dense and disorienting.
Plan for Post-Hike Relaxation
After a day of trekking through Khao Lak’s beautiful landscapes, plan for some well-deserved relaxation. Consider booking a stay at one of Khao Lak’s resorts such as Avani+ Khao Lak Resort or beachside accommodations, where you can unwind with a spa treatment or a massage.
