Hiking And Trekking | The Adventure Travel Site

A nature lover’s guide to the Malaysian rainforest

Move away from the bustle of the city and its complementing skyscrapers towards areas of this Southeast Asian nation that will take your breath away with the pleasures and pageantry on show.

1024px-Kinabalu_park_HQ — anonymous, Kinabalu park HQ, CC BY-SA 3.0

Trek to Kinabalu Park

Cut through dense thickets while keeping your eyes peeled for sudden movements that are bound to fill your gaze at the picturesque Kinabalu Park. In fact, once you’re done basking in the company of hot springs, various species of ferns and orchids, and the forest canopy, toy with the thought of ascending the summit of Mount Kinabalu which rises to well over 4,000 meters in the air.

Retrace ancient times at Taman Negara, Pahang

A sense of isolation will follow your every step as you set foot within the pristine, prehistoric rainforests that cover Taman Negara, Pahang. With a proud history that dates back some 130 million years, the curious at heart will be met with the prospect of catching fleeting glimpses of the foliage with the aid of a simple, suspended rope bridge that cuts through the heart of the rainforest.

Marvel at the treasure trove which is Gunung Mulu National Park

Characterised by a dark green canopy that watches over every inhabitant that lives and breeds within Gunung Mulu National Park, the said attraction is a shimmering jewel that has won fame as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to one of the world’s largest limestone cave systems, the 53,000 hectares that scatter the Park is a thriving habitat of life and colour. These include 4,000 varieties of fungus, 1,500 species of flowering plants, 281 butterfly species, 262 kinds of birds, 75 mammal species, and a further 50 variants of reptiles.

Have the ride of a lifetime on the Kampar River

If you desire to pair the adrenaline-drenched pastime of whitewater rafting with exploring rainforests, then head straight for Kempar River in Perak. Once done, you can beeline back to the city and reside at Travelodge Bukit Bintang which is a modern hotel in Bukit Bintang KL.

The best time to visit Yala National Park

Yala National Park is renowned for its leopard population & a host of other appealing mammals. However, timing your visit is crucial to your prospects, and provided is a guide to help you plan better.

May to June

This is when you are able to tour and enjoy the wonders of Yala at one’s own pace owing to it being the dry season which in turn, does not see too many tourists around.

July to August

Adventure seekers will stand a far better chance of delighting in animal sightings but would have to deal with increasing crowds as a result of the European summer holidays. Thus, if you’re not a fan of waiting for your turn to catch a glimpse of that elusive leopard or elephant, then it is best to avoid these two months.

September to October

Although the reserve closes its doors to the public come September which extends up until the middle of October, the last two weeks of October are excellent to head out as you are likely to stumble upon varying species of mammals and even crocodiles and peacocks.

November to March

Best Time to visit Yala National Park (2) — Best Time to visit Yala National Park – Photo by Fergus So on Unsplash

Though one will be confronted with the risk of downpours in November, fewer crowds are ably complemented by outstanding sightings that will have you reaching out for your camera at almost every turn. Undoubtedly, the most popular period for a visit is between December to March for Yala National Park is frequented by locals and foreign nationals alike eager to embrace its magical vibes. Ardent birdwatchers, especially those residing at Kithala Resort which is a preferred Tissamaharama hotel will discover that November through February is prime season as this is when numerous species of migratory birds descend over Yala.

Nature’s Hidden Gems: Hiking Trails Around Kandy

Situated in the Central Province, surrounded by the Knuckles and Hunnasgiriya mountain ranges, Kandy enjoys a colder climate, making it the ideal trail for hiking enthusiasts.

Mutukeliyawa View Point

If you have gone through the list of all the things to do in Kandy, you may be looking to step out of your comfort zone. However, it is understood that not everyone considers hiking for hours at an end fun. Thus, this hike is ideal for novices, as it can be completed in under 3 hours.

Hantana to Galaha

If you are looking to burn some calories after a hearty breakfast at a property such as Hotel Topaz, then consider embarking on the first stage of the Pekoe trail. This is another easy trail that is ideal for newcomers. This hike starts at the Ceylon tea museum at the Hantana estate, which is a must-visit.

Alagalla

While this is a popular hiking trail, it is more suitable for experienced hikers as the final steps of the journey involve a steep slope that is difficult to navigate.

Pettigala

This hike is open to anyone as it is relatively easy, and offers a breathtaking view. From the top, you would be able to observe both the Victoria reservoir and the Knuckles mountain range, which is absolutely worth the 1-kilometre hike.

Best Hiking Trails in Sri Lanka to Go on an Adventure

Sri Lanka is blessed with a stunning landscape and geography like no other. The hiking trails across the island treat you to the best views while being able to enjoy an exciting hike with your fellow wayfarers. Here are some of the best hiking trails you can try conquering next time.

Adam’s Peak

Undoubtedly the best spiritual hike you can take in Sri Lanka, this famous hiking trail leads to a sacred temple cherished by all religions. The hike is about 5200 steps on a steep hill, and you will find staircases at some points to make it easier. On your way, you will find many food joints where you can rest, too. The view from the top is breathtaking, and the sunrise is the most breathtaking sight. You can worship in the temple area and enjoy some cold breeze before you descend. You can plan most of your hikes and trips with Walkers Tours, for a hassle-free experience in hiking in Sri Lanka.

Horton Plains

One of the easier hikes that are around 9.5 kilometers in distance, the Horton Plains hike is ideal for nature lovers. You will witness the most enchanting waterfalls, misty mountains, lush greenery, and a range of flora and fauna during this hike. The trail ends at the World’s End, where you can get a magnificent view of the lowlands, cloudy skies, and the mountain range.

Lipton’s Seat

A different kind of hiking ideal for all tea enthusiasts, Lipton’s Seat is located in Haputale, where you can hike across the rich tea plantations and greenery to reward yourself with a unique viewpoint. You will get to observe the natural spoils as well as tea pluckers and factories on your way to the top of the mountain.

Trek to Hanthana Mountain

If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience, Hanthana Mountain is a must-visit destination. With its rugged terrain, stunning views, and diverse flora and fauna, this mountain offers an unforgettable adventure for hikers of all levels.

Getting to Hanthana Mountain

Hanthana Mountain is located just a few kilometres from the city of Kandy, making it easily accessible for visitors staying at properties likes Hanthana Boutique Villa by Amaya. To reach the mountain, take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the trailhead at the University of Peradeniya. From there, it’s a steep climb to the summit, so make sure you’re prepared with sturdy shoes, water, and snacks.

The Trail

The trek up Hanthana Mountain takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. It is one of the most popular things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife. Along the way, you’ll encounter several rest stops where you can take a break, refuel, and enjoy the scenery.

Flora and Fauna

Hanthana Mountain is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. Keep an eye out for sambar deer, purple-faced langurs, and a variety of bird species, including the endemic Sri Lanka junglefowl. The mountain is also known for its rare and endangered plant species, such as the Hanthana blueberry and the Hanthana tree fern.

Cultural and Historical Sites

In addition to its natural beauty, Hanthana Mountain is also home to several cultural and historical sites. Near the summit, you’ll find the ruins of an ancient temple and a cave that was once used by Buddhist monks for meditation. These sites offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and are well worth a visit.

Popular Places to Visit in Sapporo for Tourists

A city chock-full of historical attractions, parks and food – that’s what Sapporo is. Based on the island of Hokkaido, there’s plenty for the casual adventurer to take in be it natural or man-made, as the culture of Japan lives strong in its 5th largest city.

Hokkaido, Japan | Image by Magic Mary on Unsplash

Jozankei Onsen (Hot Spring)

Japan is a country well-known for its hot springs, so it’s almost necessary to include it in this list! In this case, there is history as well – the mineral-rich water has attracted visitors since 1866, many of them seeking the prized healing waters of the spring.

Hokkaido Jingu (Shrine)

For those more willing to take in the local culture, there exists the famous Hokkaido Shrine, one of the most important religious sites in the entirety of Japan. Constructed in 1857, it is one of the attractions that remain close to hotels near Sapporo Station, merely 20-30 minutes away by train or less if by car.

Sapporo Beer Museum

A little-known fact is that Hokkaido, the island on which Sapporo lies, is the birthplace of beer in Japan! Considering that fact, the Sapporo Beer Museum depicts the long history of beer-brewing in Japan, and its tour ends on a high note – drinking freshly brewed beer straight from the brewery. The museum itself is a short drive from accommodation properties for tourists to stay in, such as the Travelodge Sapporo Susukino.

Odori Park

Sitting in stark contrast to the high-rise buildings around it, the Odori Koen is a sweeping green vista that stretches for around 1.5 kilometres, which also serves to connect some of Sapporo’s attractions, making it a great place to visit for any tourist to have an organic walk-through of the city and its highlights.

Sapporo TV Tower

This 147-meter-tall marvel of human construction is considered one of Sapporo’s most famous attractions – and for good reason, as the view from the top is spectacular and the perfect place to have a meal, night or day. You can reach this spot from the earlier-mentioned Odori Park, making it a good spot to visit after an evening stroll for a night-time meal.

Most Thrilling Adventure Activities in Kuala Lumpur

Whether you fancy plunging off skyscrapers strapped to a parachute, chasing cloud-misted sunset views atop picturesque peaks, or glimpsing a bird’s-eye view of KL’s beautiful fusion architecture from a vibrant hot air balloon, this vivacious Capital has plenty of palpitations in store. Here are some of its spine-tingling experiences.

Recreational Forest Escape

If there’s nothing like nature to rejuvenate your spirits, you can combine this refreshing tranquillity with some adrenaline-rich activities, such as zip-lining, tightrope walking, and flying from tree to tree, at Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest, where you can embrace your inner Tarzan in the lush Skytrex rainforest obstacle course.

Whitewater Rafting Thrills

If aerial antics aren’t your strong suit, jungle river rapids await you just one hour away from KL at Kuala Kubu Bharu, where you can plummet through wild currents, hike up panoramic trails, chase musical cascades, and meet interesting indigenous tribes. If you’re looking for sophisticated suites in Kuala Lumpur proffering prime access to its most enthralling urban diversions, venture no further than the likes of PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur.

SuperPark Shenanigans

If you’re not super outdoorsy but are craving a spontaneous adrenaline rush, head over to the multi-purpose adventure wonderland of SuperPark, with its enticingly diverse arenas comprising of everything from obstacle walls, zip lines, and sports zones to trampolines, foam pits, and skate parks.

Dine in a River

If gastronomic expeditions excite you like nothing else, Ampang’s ultra-fancy BBQ Lamb KL Kemensah serves you deliciously gourmet food, including succulently grilled meat and seafood doused in homemade sauces, in the middle of a gushing river shaded by tree canopies!

Discover the Beauty of Bandung: A Guide to Your Perfect Day Trip

As the country’s 3rd largest city, Bandung is not only West Java’s mountain stronghold, but a holiday hotspot for the masses. Here’s what day-trippers can do during a tour of this scenic hideaway.

Tangkuban Perahu | Image by Affan Fadhlan on Unsplash

Marvel at the Cimahi Rainbow Waterfall

While the best time to gaze upon the Cimahi waterfall is during sunset when the light turns the cascade into a vertical rainbow, this towering natural wonder is stunning at any hour. Although the waterfall is known to double in size during the monsoon season, it is worth visiting the venue during the warmer months so that the hike up to the location is a more pleasant experience.

Hike Up the Tangkuban Perahu Volcano

No day tour of Badung would be complete without exploring the Tangkuban Perahu Volcano, which erupted for the last time in 2013. Those who are based at the FOX Harris Hotel City Center Bandung or any of the best hotels in Bandung must find a local tour operator for this volcanic tour even if the hike up to the crater’s lips is not that long.

Take a Dip in the Hot Springs

One of the best things to do in Badung is to enjoy a dip in the many hot springs in town. These hot springs are a result of the area’s volcanic heritage. Apart from the healing benefits of this warm dip, one can also unwind in style at either the Cibolang hot spring or the Sari Ater.

Uncover the Tea Estates

Don’t forget to stop by the many tea estates occupying Bandung where one can not only explore the tea plantations but also sign up for a factory tour. The tea estates close to Kawah Putih are especially captivating and ideal for long walks.

Trekking in Sri Lanka

Wondering where to spend your next island gateway? Sri Lanka will be an ideal choice with its exciting mix of mesmeric beaches, wildlife, and cultural sights.

Hill_Country | img by Sandali.L.Kumarasinghe via wikipedia commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Sri Lankan wildlife

Your safari tours in Sri Lanka will be incomplete if you fail to spot a Sri Lankan leopard. It is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. Leopard watching is an exciting activity adored by many tourists who visit Sri Lanka for a holiday. The Yala National Park consists of the highest density of leopards, and it is the best place to enjoy a glimpse of these wonderful spotted wild creatures.

Explore the picturesque hill country

Sri Lanka’s hill country is the most stunning, mist-wrapped land featuring spellbinding views lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and scenic mountains. Nuwara Eliya is a must-visit city showcasing some of the finest golf courses in Asia, breathtaking surroundings and exciting activities like course trekking, horse riding and camping. There are many accommodation options offered by travel entities like Amaya Resorts & Spas to make the best out of your stay.

A train ride to Kandy or Haputale

The train ride between Kandy and Ella is popular as one of the world’s top ten scenic train rides! This route will take you through vast and never-ending tea plantations in the country. The journey will take around four hours. Another option to consider will be to stop for a day or two in the small town of Haputale without going all the way to Kandy.

Go on a safari ride

Despite its appealing biological endemism, Sri Lanka is one of the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots. Sri Lanka is home to one of the three types of Asian elephants. Due to its largest concentration of elephants, leisure travellers from all around the world spare time to go on an elephant-watching safari to Yala.

Adventure at the Yala National Park

The Yala National Park is a designated wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka and is well known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. If your holiday itinerary includes a visit to the Yala National Park, be sure to take a peek at these nearby wonders.

Ruhuna National Park

This is the most visited area in the Yala National Park and is known for its high density of leopards. Ruhuna National Park, also known as Area 1 is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, spotted deer, and peacocks.

Kumana National Park

Counting the number of things to do in Yala? Why not pay a visit to Kumana National Park, once known as Yala East? Located in the southeast part of Sri Lanka, Kumana National Park is known for its wide range of bird species, including migratory birds from Europe and Asia. It is also home to elephants, crocodiles, and several species of deer.

Palatupana

Located on the coast of Yala National Park and only a 15-minute ride away from Cinnamon Wild Yala, Palatupana is a coastal town with beaches of clear, turquoise waters and white sandy shores. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and is also a great place to spot a variety of sea creatures, including dolphins and whales.

Situlpawwa Magul Maha Vihara

This ancient Buddhist temple is located within Yala National Park and is a popular spot for visitors interested in the park’s cultural history. The temple is surrounded by the lush green jungle and is a peaceful spot to take a break from the rest of the park.

Kudumbigala Monastery

Located approximately 22km from Yala National Park, this ancient Buddhist monastery is built on a beautiful rock. It’s a peaceful spot for meditation and contemplation and would be the ideal visit for those who appreciate a touch of spirituality in their vacation.