Jungle Tourism | The Adventure Travel Site

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.

Flight of the Gibbon

There is nothing quite like the feeling of zooming across the treetops of a vast forest. The rush and thrill are what most people sign up for to spice up their vacation!

The Flight of the Gibbon

This landmark attracted was established back in 2007 in the hopes of bringing to the people a new form of entertainment. If you are looking for an apartment for rent in Sriracha such as the Somerset Harbourview Sri Racha, be sure to spend some time trying out the zipline as well!

Safety

This zipline is extremely safe and is built using the best quality equipment from Europe and has been tested to meet all international regulations.

History of Flight of the Gibbon

This brand was the first zipline tour operator in Thailand and home to the longest zipline in Asia.

Locations

People who are in Thailand and are hoping to experience the zipline for themselves can now visit the Chonburi and Mae Kham locations.

Exploring the Shangqing Ancient Trail

More than 1,000 years old, the Shangqing Ancient Trail with its bamboo forest and pristine natural beauty is popular for hiking excursions from Shanghai.If you love nature and hiking, then add the Shangqing Ancient Trail to your itinerary the next time you are in Shanghai and here’s more on what you need to know.

Image credit- Unsplash,Marek Piwnicki,CC0

Planning Your Trip

This ancient trail is in the Zhejiang Province around 200 km from Shanghai, around a 2.5 to 3-hour drive away. For those staying in the Keqiao District of Shaoxing, serviced apartments here including those on offer at Citadines Keqiao Shaoxing make an ideal base in the city. Since getting to the trail can be tricky using public transport, consider signing up with a tour group.

A Long History

Also referred to as the Huiji Ancient Caravan Trail, this ancient trail is said to go back over a thousand years! It was originally the only road that connected Shengzhou County and Shaoxing County; this area was well-developed in the Tang Dynasty period and was linked with the trade of items like tea, wood and bamboo.

The Trail Today

While no more used for trade, the Shangqing Ancient Trail today offers the ideal hiking adventure set amidst scenic natural beauty. The most well-known section is the one connecting Suosiqiao Village with Xinlian Village and it’s well preserved too; it’s around 11 km long and features stone pavements and over 1,400 stone steps.

Hiking Highlights

The chance to enjoy pristine nature is one of the allures of the Shangqing Ancient Trail; you will come across an enchanting bamboo forest which adds to the area’s charm as well as shelters originally constructed for merchants who used this trail. You will also pass a more modern reservoir and at Xinlian Village, some old houses and eateries too.

Visiting Yala National Park in Sri Lanka

Yala National Park is renowned the world over for the incredible wildlife which lives within the confines of the park! Catch an exciting safari and witness the wild animals in their natural habitat. Here’s all you need to know before you go!
Best Time to Visit the Park
Whilst the park is open for the most part, it is considered to be “peak season” during the dry season. This runs from February to July, and it is during these months that the animals are drawn out the dense shrub to the watering holes in search of water.

Where is Yala?

This national park is located in the southeast of the island and spills over to provinces – Hambanthota and Monaragala. It’s one of the largest national parks and covers an extent of over 130,000 hectares. The park in itself is quite remote and it’s best to hire a private vehicle to reach it.

Where can I stay?

Despite being in a remote stretch, many hotels have sprung up to meet the demand in Yala. Hotels, resorts, villas, or guesthouses, there are varied accommodation options to suit your budget in the area! A Yala hotel such as the Cinnamon Wild Yala is an excellent choice for those who want to stay in the comforts of a lovely hotel whilst also being close to the park entrance.

What can I see?

What won’t you see in Yala, is a better question! From tuskers and elephants roaming the plains to plenty of Sri, Lankan sloth bears ambling about, you’ll have front row seats to plenty of exciting encounters with some wild critters. The most exciting spotting is always the Sri Lankan Leopard, as it is one of the shyest big cats in the world!

Bali – Jungle Swing Experience in Bali

When it comes to visiting places with a good view of lush greenery, one would normally think of hiking and being rewarded with a mountain view. But Bali offers a bit of a different experience with its collection of thrilling swings at the edge of cliffs.

Bali Swings

There is an amazing collection of swings here but mind you, it isn’t anything like the ones at children’s parks. These are thrilling and offer grand views of lush rice fields and forests.

Wanagiri Hidden Hills Swing

This place was literally built for those Instagram addicts looking for the best places to snap the perfect picture. This swing ride offers views of two beautiful lakes – Lake Tambingan and Lake Buyan.

Uma Pakel Swing

This swing is located in Ubud and overlooks the famous Tegalalang rice fields. The swing is not the only thing here, you also have the chance to take pictures in a giant bird’s nest.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace Swing

Set up in between 2 palm trees is this amazing swing that looks down on beautiful rice fields. The experience is more thrilling than ever. If you are looking for one of the best things to do in Tabanan, simply inquire at the front desk of your local hotel like Nirjhara for the nearest swings.

Exploring the Ba Vi National Park

For those who love the great outdoors and nature, the Ba Vi National Park in Vietnam offers much to discover and here’s a look at what awaits.

Planning Your Trip

This site is around 50 km from Hanoi; serviced apartment options near the CBD like Somerset Hoa Binh Hanoi make an ideal base for excursions to this attraction, about a 75-minute drive away. The dry season, from November to April, is generally the best time to visit and at the year’s end, many photograph wildflowers here too.

What to Expect

The Ba Vi National Park was once a French hill station and is known for its rich biodiversity, idyllic scenery and cool climate; no surprises it’s a popular place for weekend visits. A rich storehouse of flora including medicinal plants used by the Dao ethnic group, the site also has varied fauna from birdlife to flying squirrels.

The Three Peaks

The park is set amidst Ba Vi Mountain with three peaks of varying heights namely the Dinh Vua, Tan Vien and Ngoc Hoa peaks. They form a crest which at its tallest point is often shrouded in clouds adding to its enchantment. Not to be missed is a hike to the summit to visit the Ho Chi Minh Temple and take in the stunning vistas.

Other Highlights

There are lots of trails for hiking and trekking through forests or up mountain slopes where you will find sacred temples, an ancient pagoda, tranquil streams and hidden waterfalls. An ancient French church, a scenic pine forest, a cactus garden, an orchid garden and the Ngoc Hoa Cave are some of the other sites of interest here.

Catch a Glimpse of Leopards in Yala

Though Yala is loved for over 44 species of mammals, its leopard population is what attracts many tourists here. Many wildlife enthusiasts – be it foreign or local – don’t forget to go on a safari at this national park while they’re holidaying at a Yala hotel.

Overview

Yala National Park is the most visited of its kind in Sri Lanka. It’s divided into five blocks but only the first and the last are accessible for visitors. Block One is the most popular as it is home to around 40 leopards.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Yala National Park is the dry season of the country. February and March are considered the ideal months to visit should you wish to spot leopards.

Don’t Evade Personal Space

Choose to go on your safari with responsible and eco-minded drivers and guides. Plan to get the services of reputable companies such as Cinnamon Wild Yala that emphasises the well-being of animals over photo opportunities.

Identify Leopards

Lepoads yala national park | Image via Flickr

Just like fingerprints of humans, leopard spots are unique for each leopard. Experienced guides might be able to point out leopards by their names and describe their behavioural patterns.

A Weekend in Habarana to Make You Feel Relaxed

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, Habrana is quite the place that is going to definitely pique your interest. There are hotels in the midst of greenery, animals at every corner and lovely fresh air to breathe in. Here are a few things to do on a weekend there.

Minneriya wildlife safari

This place is a short distance away from hotels like Habarana Village by Cinnamon. The main animal you will be looking out for on your safari would be elephants. Try to start your safari around 4:45/5 pm to avoid the heat.

Pidurangala Rock, Sigirya

You will need to pay a small entrance fee to climb this rock, but its totally worth it! Once you reach the top, you will be greeted with a splendid view of Sigirya Rock in the distance and the mass of greenery surrounding the area.

The Golden Temple

There is so much more than the prominent golden Buddha you will see no sooner you reach the foot of the temple. You will have to indulge in a 20-minute hike to the hill on which the temple is situated. Moreover, there are stunning rooms with several images of Buddha to discover.

Spend some time at the pool

Take the chance to explore the Sri Lanka resort you are lodged at as well with a dip in the pool and perhaps a good meal at the buffet. You could also hit the bar for one of your favourite coolers.

Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Carthage

Found in present-day Tunisia, Ancient Carthage has a rich history and though many of its once grandiose structures are in ruins, this UNESCO World Heritage Sites still offers much to discover.

Archaeological Park

Amongst the key sites in Ancient Carthage, the Archaeological Park offers insights into the city’s history including when it was under Roman rule. Within easy reach of properties like The Residence Tunis by Cenizaro, this site is home to graves from the 5th century BC, an underground burial chapel, Roman cisterns and more.

Baths of Antonine

Dating to the 2nd century AD, these ruins of an expansive Roman bath complex overlooking the Mediterranean is also worth visiting from a Tunis hotel. While only several columns and the foundations are to be found, you can imagine what it would have been like in the days when Romans used these baths.

Theatre & Roman Villas

Overlooking the ocean and constructed on a hillside, this ancient Roman theatre offers a captivating sight on Avenue Reine Didon. Nearby, is a park in which one can see ancient Punic shaft graves as well as the restored 3rd century Villa des Volières, which features fragments of sculpture and lovely views from the terrace.

Carthage National Museum

A great place to learn more about Ancient Carthage, the Carthage National Museum showcases key artefacts that were found at the historical sites and ruins. You can get a clearer idea of what the city would have been like as well as view a wide range of exhibits from sarcophagi and jewellery to sarcophagi.

Wildlife Safaris in Mozambique

In the African nation of Mozambique, wildlife safaris are not only land-based but can be experienced in the water too! Here are some of the best spots for such experiences.

Bazaruto National Park

Home to a protected marine reserve, the Bazaruto National Park covers an archipelago with several islands. Those staying here including at the property of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas can explore the waters of the park and encounter dolphins, whales, sharks, manta rays, sailfish, turtles and endangered dugongs too.

Quirimbas National Park

Enjoying water-based safaris at the Quirimbas National Park is amongst the best things to do; Mozambique gives travellers a chance to explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which has thriving wildlife including turtles, migrating humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, leopard sharks, crocodile fish and more.

Gorongosa National Park

For wildlife safaris in Mozambique on dry land, a popular choice would be Gorongosa National Park. Apart from guided safari drives, there are canoe and boat safaris here too; on your adventures, you may spot elephants, lions, impalas, warthogs, baboons, crocodiles, hippos and not forgetting more than 500 bird species.

Niassa Reserve

The country’s largest conservation area, the Niassa Reserve is another wildlife hotspot with thousands of elephants, buffalos and sables along with many zebras and Lichtenstein’s hartebeests. Smaller populations of wildebeest, kudu, hippo, leopard, lion and African wild dog can also be seen for an unforgettable safari.