Natural | The Adventure Travel Site

Explore the Tranquil Beauty of Sai Rung Waterfall in Khao Lak

A tranquil experience

Sai Rung Waterfall, located in Khao Lak’s stunning national park, is a hidden gem that offers both natural beauty and adventure. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone seeking a peaceful escape, here are five reasons why this waterfall should be at the top of your list.

Picturesque Scenery

Sai Rung is a multi-tiered waterfall set amidst lush tropical jungle, offering visitors an awe-inspiring view of cascading water and greenery.

Perfect for a Swim

The waterfall features natural pools, inviting you to take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear water after your hike. If you are staying at Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, it is located nearby.

Easy-to-Access Trail

The hike to Sai Rung is a pleasant trek, making it accessible for beginners and experienced hikers alike. The trail takes you through beautiful rainforest scenery, making it one of the top things to do in Khao Lak.

Peaceful Ambiance

Unlike more crowded tourist spots, Sai Rung Waterfall offers a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for quiet reflection and enjoying nature’s serenity.

Wildlife Encounter

As you explore the surrounding forest, you may spot local wildlife such as butterflies, birds, and small mammals, making the trek even more exciting.

Sai Rung Waterfall is the perfect spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature, experience an easy hike, and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by stunning views. Add this magical waterfall to your Khao Lak itinerary for an unforgettable adventure.

Discovering Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Treasures: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital city, is a vast desert landscape with tradition and modernity. Here are some must-visit places to experience its history and modern marvels in your Abu Dhabi adventure.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Experience a moment of reflection amidst a serene atmosphere and the mosque’s intricate designs depicting modern architecture’s marvels. The journey through the marbled halls, gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, and the vast marble mosaic artwork of the courtyard is a pleasing sight for tourists. The mosque is similar to the grand cathedrals of Europe and is also a testament to the UAE’s cultural heritage. Visit this magnificent attraction while staying at Resorts in Abu Dhabi the likes of Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara.

Heritage Village

The village is a time capsule and a family-friendly spot to experience the traditional way of life in the UAE. Tourists can witness artisans demonstrating crafts such as pottery, blowing glass, metalwork, and weaving fabric on a loom. Also, the village has a little spice shop offering dried herbs, soaps, and souvenirs for sale.

Abu Dhabi Dates Market

Date Market — Image by Ahmed1251985 via wikimedia commons

You can experience a taste of tradition and modernity by visiting the Abu Dhabi Dates Market. The rich aroma of dates here makes you linger on the market premises. Also, you can buy a variety of dates and date products from here.

Ferrari World

Ferrari World is a fitting finale for a thrilling adventure. Here, you can enjoy an adrenaline-fueled ride on a roller coaster such as Turbo Track, Flying Ace, or Formula Rossa.

Discover the Wonders of the Snake Farm in Bangkok

What to Know Before You Go

Located in the heart of Bangkok, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute’s Snake Farm is a captivating destination for both nature lovers and curious minds. Here are five things you need to know before visiting this unique spot:

A Premier Research Centre

Snake_Farm_Bangkok — Image by ekeidar via Wikimedia commons

The Snake Farm is not just a tourist attraction but a world-renowned research facility. It focuses on snake venom research, contributing to the development of life-saving antivenoms for snakebites.

Convenient Location

Located near Lumphini Park, just a 5-minute drive from Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, the Snake Farm is easily accessible and offers an educational escape from the bustling city. It’s a must-visit spot for families and nature enthusiasts.

Live Educational Snake Shows

One of the highlights of the Snake Farm is its live shows, where skilled handlers showcase different species and demonstrate how to safely interact with venomous snakes — making it one of the unique things to do in Bangkok. These shows are both educational and thrilling, offering valuable insights into snake behaviour.

A Diverse Collection of Snakes

From the mighty reticulated python to the notorious king cobra, the Snake Farm houses a wide array of snake species. Many are native to Thailand, but you’ll also encounter fascinating snakes from around the globe.

Interactive Exhibits

Beyond the shows, the farm features informative exhibits that delve into the science of venom, snake conservation, and the importance of snakes in ecosystems. It’s an engaging experience for all ages.

Explore Asiatique Sky, Bangkok’s Iconic Ferris Wheel

Soar high!

Nestled in the heart of Bangkok, Asiatique Sky at the Asiatique Riverfront blends charm, culture, and adventure into one unforgettable destination. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, family-friendly activities, or a fun night out with friends, this attraction promises to elevate your Bangkok experience!

Scenic Boat Ride to Begin Your Adventure

Kick off your visit with a picturesque boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. This relaxing journey to Asiatique Riverfront sets the mood for an evening of exploration, offering a glimpse of Bangkok’s vibrant riverside life.

Soar Above Bangkok on Asiatique Sky

Standing tall as Bangkok’s highest Ferris wheel, Asiatique Sky delivers breathtaking 360° views of the glittering cityscape. Whether it’s the glowing skyline at night or the peaceful hues of twilight, the ride is a magical experience perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends.

A Feast of Thai Flavours and Unique Finds

After the ride, explore Asiatique’s vast array of authentic Thai restaurants and street food stalls. Savour everything from spicy curries to sweet mango sticky rice. Once your appetite is satisfied, browse stalls offering handcrafted souvenirs, trendy clothes, and quirky accessories. You can also consider relaxing at a Bangkok cocktail bar.

Unwind in Luxury Nearby

After an exciting evening at Asiatique Sky, retreat to the serene comforts of a luxurious stay. The nearby Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, for example, offers an oasis of tranquillity, allowing you to relax and recharge in style while staying close to the vibrant riverside attractions.

Enchanting Live Performances

Dive into Thailand’s rich traditions with captivating live performances at Asiatique. From cultural shows to lively street performances, the vibrant entertainment adds an extra touch of magic to your visit.

Top Thrilling Water Sports and Adventure Excursions in the Maldives: Dive Into the Ultimate Ocean Rush!

The Maldives isn’t just about luxury resorts and serene beaches—it’s a paradise for adrenaline junkies, too! With crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, this island nation offers some of the most exhilarating water adventures on the planet. Whether you’re soaring above the waves or diving into the deep blue, the Maldives guarantees heart-pounding experiences you’ll never forget.

Scuba Diving with Sharks: A Deep-Sea Thrill
Nothing gets your heart racing like an up-close encounter with sharks! The Maldives is home to stunning dive sites where you can swim alongside reef sharks, hammerheads, and even the elusive whale shark. Sites like Maaya Thila and Fish Head are legendary for their abundant marine life, offering an unforgettable underwater adventure. Don’t worry—these sharks are more interested in their natural prey than in you!

Flyboarding: Take Flight Over the Ocean
If you’ve ever dreamt of flying, flyboarding is the perfect sport for you. Propelled by high-powered water jets, you’ll soar above the Indian Ocean, performing gravity-defying stunts. Many luxury resorts, including Huvafen Fushi Maldives, offer flyboarding sessions, ensuring you get the ultimate high-flying thrill. This is one Maldives thing to do that will make you feel like a superhero!

Jet Skiing: Speed Across the Turquoise Waters

Jet_Skis — Image by Bernard Spragg. NZ via wikimedia commons

For those who crave speed, jet skiing in the Maldives is an absolute must. Glide across the stunning lagoons, explore uninhabited islands, and feel the rush of saltwater spray as you race across the waves. Whether solo or with a partner, this is the perfect mix of adventure and scenic beauty.

Parasailing: Soar with a View
For an adventure that blends excitement with breathtaking views, parasailing is the way to go. Suspended high above the ocean, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Maldives’ iconic atolls and coral reefs. The feeling of weightlessness and the spectacular scenery make this a must-try experience for thrill-seekers and romantics alike.

Final Thoughts
From diving into shark-infested waters to soaring high above the ocean, the Maldives offers endless ways to get your adrenaline pumping. So, if you’re looking for more than just a relaxing holiday, pack your adventurous spirit and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle – A Historical Journey

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is a treasure trove of history, home to ancient capitals, sacred temples, and breathtaking ruins. Each site tells a story of kings, religion, and remarkable craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.

Polonnaruwa: Relics of a Golden Age

Polonnaruwa, the second capital of Sri Lanka, is home to well-preserved ruins, including massive Buddha statues and intricately carved temples. Exploring these sites with a private tour in Sri Lanka offers deeper insights into the kingdom’s architectural brilliance and cultural significance.

Dambulla Cave Temple: A Sacred Masterpiece

Perched on a hilltop, the Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Inside, you’ll find over 150 statues of Buddha and vivid murals that date back centuries. Many travellers choose guided experiences with the likes of Ceylon Tours to fully appreciate the temple’s artistic and spiritual heritage.

Sigiriya: The Majestic Rock Fortress

Rising nearly 200 metres above the surrounding plains, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. Its intricate frescoes, symmetrical gardens, and the legendary Lion’s Paw entrance make it a true engineering marvel. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views of the lush landscape.

Anuradhapura: The First Great Kingdom

Once the heart of Sri Lanka’s civilisation, Anuradhapura dates back over 2,000 years. This UNESCO-listed city is filled with grand stupas, ancient monasteries, and sacred sites like the Sri Maha Bodhi, a fig tree grown from a sapling of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

A Guide to Whale Watching in Sri Lanka’s South Coast—In Search of the Giants of the Ocean!

While Sri Lanka’s south coast is famed for its sublime, sun-kissed shores, it’s also the ideal destination for whale watching, one of the island’s most magical experiences. If your interest or curiosity has been piqued, here’s more on what you should know!

Where and When
Mirissa is your go-to spot for whale watching on the south coast, easily one of the top things to do in Sri Lanka. The harbour of this charming seaside town is the launch point for boat trips heading to Weligama Bay, a hotspot for seeing whales. Keep in mind you need to visit between December and April for the best chance to see these gentle giants swimming wild and free.

Planning Your Excursion
Base yourself at a beach resort along the south coast in a place like Kalutara, which offers easy access to Mirissa as well as other popular destinations, including Galle. Choose a property like Anantara Kalutara Resort that will organise your whale-watching adventure, which can additionally feature everything from snorkelling and hand-line fishing to a picnic meal. Also, remember that boats from Mirissa leave around 6:30 a.m., so get a good night’s sleep for an early start!

What You Can Spot
A typical whale-watching trip lasts 2 to 4 hours, and while sightings aren’t guaranteed, your chances are excellent. The main star to catch sight of is the awe-inspiring blue whale, the planet’s largest creature. You might also glimpse sperm whales, Bryde’s whales, or fin whales. As a bonus, keep an eye out for common or bottlenose dolphins who sometimes may put on a ‘show’ leaping above the water!

Dolphins__Whale_Watching_ — Image by Malindu Rathnayaka via Wikimedia Commons

Know Before You Go
If you are prone to motion sickness (or don’t want to find out the hard way!), take seasickness pills before you begin your excursion. Protect yourself from the elements with sunblock, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap since it can get quite windy. Bring a waterproof case for your phone or camera, and remember, never throw litter into the ocean or disturb the marine life you encounter.

The Serenity of Dolphin Watching: Tips for a Memorable Adventure on the Waters

Watching Dolphins in the Maldives is like watching a graceful dance in the water. The sight of these playful creatures is a delight to witness and many relish the chance to catch a glimpse of them as they effortlessly glide through the waters. Here are some tips to follow to ensure you have a memorable dolphin-watching experience.

Visit at the Right Time

Timing is everything when it comes to spotting these playful creatures. While dolphin watching is one of the year-round attractions in Maldives, the best time to visit is in November and April.

Get the Help of a Guide

Teaming up with a local guide is invaluable as they possess a close understanding of the ocean. With their help, you’ll be able to reach hot spots frequented by the dolphins to increase your chances of spotting them.

Patience is Key

There’s no guarantee that you’ll spot the playful dolphins as soon as you venture out. The key is to stay patient and watch for sudden playful splashes or the sight of a dorsal fin. Remember that dolphin watching is about the process as much as it is about spotting these elegant creatures.

Choose Reputed Operators

Make a positive impact by choosing a reputed tour operator. You can organise an excursion through resorts like Niyama Private Islands Maldives or select an operator that follows the right guidelines to ensure that the dolphins are protected during the tour.

Explore Sai Rung Waterfall in Khao Lak – The Hidden Natural Gem of Thailand

The Sai Rung Waterfall is a 20m high waterfall, that offers a refreshing and peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is not the most well-known waterfall in the region, but it is the perfect getaway for nature and adventure lovers too. Here is everything you need to know to plan your next visit to Thailand.

How to Get There

From Khao Lak, it’s a 15-minute scooter ride to the Sai Rung Waterfall. The best way to get there is to take a Tuk Tuk or rent a motorbike for 200–300 Baht.

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sai Rung Waterfall is from June through to October as the water flow is at its highest and not so much during the dry season as the water flow may reduce. When you do decide to fly to Thailand, make sure to visit the Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, firstly because it is just eight minutes from this natural beauty, but also because you can grab some amazing Phang Nga hotel deals with their advance purchase offer.

What to Expect When You Visit

With the heat, you can expect to cool yourself down with a dip in the natural pool. Because it does not get overly crowded, the locals and tourists make their way to the waterfall to relax as well as to escape the heat of the sun.

Things to Pack

Make sure to pack plenty of drinking water, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a towel, a waterproof bag, food, comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit, and a camera or phone for taking plenty of pictures and making plenty of memories.

All Aboard: A Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Highlands

Sri Lanka’s scenic train rides aren’t just a means of transport; they’re magical journeys that take you through landscapes, each with their own unique stories. Imagine lush green hills rolling past your window, the crisp mountain air rushing in, and the gentle clatter of the tracks beneath you. These train journeys through the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country offer the chance to search for a new meaning to life. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or that perfect Instagram shot, these rides have it all.

Ella_sri_lanka — Yudesh, Ella sri lanka, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Iconic Kandy to Ella Route: A Moving Postcard

Arguably the most famous train ride in Sri Lanka, the journey from Kandy to Ella is like travelling through a dream. Towering mountains, endless tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls create an ever-changing landscape. Hanging out of the open doors—safely, of course—is practically a rite of passage for visitors. Don’t forget your camera; every twist and turn offers a view more stunning than the last.

Nanu Oya to Haputale: Tea Country at Its Finest

For those who want a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Nanu Oya to Haputale route is pure magic. Misty peaks rise above sprawling tea estates, with quaint villages tucked between them. A stay at a boutique hotel in Sri Lanka, such as the Aarunya Nature Resort, is the perfect way to soak in the tranquillity after a long but mesmerising ride through the hills.

Badulla’s Hidden Gems: A Slow-Paced Escape

Few travellers continue past Ella, but the Badulla stretch offers a peaceful, untouched side of Sri Lanka’s hill country. Here, the train slows, weaving through ancient forests and rustic villages. It’s the ideal route for those who love a quiet, scenic ride with fewer crowds and more space to breathe.

Riding in Style: First Class or Open Doors?

Whether you choose first-class comfort, second-class charm, or third-class adventure, each has its own appeal. First class offers reserved seats and air conditioning, while second class provides the classic open-window experience. For the truly adventurous, third-class seating, though crowded, lets you mingle with locals and immerse yourself fully in the journey.