Natural | The Adventure Travel Site

Malaysia’s Wildlife Encounters

Malaysia is home to some of the most diverse and oldest wildlife ecosystems in the world and has a great variety of national parks spread across the region. It is also known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Here are the top spots to experience wildlife like no other.

Penang_National_Park_-_panoramio_(4) — Alexey Komarov, Penang National Park – panoramio (4), CC BY 3.0

Taman Negara National Park

Located in Peninsular Malaysia, Taman Negara is one of the world’s oldest rainforests. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife including tigers, Asian elephants, rare birds, and unique plants. Canopy walks and river cruises offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, and you can also find the Rafflesia arnoldii, the largest flower in the world. While not the most pleasant smelling, or the prettiest looking, you should definitely keep an eye out for it.

Penang National Park

Despite its small size, Penang National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monitor lizards, macaques, and various bird species. The park also features mangrove forests and pristine beaches. It should be an easy visit for you if you’re staying at a hotel in Penang. Georgetown contains some of the most comfortable accommodation options for you to begin your wildlife adventure, with properties such as Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang providing welcoming lodging for the weary traveller.

Mount Kinabalu National Park

Mount Kinabalu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic natural destinations in Malaysia. Located in the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo, the park is known for its incredible biodiversity and the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak. The park’s namesake and centerpiece, Mount Kinabalu stands at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet) above sea level. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, offering various trekking routes suitable for different skill levels.

Journeying Into Japanese Gardens

The country of Japan is more serene than most and can be seen in its beautiful, tranquil gardens. Shaped by principles of balance and harmony with nature, the Japanese garden isn’t merely a collection of shrubs and bushes, but an experience to engage with beauty beyond time and serenity beyond explanation. Dig deep and prepare yourself for insights into Asian culture and living.

Japanese_garden_view_3 — Daniel X. O’Niel, Japanese garden view 3, CC BY 2.0

The Allure

With meticulous design and subtle elegance, the gardens of Japan are treated as an escape – a getaway from the bustle of daily life. Going beyond a simple arrangement of flowers and trees, the approach to gardening mirrors the philosophies of Japanese culture, embodying a profound respect for nature and representing inner tranquillity. As if stepping into a different world, away from the chaos of urbanism, it’s no wonder that it’s considered something close to purification in people’s hearts.

The Essence

Understanding the essence of a Japanese garden is quite simple – the space is designed for contemplation and meditation, encapsulating the spirits of nature and harmony. Different from the modern day, the Japanese people used to be one that lived in balance with nature, admiring the powers of Mother Earth, and worshipping the mountains, forests, and seas of the country. This reverence still remains to this day, as seen from the sights visible from hotels in Osaka, Japan.

The Design Principles

Any Japanese garden is designed with four major principles in mind – Water, Stones, Plantings, and Scenic Objects. These elements work together to create a balanced and harmonious atmosphere – from the water’s position as a source of life to the background scenery of the objects placed.

The Examples

There are what’s known as the Three Great Gardens of Japan – easily reachable from accommodations like the Travelodge Honmachi Osaka. Consider visiting Kenroku-En, Kairaku-En, and Koraku-En, each with its own distinct character and design, for insights into the principles mentioned earlier being put into practice. The allure of these places is easily perceived through aesthetics and tranquil atmospheres, a testament to the profoundly deep culture of Japan.

Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Centre – A Must-Visit for All Bird Lovers!

If you are a bird lover, then Hanthana Bird Park is one destination that you cannot miss. Situated in the central province, this park contains over 100 species of birds. Along with foreign breeds, this park also houses some rare local birds.

Hanthana International Bird Park |img via unsplash

Location

Situated in Hanthana, Kandy, this park is located off the Tea Museum that is based in this area. Therefore, if you’re staying at one of the Kandy hotels the likes of Amaya Hills Kandy, you can easily visit this park. Containing over twenty-seven acres of land, this park has much to offer.

Opening Times

You may want to visit the park on a Monday to avoid the crowd. But keep in mind that the park is only open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm.

Things to Do

Hanthana is more than a bird park in reality because there is also a bird orphanage, a quarantine unit and a bird shelter. Additionally, there is an educational training centre that would be ideal for those interested in learning more about these creatures. Therefore, if you plan to make this trip with your kids, we can guarantee that it will be an educational experience.

Other Animals

Although referred to as a bird park, Hanthana also houses other animals including turtles, monkeys and rabbits.

Climbing the Ambuluwawa Tower

Tucked away amidst the enchanting landscapes of Gampola, Sri Lanka, the Ambuluwawa Tower stands tall as an iconic attraction that offers visitors a mesmerizing experience amidst the country’s breathtaking natural beauty. Rising above the verdant hills, this architectural gem beckons travellers to embark on a journey of exploration, spiritual tranquillity, and panoramic views.

A Towering Architectural Marvel

The Ambuluwawa Tower stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and cultural fusion. Its striking design blends elements from Sri Lankan, Thai, Chinese, and Indian architectural styles, creating a unique and captivating structure. The tower’s octagonal shape, ornate embellishments, and vibrant colours make it a visual delight that exudes a sense of grandeur and tranquillity.

Spiritual Serenity

At the heart of the Ambuluwawa Tower lies a serene Buddhist temple, providing visitors with a sanctuary for contemplation and spiritual connection. The temple’s intricate artwork, tranquil ambience, and soothing chants create an atmosphere of peace and inner reflection. Visitors can immerse themselves in the spiritual aura, offering a respite from the outside world.

Panoramic Vistas

Ascending the heights of the Ambuluwawa Tower rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the picturesque landscape. From the observation deck, one can marvel at the rolling hills, verdant tea plantations, and the lush beauty of Sri Lanka’s central region. The interplay of mist-cloaked mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the ever-changing light create a spectacle that leaves a lasting impression.

Nature’s Paradise

The Ambuluwawa Tower is nestled within the larger Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. Exploring the complex offers an opportunity to witness the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can embark on guided walks, discover endemic plant species, and encounter a wide array of birdlife. The complex serves as a haven for nature enthusiasts, providing a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

An Eco-Conscious Haven

The Ambuluwawa Tower exemplifies Sri Lanka’s commitment to environmental conservation. The site incorporates sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting, renewable energy generation, and waste management systems. By visiting the tower, visitors contribute to the preservation of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage and support eco-conscious initiatives that protect the delicate ecosystems.

Visiting Ambuluwawa Tower

A visit to the Ambuluwawa Tower is a journey filled with wonder and tranquillity. Exploring its levels, admiring the intricate architectural details, and soaking in the awe-inspiring views from the observation deck provide an unforgettable experience. Kandy bungalows in the area such as Hanthana Boutique Villa by Amaya are located just an hour’s drive away and prove to be the ideal base to be at if you are planning to visit the tower during your vacation.

Hidden Gems in Whistler to Uncover During Your Visit

British Columbia takes pride in the world-class adventures in its coastal rainforest, Whistler. Discover the hidden gems in this tranquil landscape while you immerse yourself in the most memorable time. Here are some activities to boost your stay at Whistler.

The Train Wreck Hike

Hiker walking through snow on a Train Wreck, Whistler | Image by *Zane* via *unsplash*

If you crave awe-inspiring vistas coupled with an exhilarating surge of adrenaline, look no further than the legendary Train Wreck trail nestled within the scenic wonderland of Whistler. The trail owes its name to a historic freight train mishap that occurred many years ago, and now, the remnants of the wreckage have transformed into a captivating pathway, beckoning hikers and bikers alike. This is one of the most popular places to see in Whistler, and it is only a 10-minute ride from hotels like Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside.

Indulge in Local Breakfast

Whistler’s breakfast is a must-try for those who want to discover local flavours and hearty spreads. The poutine is to die for, and the fluffy pancakes packed with flavours of maple syrup are a true delight. You can find healthy meals like Caesar’s salads and smoothies to boost your day and keep you refreshed.

Paddleboard

Whistler Lake takes the spotlight of the neighbourhood with its serenity and tranquillity. Paddleboarding in the lake and tread the clear blue waters for a relaxing experience, or even try some yoga on a paddleboard for a change, letting the soothing breeze revive your energy. You can rent paddleboards for hours or days depending on your love for this activity.

The Kandy Perahera in Sri Lanka

Ranked as the oldest spiritual event in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist calendar, the Kandy Perahera is an annual procession with a rich history and legacy that dates back centuries.

The Sacred Tooth Relic

Although most tourists head to Sri Lanka to witness the Kandy Perahera every July/August, most are unaware of the sacred tooth relic and its connection to this iconic procession. Once a year, the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha stored at the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) is encased in a jewelled container and travels the length of Kandy on the back of a tusker. While the actual tooth relic remains protected inside the temple, it is a replica that takes part in the festivities associated with the Kandy Perahera, symbolising the prized possession of the Buddhist faith in Sri Lanka.

A Grand Affair

No aspect of the Kandy Perahera can be deemed small-scale, and it is considered one of the largest and longest processions in the world. Although the tooth relic is the focal point of the parade, it is easy to lose sight of this holy object in a procession that includes fire breathers, whip crackers and countless drummers and dancers. Acrobats, swordsmen and performance artists of every imaginable variety take part in the procession.

The Hindu Shrines

The Temple of the Tooth is not the only Kandyan religious institution that is involved in the parade as the participation of the Vishnu, Katharagama, Natha and Pattini Hindu Temples in Kandy have been part of the celebrations for decades.

Witnessing the Perahera

Tourists and pilgrims often travel to Kandy, Sri Lanka, to witness the procession and navigate the streets of the city as documented by Kandy Escapes and other travel blogs. Locals, however, catch the parade live on national TV.

Things Not to Do in Krabi

The appealing coastal locality of Krabi in Thailand would always be an attractive place at which to spend time; to make the most of your visit, there would be some things you should never miss when here like those aspects mentioned below.

Miss a visit to the Tiger Temple

An engrossing religious attraction in Krabi would be Wat Tham Seua or Tiger Temple; this fascinating shrine is believed to be a place where formerly tigers made their home. At this site, you could also undertake interesting hikes, view the large trees and perhaps observe the monks who live within the caves to be found here.

Not take a longtail boat excursion

Your visit to Krabi wouldn’t be complete without taking a trip to the nearby islands on a longtail boat. On one of these excursions, you would be able to admire the picturesque sights and visit the entrancing locations that would delight visitors. A Phi Phi Island holiday resort in Krabi to consider from which you could take such a longtail boat excursion would be SAii Phi Phi Island Village.

Avoid experiencing the local foods

During your visit to Krabi, you would have the opportunity to feast on some delectable local foods and you should always take the chance to enjoy a delicious buffet of authentic dishes. Here, you would be able to savour typical Thai culinary creations such as som tam, fried fish, larb, squid, massaman curry and so on.

Not visiting Railay Bay

A well-known attraction in Krabi would be Railay Bay which would draw the interest of adventure seekers as well as those who wish to relax by the coast. Here, you would have the opportunity to bask in the sun amidst the scenic surroundings or perhaps try your hand at rock climbing around the nearby cliffs.

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.

Amazing Wildlife to Be Seen at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

The well-known Yala National Park in Sri Lanka would be a delight for nature and wildlife enthusiasts; if you undertake a safari here, you would have the opportunity to spot many kinds of enthralling wildlife to be seen here.

Elephants

Undoubtedly, the Sri Lankan elephant would be a highlight at Yala National Park, with as many as 300 to 350 of them residing here. You will see these magnificent creatures roaming around or bathing in waterholes and lagoons. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could easily experience the Yala wildlife and which will help to organise safaris would be the appealingly located Cinnamon Wild Yala.

Leopards

You will find that Yala National Park boasts the greatest density of leopards to be found anywhere in the world. These majestic creatures, which are Sri Lanka’s apex predators, feed mainly on wild boar and deer and could often be spotted in lowlands and scrubland. Keep in mind that morning and dusk would be the best times for spotting leopards at Yala.

Sloth bears

The Sri Lankan sloth bear would be another intriguing creature that could be spotted at Yala National Park. These bears have shaggy thick fur, a long snout and a head similar in shape to that of a dog. These creatures feed mainly on termites, ants, various fruits, honeycombs, nuts, plants and rodents and are great to photograph.

Birds

Peacock — Birds – Photo by Chanuka Nimsara on Unsplash

Yala is also renowned for the engrossing kinds of birds to be found within it. Birdwatching enthusiasts would have the opportunity to spot varieties like the blue-tailed bee-eater, peacock, painted stork, grey heron and so on. Of particular interest would be endemic species of birds including the Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka grey hornbill and crimson-fronted barbet.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: An Experience Worth Relishing

Pinnawala, with its luxuriant plantation surroundings and generously flowing river, is a welcome sight for nature lovers. Its stunning population of Asian elephants, rescued from harsh realities, effortlessly captures the hearts of visitors regardless of their age or wildlife affinity.

Elephants being fed at an orphanage | Image by Taru Goyal on Unsplash

A Historic Wildlife Sanctuary

Now comprising 93 gracefully gigantic inhabitants, this true-to-nature refuge – the world’s largest sanctuary for Asian elephants – was established in 1975 to provide a safe space for young elephants left injured or abandoned in the wild.

Bonding with Gentle Giants

Spanning ten to thirteen feet in height and weighing up to twelve thousand kilograms, the size of these mammals may intimidate you at first, but their wise, gracious, and playful ways will soon put even a child at ease. Pinnawala gives you an intimate glimpse into a day in the life of a Sri Lankan elephant – from feeding a sweet baby elephant from a milk bottle to watching these massive creatures splash each other as they bathe in the river and gambol together in the nursery.

When to Visit?

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is found approximately an hour’s drive away from the UNESCO-listed heritage jewel of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Make sure to head to the iconic wildlife oasis in time for breakfast at 9:15 am or lunch at 1:15 pm and swim time at 10 am and 2 pm. Travel to Kandy for enriching experiences like this, and enlist the expert guidance of travel blogs such as Kandy Escapes.

Safe and Savvy Tips

While it’s easy to be swept away by the gentle approachability and charming antics of these gargantuan animals, it’s also important to treat them with respect and consideration, keeping to the guidelines instructed by the trained staff.