What To Do In Shinjuku As A First Time Traveler? 10+ Attractions You Cannot Miss In 2026 

BY  Sibashree Mar 24, 2026

After spending time in the northern city of Jaffna exploring everything it has to offer, I was looking forward to relaxing.  Jaffna has some beautiful temples, and despite being a slow travel destination, the rich Tamil culture and history offered a fulfilling experience.  However, I needed a place where I could relax and soak in the memories I have collected there. I intended to enjoy just those "beachy" times when I arrived at Trincomalee, and that is exactly what I found on the Uppuveli Beach.  This was the ultimate "holiday within my backpacking trip," and completely different from the beaches in Jaffna. Where Is The Uppuveli Beach? Uppuveli Beach is in Trincomalee. On the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka, it is further the epicenter if you are exploring the things to do in Trincomalee.  The distance between the Uppuveli Beach and the Trincomalee city center is just 6 kilometers. So, you can reach within a drive of just 15 minutes.  Moreover, it is famous for the beauty of the Bay of Bengal, and from here you can explore nearby attractions such as the Pigeon Island Marine National Park and Swami Rock. How To Reach Uppuveli Beach From Trincomalee? The Blue Bus Experience? You can travel from Jaffna to Trincomalee by bus like me. Trincomalee, anyway, is a major transport hub.  Furthermore, it is well-connected to Colombo, Kandy, and even Habarana, which is the major gateway to many other things to see in Sri Lanka, such as the Hurulu Eco Park, Sigiriya Rock, the Pidurangala Rock, and the Kaudulla National Park.  I reached Trincomalee from Jaffna by bus within 4 hours and 50 minutes. However, our driver, Ahoy, said that on days of dense traffic, it can take up to 5 hours and 30 minutes.  Travel From Jaffna To Trincomalee By Bus The blue buses from Jaffna to Trincomalee are the cheapest mode of transport. The ticket cost roughly 1100 LKR.  From Trincomalee To Uppuveli Beach  From the Trincomalee Bus Station, I took a tuk-tuk to the Uppuveli Beach. The tuk-tuk driver charged me 500 LKR.  The Experience At Uppuveli Beach  Uppuveli Beach is the place that offers you simplicity, and here, you will forget keeping track of your time.  You can swim, sunbathe, or just soak in the beauty of the golden hour, or just soak in the beauty of golden hour or count the waves like me.  The Golden Hour See a sunset on the beach while it’s still dark out.  Uppuveli faces the east, and it offers an amazing view of the Bay of Bengal when the sun rises.  The sky looks like it’s on fire with shades of pink and gold lighting up the clouds.  The Waves The waves were huge when I was there in July. The waves here rise really high above your head and can definitely knock you over if you don’t pay attention to them when swimming.  If you can catch the waves just right, they are also great for body surfing. As always, be respectful of the Indian Ocean.  What Are The Things To Do At Uppuveli Beach? Uppuveli offers a serene alternative to the more crowded southern beaches.  Boasting breathtaking turquoise waters and palm trees swaying in harmony with one another, Uppuveli is a welcoming community that exudes a sense of calm. 1. Marine Adventures At Pigeon Island Marine National Park The number one attraction in Uppuveli is Pigeon Island Marine National Park.  A 20-minute boat ride from the beach will take you to Pigeon Island, a protected sanctuary surrounded by colorful and lively coral reefs.  Pigeon Island is famous as one of the three places in the world where you can see black-tip reef sharks and giant sea turtles in the shallow waters (up to 12 feet).  You may also dive deeper by visiting several local dive shops that operate daily excursions to the Uppuveli Pinnacles and the famous shipwrecks in and around Uppuveli.  Local dive shops also provide excursions between March and September to boat watch for blue whales and pods of spinning dolphins. 2. Visit The Cultural Landmarks Of Swami Rock You may take a short tuk-tuk ride to the Swami Rock Temple located in Trincomalee town.  Swami Rock is perched on a cliff and provides some of the best views of the ocean as you look towards the Koneswaram Hindu Temple, which is located in the middle of the cliff and overlooks Trincomalee Harbor. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and is a great example of intricate Dravidian-style architecture.  In addition to the temple at Swami Rock, you will also see Lover’s Leap, which is nearby and steeped in local folklore. 3. Visit Fort Frederick And Find Spotted Deer On your way to the Koneswaram Temple, be sure to visit Fort Frederick. It is a 17th-century fortress built by the Portuguese.  Fort Frederick today is a peaceful area. It has many spotted deer, and you can see them roaming freely between colonial buildings and massive banyan trees. 4. Kanniya Hot Water Springs For something unique, head inland to the Kanniya Hot Water Springs.  There are seven stone wells here, each producing water at a slightly different temperature.  It’s a traditional site for ritual bathing. Also, people believe that water here has healing properties. Moreover, at Uppuveli Beach, you can have the best dining and drinking experience thanks to places such as Fernando’s Bar, Rice 'n' Curry, and Cafe on the 18th. Also, you will find Wanderers Hostel and other budget-friendly places to stay near the Uppuveli Beach.  When Is The Best Time To Visit Uppuveli Beach?  The best time to visit Uppuveli Beach is between February and August, and July is the peak month.  From August, the ocean starts getting a little rougher.  Moreover, as I have mentioned, it is best to hit the beach when it is still dark. Thus, you can enjoy the magic of the sunrise.  Also, if you want a drink by the sea, 3:30 PM to 4 PM will be the best. As you gulp down some cold Lion Lager, the Sun prepares to go to rest for the day.

BY  Sibashree Jun 20, 2025

The best way to start your day is staring at the rising sun. If some exotic locations for the best sunrises are passing through your mind, let me also remind you of Vietnam. Do you know which are the best places to watch the sunrise in Vietnam?  Before I proceed, let me tell you why sunrises in Vietnam are so beautiful. The cosmic elegance of the Vietnamese sunrise stems from the country's long coastal stretches and naturally scenic settings.  The massive horizons along the coasts create unique sun flares every day when the sun rises here. Similarly, the green landscapes reflecting the nascent sunrays every morning are no less than a visual treat. Why Are There So Many Exotic Places To Watch Sunrise In Vietnam? The mountain peaks here are also mesmerizing. Meanwhile, Vietnam offers many locations where early mornings leave a lasting impression. It includes misty hills and quiet beaches.  This guide highlights the top sunrise spots across the country. Firstly, these places offer some of the most rewarding sights. However, a well-planned vacation package to Vietnam can make these experiences enjoyable. Why Is Vietnam Ideal For Sunrise Views? Vietnam’s geography extends from north to south. It includes the eastern coastline of Southeast Asia. This makes it an ideal destination for sunrise enthusiasts.  The sun rises over the East Sea. It offers clear and wide views. Mountain valleys and beaches provide breathtaking views. Don't miss out on the rice fields. Witnessing sunrise can become one of your most treasured memories of Vietnam. Where Can You See The Best Sunrise In Vietnam? Vietnam has various sunrise spots. Some of them are less explored. Here are some you can include in your next travel itinerary:  1. Mui Ne: Sand Dunes And Sea Views Mui Ne is a coastal town in southern Vietnam. It is known for its red and white dunes. Tourists often visit this area early in the morning. The sand and sky combine to provide a calm and lovely scene. Many Vietnam Travel Agency tours start the day at the Mui Ne dunes. The light breeze and open horizon make this a favorite spot for photographers and early risers. 2. Sapa: Sunrise Over Rice Terraces Sapa's rice terraces and stunning mountain views are popular attractions. It is located in the northern highlands. The fields glow with golden hues. The villages surrounding Fansipan Mountain offer incredible views that are perfect for a sunrise walk. A Vietnam country tour to Sapa usually includes homestays and local treks. It also includes early morning hikes. These make it easier to access the best viewpoints before sunrise. 3. Hoi An: Riverside Reflections At Dawn Hoi An, a typical town with historic streets and attractive riverbanks, is a serene spot for sunrise viewing. The quiet mornings on the Thu Bon River, with boats floating peacefully and old town buildings reflecting in the still water, create a tranquil atmosphere.  You can choose a vacation package to Vietnam that includes the central regions. In this way, you can spend a night in Hoi An just to catch the early morning light. 4. Da Nang: Son Tra Peninsula The Son Tra Peninsula, near Da Nang, offers stunning views. Meanwhile, the best sunrise views can be found from Ban Co Peak and the Linh Ung Pagoda. You can also see the city, sea, and forest all together from this point.  Several Vietnam Travel Agency packages include this spot as part of a day tour from Da Nang. It is often filled with the sounds of birds and cool air. 5. Phu Quoc: Sunrise At The Beach Phu Quoc is an island located in the far south. Its eastern beaches are ideal for watching the sunrise. However, Long Beach, Bai Sao, and Ham Ninh Fishing Village are top places to see the morning sun over the sea. You can book a vacation package to Vietnam that includes beach resorts.  6. Ninh Binh: Mountains And Rivers In The Morning Mist Ninh Binh, also known as Halong Bay, is one of the best places to watch the sunrise in Vietnam. At first, you will encounter the thick morning mist. As the sun rises and the fog begins to clear slowly, you can see the entire frame of the sunrise.  At Ninh Binh, you can also take boat rides along the Ngo Dong River, located in Tam Coc. The rides are seamless, allowing you to relax. However, the sunrise is the best part of early morning Ngo Dong rides.  The sunlight radiating from surrounding cliffs and fields transforms the river into a new canvas every day. If you don’t want to miss such a place to watch the sunrise in Vietnam, consider contacting a travel agency.  They may help you book the 05:00 AM to 07:00 AM boat ride on Ngo Dong. Stay for a while and experience the full arc of the sunrise.  What Time Does The Sun Rise In Vietnam? The winter sunrises in Vietnam are most exotic. Moreover, you need to know about the best places to watch sunrise in Vietnam. That’s why your tour operator’s help is crucial.  The best time to witness the sun in its raw orange form is between 5:30 and 6:30 AM. However, please note that you should check the local time there.  Before visiting, you need to note a few things as well: Usually, there is a thick crowd at the best places to watch sunrise in Vietnam. So arrive at least 30 minutes early to get a front view. The shades and aura of the sunrise from various places will surprise you.  How To Make The Most Of Sunrise Views? Plan most of your sunrise viewing experience. Knowing where to go and how to get there will ensure you don't miss the breathtaking views. Take your hoodies or sweatshirts, as the morning mists are chilly. Interiors may not have food options. So, carry your breakfast essentials or light snacks. Respect the local environment. Avoid littering. Consider booking your trip with a Vietnam Travel Agency. It is to ensure transportation and access to ideal viewpoints.

BY  Sibashree Aug 27, 2026

My shoes were soaked when I reached the viewing platform at Dunhinda Falls.   The trail was dry, but the fine spray drifting off the waterfall made my clothes and shoes wet.   So, no wonder the waterfall got its name from this mist.   Also, enjoying a view of this waterfall will be more delightful with the construction of the viewing center at Dunhinda Falls getting started.   This platform will be a replacement for the 50-year-old existing viewing platform, which has been in a deteriorated condition for a long time.   So, as Dunhinda Falls gets decked out with a new platform, I want to share my story and practical details about a visit to it.   What Is The Meaning Of Dunhinda?   The name Dunhinda comes from Sinhala words for mist or smoke. So, the name is a direct reference to the spray that surrounds the base of the falls.  Dunhinda also has another name, “Bridal Falls.” This name comes from the shape of the cascading water, which looks similar to a bridal veil.   The local traditions suggest that the indigenous Veddha people once inhabited the area.   There is also a story about a giant fern becoming lodged at the top of the falls during the reign of King Rajasinghe, damming the water and flooding Badulla town.  Then, a local hero cleared it to protect the town.   Where Is Dunhinda Falls? Dunhinda Falls is at a distance of around 5 Km from Badulla town in the lower central hills of Sri Lanka's Uva Province.  Badulu Oya, running through Badulla itself, has formed this beautiful waterfall. The height of the waterfall is around 64 meters.   Despite not being among the tallest waterfalls in the country, it is one of the most beautiful in the country.   It stands out with its sheer volume and the dramatic mist that it throws up as it crashes into the pool below.   Overall, this waterfall, at a distance of around 243 km from Colombo and 110 km from Kandy. So, it is a natural stop if heading toward or through Badulla on a hill-country route.   How To Reach Dunhinda Falls  From Badulla Town, you can take a tuk-tuk, taxi, or self-driven car to Dunhinda Falls. I took a tuk-tuk, and it took around 15 minutes to complete the journey.   The tuk-tuk cost me around LKR 400, and the route followed the Bandarawela–Badulla road before turning onto the Mahiyangana road toward "Dunhinda Junction," roughly 5 km from Badulla.   If you are coming from Ella, expect the drive to take under an hour. Also, from Colombo, the Southern Expressway offers the fastest approach before joining the hill-country roads.   Public transport such as buses and tuk-tuks run from Badulla town. However, you will have to wait for a while.   There is a parking area near the trail entrance for those driving themselves.  The Trek To The Falls  The beautiful trek route to the Dunhinda Falls makes it a delightful experience and something beyond a quick photo stop.   From the entrance gate, a forest path of roughly 1 to 1.5 km led to the falls, passing through genuinely lush terrain with birds and butterflies.  Also, I met a few curious monkeys along the way.   The trail was safe, though sections can turn muddy after rain.  So proper footwear matters more here than at some of Sri Lanka's roadside waterfalls.   Along the way, look out for Kuda Dunhinda, or "Small Dunhinda." It is a secondary waterfall visible from a viewpoint on the same path.  What I Found At The Falls? I found an observation platform above the natural pool at the base of the Dunhinda Waterfalls.   Located at the end of the trail, the platform offered a full view of the water dropping through a narrow gap in the rock face before crashing down.  I did not attempt to swim in the pool. The pool has submerged rocks and strong currents in the water.   Also, if you want to have some refreshments, you will find small stalls of snacks, herbal drinks, and simple souvenirs.   Best Photo Spots  The observation platform gives the classic, full-height view of the falls. It is by far the easiest spot to shoot from without getting drenched.   For a slightly different angle, the viewpoint overlooking Kuda Dunhinda partway along the trail offers a quieter composition. Here, you have less spray to contend with.  Overcast mornings tend to produce the most even light for photographing the mist itself.  Harsh sun can blow out the brightest parts of the spray and lose the detail that makes this waterfall distinctive in the first place.  Nearby Attractions Badulla town itself is worth a short visit for its colonial-era architecture and the Muthiyangana Temple, one of the island's older Buddhist sites.   Also, Ella is under an hour away and opens up the wider hill-country circuit, including the Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Falls, and Little Adam's Peak.   For wildlife-focused travelers, Udawalawe National Park is a feasible day trip from Badulla.  Where To Stay Near Dunhinda Falls  Badulla town has a reasonable spread of guesthouses and small hotels.  The options are enough to make it a comfortable overnight base without needing to push on to Ella the same day.   Staying in Badulla also means an early start on the trail before the mid-morning heat and any afternoon rain sets in. It makes for a more pleasant walk through the forest.   Do you want to stay somewhere with more restaurants and traveler infrastructure? Ella is close enough to use as a base instead.  It is ideal for a half-day excursion rather than an overnight stop.  Safety And Practical Notes  The trail, while generally safe and heavily used, does involve some uneven and occasionally muddy footing.  So trainers or light hiking shoes are a better choice than sandals.   Resist the urge to swim in the main pool at the base.  The currents are stronger than they look. There have been drownings here in the past.  That is why the observation platform is the recommended vantage point.   Bring small notes for the entrance fee and any snacks along the trail.  Entrance Fee And Facilities There is an entry fee of LKR 200 payable at the gate before the trail begins. Also, there are basic toilet facilities and a parking area for those arriving by vehicle.   The fee structure is modest. It goes toward maintaining the path and the observation platform at the base.   There is no formal visitor center.  Best Time To Visit The Dunhinda Falls   The waterfall changes its character with the seasons.   June and July are the safest months, when trail conditions are dry.   However, in the wetter months, particularly from around November to March, the falls are at their most dramatic and full.  The trek itself gets muddier.   If your priority is photography and volume, aim for right after the rain. However, if it is a comfortable walk, the mid-year months are the best.  Also, early mornings from 7 AM to 8:30 AM and late afternoons from 4 PM to 5:30 PM are the best.