From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego

BY  Sibashree Feb 18, 2026

After exploring the Tamil culture and the Hindu temples of Jaffna, it was time to visit an ancient and secluded Buddhist meditation retreat in Sri Lanka.  It has stone ruins from the 1st century BC, and it was once home to the Pamsukulika Sect of monks, who were known for their meditation-based and secluded lives in the forest.  Moreover, the Ritigala Forest Monastery has an association with the stories of the Ramayana. Also, this monastery is inside the Ritigala Forest Reserve. So, it is a place where history, spirituality, and wildlife await you.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about how I climbed up the stone steps to reach the Ritigala Monastery in Sri Lanka, the history, legends, and the main attractions of visiting the ancient monastery today.  I will also talk about the transportation options.  Where Is Ritigala Forest Monastery? Sri Lanka maybe one of the cheapest places to travel in the world. However, its natural beauty and the cultural and historical richness are matchless. The Ritigala Forest Monastery is one of the hidden gems in Sri Lanka.  The Ritigala monastery is located across the mountain of Ritigala. The mountain of Ritigala is the highest mountain in the dry northern region of Sri Lanka.  It is close to Harbarana, which is again the epicenter of the cultural triangle, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple, and Polonnaruwa. It is also the gateway to many wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka.  The distance between Harbarana and the Ritigara mountain is around 21 km. Other important locations near the mountain are Anuradhapura, which is at a distance of 42 km, and Sigiriya, at a distance of 32 km.  Furthermore, the Ritigala Forest Monastery is inside the Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve.  However, remember one thing. As I mentioned in my Jaffna, Sri Lanka, travel guide, you have to rely on the locals when you are exploring the cultural landmarks or a secluded place like the Ritigala Forest Monastery.  You cannot trust Google Maps completely for locating the Ritigara mountains and monastery.  How To Reach The Ritigala Forest Monastery?  Harbarana was the base for my road trip to the Ritigara mountain and trekking further.  1. Reaching Harbarana From The Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) I took a flight to the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). The distance between the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and Habarana is around 151 km. You can take a car rental for the entire journey. However, being a fan of the LowDownUnder Travel, I chose a different path.  After reaching the Bandaranaike International Airport, I took a taxi to Gampaha and then took a train to Harbarana. The ticket cost me around INR 400, and the travel time was around 4 hours and 40 minutes.  The Sri Lankan Railways runs two trains daily from Gampaha to Habarana.  Other airports close to Harbarana are Sigiriya Airport (18 minutes), Kandy Airport (2 hours), and Trincomalee (1 hour and 36 minutes).  2. From Harbarana To The Ritigara Mountain  From Harbarana, I took a taxi to reach Ritigara. It cost around INR 420, and the travel time was around 35-40 minutes.  You can also reserve a car or tuk-tuk to take you to the mountains, wait for you at the entrance gate, and take you back home when you are done trekking. In such cases, the reserve cost will be around INR 1000-1200.  The route from Harbarana to Ritigara was beautiful. My cab driver pointed out the local farming practices and the land on the way.  It was a fulfilling experience, and as Jaffna has a unique food scene based on its local agricultural practices, the food habits of this northern-central region of Sri Lanka. Red rice, jackfruit curry, and river fish are the staples here.   Also, my driver told me to keep my eyes open to spot elephants. However, I was not lucky enough to spot my favorite animal. I noticed some fresh dung in the road, though.  Furthermore, when the car came off the main road, the ride became a little bumpy. The route from here to the Ritigara mountain was a combination of dirt tracks and semi-paved roads.  Finally, I reached the entrance of Ritigara and purchased my ticket. The ticket cost me around INR 450, and I even got a guide for INR 1200. What Is The History Of Ritigala Forest Monastery?  The history of the Ritigala Forest Monastery goes back to the 1st century BC. You will find here more than 70 rock caves, the 9th-century meditation spots of the "Pansukulika” monks, and unadorned stone pathways.  Here is a brief historical timeline of the Ritigala Forest Monastery.  1. Establishment Of The Ritigara Forest Site For Monks Buddhist monks came here and started living in the sacred mountains in the 1st century BC. There were more than 70 caves where monks started meditating in solitude.  Even today, there are many rock inscriptions from which we can learn about how many patrons helped to build and maintain the site, which was home to monks who left the luxury of monasteries and used to meditate in the caves.  2. Receiving Royal Patronage This site received adequate royal patronage, and from the inscriptions, we especially get to know about King Pandukabhaya.  He founded Anuradhapura and built a reservoir at the base of the mountain for the hermits here in the 4th century BC.  3. Building Of The Pansukulika Sect Monastery King Sena I built the Ritigara Monastery in 833, and it was meant for the Pansukulikas or monks in rag robes.  These monks practiced the highest form of asceticism, and they were on a mission to revive the simple teachings of Lord Buddha.  4. The Decline Of The Pansukulika Sect And The Monastery  From the 9th to the 11th century, the Ritigala Forest Monastery and the Pansukulika Sect of monks enjoyed immense glory.  However, with increasing donations and the monks getting inclined toward what they earlier rejected, the core philosophy of the sect was lost.  Two rival sub-sects were formed within the Pansukulika Sect. Finally, King Vijayabahu I confiscated their extensive holdings in 1070-1110 CE as a part of a Buddhist monastic reform.  5. Abandonment And Discovery Of The Ancient Monastery Despite the royal patronage, the Ritigara Forest Monastery was abandoned around the 10th to 12th centuries due to the Chola invasions.  It was an unprotected ruin until James Mantell, the British colonial surveyor, saw the ruins while climbing up the mountain.  Then, he drew the attention of H.C.P. Bell, the first Archaeological Commissioner of Ceylon. He understood the historical and religious importance of the place and expanded it extensively in 1893.  Finally, in 1941, the 1528 hectares of the forest area, including the ruins, were designated as a Strict Nature Reserve.  Today, the conservation efforts strike a balance between the ecological and archaeological preservation of the monastery and the site.  Design And Engineering Of The Ritigala Forest Monastery: The Incredible Ruin The monastery does not look like the traditional stupas. Here, you will find interconnected stones, paved pathways, and stone bridges.  Furthermore, there are bathing areas like the famous Banda Pokuna.  The most unique thing about the Ritigara Monastery is that here you will not find any Bodhi Tree or any Buddha statue.  It is a place where you can walk, meditate, and contemplate.  You may call it a failed attempt to revive the radical simplicity of Buddhism, but for every seeker, it will always be a place to introspect and connect to a higher energy.  I had goosebumps the moment I entered the monastery. Let’s delve deeper into the unique architecture of the monastery.  1. The Padhanaghara And Stone Pathways  The ruins of the Ritigala Forest Monastery cover an area of around 120 acres. You will see around 50 distinct meditation houses or Padhanaghara in the area.  Inside each meditation house, you will find two raised platforms in the east-west direction, and those were made of stone. A small maot surrounded the platforms, and a small stone bridge connected the platforms.  Probably, these structures were used for some rituals or meditation purposes.  Interlinking stone pathways connect these meditation houses. These pathways are 1.5 meters in width, and the width is consistent as the pathways ascend the slope. These pathways also have circular intersections.  2. Water Management System, The water management system in Ritigala Forest Monastery was sophisticated. Banda Pokuna and Kumbuk Wewa, these twin ponds were carved from rocks.  Furthermore, I found a large stone trough in the courtyard, which was used for cooking food.  Also, I saw the ruins of the monastery hospital and stone mortars, which were used to grind and prepare herbal medicines.  Moreover, the monastery did not have any residential complex. The monks lived and meditated in the caves.  However, there were urinal stones, which were the only amenities or the luxury the monks enjoyed in this austere setup.  What Is The Legend Of The Ritigala Forest Monastery?  The Ritigala mountain has a connection to the Hindu mythology, the Ramayana. Attacked by Ravana, Lakshama, the brother of Lord Ramachandra, became unconscious on the battlefield.  Lord Hanuman, on Lord Rama’s command, went to fetch a life-saving medicinal herb from the Dronagiri. However, he forgot the name of the herb and carried the entire mountain on his shoulder.  When he was crossing the Palk Strait, five segments of the mountain fell from his grasp. The biggest fragment fell on the site of the Ritigara Mountain.  Now, you may not believe the legend of the Ritigala Mountain. However, the presence of various medicinal plants in the mountains keeps the myth alive.  Moreover, among the 417 species of plants here, around 96 varieties are for medicinal purposes. Moreover, the northern peaks have names such as the Wannati-kanda and Aushada-kanda.  Climbing To The Ritigala Forest Monastery In Sri Lanka  Climbing up to the Ritigara Forest Monastery was a free-flowing experience. There are many things to see, but more to feel.  Here is how I explored the ruins.  1. The Bathing Pond  As I left the ticket counter behind, I found the first ruin. I took the stone steps to visit a massive bathing area.  You have to be careful with the steps here, as they are cracks and have overgrown tree roots.  Large trees have grown in the bathing area now. However, you can still understand its massive scale.  2. A Winding Stone Path And Ruins Of The Monastery The winding stone pathway took me through various ruins, and they stood like the blueprints from a bygone era.  The most striking one among them was the ruins of the hospital. It still had a sunken bath and grinding stones for preparing medicines.  As I climbed up, I found the meditation platforms, big multi-chambered rooms, and urinals.  3. The Large Pavilion With Columns  I found a large pavilion here with big columns. However, the more intriguing was the Big Tree behind the ruin.  It is so massive that its ground roots have created a labyrinth. The road seems to fizzle out at this stage. However, my gut instinct said that there is something more.  4. The Hidden Ruin  My guide was not happy with me for continuing further. As I headed down, after the initial disappointment of landing on the forest floor, I found another ruin.  There was a stone bridge, and it took me to a promontory with a square structure. It was the ruins of the library that had many precious manuscripts.  The view from the promontory was amazing.  It is a shame that most trekkers miss it, as the signs are not adequate and often hidden in the overgrown bushes. Furthermore, most of them are only in the Sinhalese language, which only locals can read.  However, I used the absence of signboards to my advantage.  Practical Tips For A Visit To The Ritigara Forest Monastery  If you are traveling with your partner or in a group, you must reserve a tuk-tuk or car to bring you back. You may not get a passing traffic. I took the risk as it was a solo adventure.  You have to carry snacks and water. Wear sunscreen and carry insect repellents.  You will find a toilet at the entrance of the ruins. I did not use it. So, I am not sure about the condition or the amenities available.  Ritigala Forest Monastery: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Ritigala Forest Monastery. 1. How Much Time Is Needed At Ritigala? Trekking the Ritigala Forest Monastery is going to take around 2 hours. So, overall, you will at least need 3 hours in Ritigala. Trekking up the route is easy. However, walking through the cracked stone steps can be challenging.Also, signboards are scarce and incomprehensible on the route. So, you must take a local guide.  2. Where To Stay Near The Ritigala Forest Monastery? I stayed at Habarana, and the name of my hostel was The Lake Breeze. The tariff for the hostel was around INR 2000. The amenities were basic, with fans, Wi-Fi, and mosquito nets.  3. Is Taking A Tour Of Ritigala Forest Monastery Worth It? Yes, taking a tour of the Ritigala Forest Monastery is absolutely worth it. Here, you will find the ruins of the 1st century BC, and it is great for anyone with a keen interest in the history and evolution of Buddhism. Furthermore, the ambiance of the ruins is introspective and meditative. Moreover, you can easily reserve a car or tuk-tuk to reach the base of the Ritigara Mountain and then start your trek for 1.5 to 2 hours. 

BY  Ankita Feb 12, 2024

E-bikes are changing the world of outdoor adventures, and hunting is no exception. These electric bikes are not just a fad; they're a revolution in how hunters approach their sport. Quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly, e-bikes offer a unique blend of technology and tradition. This article explores the essential things every hunter should know about using e-bikes, from the benefits they bring to the hunt to choosing the right model for your needs. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, understanding the role of e-bikes can transform your hunting experience. Advantages Of Using E-Bikes For Hunting E-bikes come with several advantages that make them a fantastic choice for hunting. Firstly, they are much quieter than traditional vehicles, which is crucial for hunting. The less noise you make, the less likely you are to startle your prey. This stealth aspect gives hunters a significant advantage in the field. Another benefit is their environmental friendliness. E-bikes don't emit fumes like gas-powered vehicles, making them a more sustainable option for the environmentally conscious hunter. Additionally, they can handle various terrains, from muddy paths to rocky trails, which is often required in the wilderness. Choosing The Right E-Bike For Hunting Selecting the right e-bike for hunting requires a lot of considerations. The e-bike should have a robust load capacity to carry not just the hunter but also their gear and potentially their game. Durability is another key factor. Hunting terrains can be challenging, and your e-bike needs to withstand rough conditions. Look for models specifically designed for off-road use, with sturdy frames and reliable components. When it comes to the specifics, understanding the types of electric bike suspensions is crucial. Suspension systems play a vital role in ride comfort and control, especially on uneven terrains typical in hunting areas. A good suspension system will absorb shocks and provide a smoother ride, which is essential when traversing through the woods or even mountains. Various models are available in the market, each with different features suited for hunting. Some have camouflage designs to blend in with the environment, while others focus on enhanced battery life and load capacity. Researching and comparing different models is key to finding the e-bike that meets your hunting needs. Legal Considerations And Regulations Before you head out on your e-bike hunting adventure, it's important to be aware of the legal aspects. Laws and regulations regarding e-bike use can vary significantly from one region to another. Some areas may have specific rules about where and how you can use e-bikes, especially on public lands or in wildlife reserves. In some places, you might need a license or registration to use an e-bike, just like any other vehicle. It's essential to check the local regulations before planning your hunting trip. Moreover, riders and hunters must respect wildlife and environmental laws. These rules are in place to protect the natural habitat and ensure that hunting remains a sustainable activity for future generations. Safety Tips While Using E-Bikes For Hunting Safety should always be a top priority when using e-bikes, especially in hunting scenarios. First and foremost, wearing a helmet is necessary to protect you in the event of a fall or crash. Also, consider wearing visibility vests, particularly if you're hunting in areas shared with other outdoor enthusiasts. This helps ensure you're visible to others, reducing the risk of accidents. When riding through rough terrains, keep your speed at a manageable level. It's easy to get carried away with the power of an e-bike, but safety comes first. Be particularly cautious on wet or uneven trails to avoid slips and falls. Similarly, stay aware of your surroundings and be prepared for unexpected wildlife encounters. Animals can be unpredictable, so knowing how to react is essential for your safety. Maximizing Battery Life And Efficiency To get the most out of your e-bike's battery life, start with a full charge before heading out. If possible, carry a spare battery or a portable charger for longer trips. You can also conserve battery life by using the pedal-assist feature. Pedal more in easier terrains and save the battery for challenging parts of your journey. Maintaining your e-bike is key to ensuring it runs efficiently. Regular maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming big problems. Keep an eye on tire pressure, brake pads, and the chain. Proper upkeep not only extends the life of your e-bike but also ensures it performs at its best when you need it. Charging your e-bike during a long hunting trip can be challenging. If you're camping, consider solar chargers as an eco-friendly option. Planning your route with charging points in mind is another strategy to ensure your e-bike is always ready to go. Packing And Transportation Considerations Transporting your e-bike to your hunting location requires some planning. If you're driving, you might need a bike rack. Make sure the rack is sturdy enough to handle the weight of an e-bike, which is typically heavier than a regular bike. When packing your e-bike, remove any detachable parts like batteries or LCDs to prevent damage during transit. Balancing your load is key when using an e-bike for hunting. You'll likely be carrying additional gear like weapons, ammunition, and possibly camping equipment. Ensure your e-bike has the necessary carrying capacity, and use saddlebags or panniers to distribute the weight evenly. This not only makes your ride more stable but also prevents strain on the bike. Efficient packing is all about what you bring on your hunting trip. Pack only the essentials to avoid unnecessary weight. Tools for minor repairs, a first-aid kit, and enough water and food are must-haves. Remember, the more efficiently you pack, the more enjoyable your ride and hunting experience will be. E-Bike Maintenance After each trip, clean your e-bike to remove any dirt or debris. Pay special attention to the chain, gears, and brakes. These components can suffer the most from rough terrain and require regular checks and lubrication. Store your e-bike in a dry, cool place to protect it from the elements. If you're not going to use it for a while, make sure the battery is charged to about 50% to maintain its health. Periodic service from a professional can also go a long way in extending the life of your e-bike. Wrapping Up E-bikes are a fantastic tool for modern hunters. They offer a quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly way to navigate hunting terrains. Choosing the right e-bike involves considering factors like battery life, load capacity, and durability. Remember to always prioritize safety and abide by local laws and regulations. Lastly, maximizing battery life, packing efficiently, and maintaining your e-bike will also enhance your hunting experience. Read Also : Planning A Trip to Las Vegas, USA? Read this blog first 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip What Can You Expect from the New Year’s in Mexico

BY  Arnab May 23, 2023

Imagine waking up to the sight of radiant red cliffs against a clear blue sky, the thrill of walking in the footsteps of dinosaurs, the taste of unique local dishes, and the serene ambiance of historic pioneer buildings. It isn't a dream; this is St. George, Utah. Nestled in the state's southwest corner, St. George is a vibrant city that merges natural beauty with rich history and culture, all wrapped up in a warm, inviting community. Boasting a sunny climate all year round, it's no wonder this desert gem is a favorite among travelers. What makes St. George a must-visit destination? Let's embark on this exciting journey together to uncover the many charms of this delightful city. The Natural Splendor of St. George St. George, a mecca for nature lovers, is a gateway to Utah's majestic national parks - Zion and Bryce. The awe-inspiring landscapes of these parks, with their dramatic cliffs, expansive plateaus, intricate canyons, and the ever-changing hues of the sky, are a sight to behold. Every sunrise and sunset, painting the red rocks with gold and pink shades is a spectacle. Don't miss the star-studded night sky that will make you feel one with the universe. In addition to these national parks, St. George is home to the surreal Snow Canyon State Park, where you can marvel at petrified dunes and old lava flows. This park is a perfect spot for adventurers for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or even horseback riding. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will find it equally enthralling to spot the native species in their natural habitat. After an action-packed day, St. George vacation rentals offer an ideal retreat with home-like comfort and a hint of luxury. Dive into History and Culture History is there in every corner of St. George. This city has borne witness to times as ancient as the age of dinosaurs and as recent as the era of pioneers. Start your journey back in time at the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site. You'll find real dinosaur tracks preserved in stone, fossilized remains, and informative exhibits that give a sneak peek into the prehistoric era. Continue your exploration at the Pioneer Courthouse, one of the oldest standing buildings in the city. This courthouse showcases the city's architectural prowess and offers insights into the administrative setup of the past. Nearby, the Brigham Young Winter Home provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the pioneers. However, cultural exploration doesn't stop at history. St. George also boasts a vibrant arts scene with numerous art museums, galleries, and music festivals. Attend a live performance at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre or visit the numerous art galleries scattered throughout the city. Delving into the Culinary Delights of St. George Food in St. George is more than a necessity.  There are several traditional dishes along with recent culinary delights. Hence, St. George caters to every palette. You will come across the authentic flavors of the Southwest, fresh farm-to-table meals, along with locally-made pastries for the sweet tooth. You can enjoy an amazing coffee culture and various breweries to relax in. St. George offers local cooking classes and food tours. Hence, you can learn more about its culinary history, meet local chefs, and pick up some new cooking tricks. Experiencing the Heart of St. George: The Community The heart of St. George lies not just in its natural beauty or historical landmarks but in its warm and welcoming community. It is a city where people greet each other with smiles, community celebrations are a way of life, and strangers quickly become friends. From farmers' markets bursting with fresh produce and locally made crafts to festivals that bring the streets to life with music, dance, and food, there's an infectious sense of community spirit. Wander through the city's historic downtown district, where local shops offer everything from unique handicrafts to stylish clothing. Many family-owned shops reflect the city's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the new. And as you explore, take the time to chat with the locals – their stories, tips, and warm hospitality add an unforgettable personal touch to the St. George experience. This spirit of friendliness extends to local businesses too. Whether it's a café owner remembering your coffee preference or a shopkeeper recommending their favorite hiking trail, the people of St. George make you feel at home in their city. Practical Information: What You Need to Know When planning your trip, it's essential to consider that St. George enjoys a unique desert climate. With mild winters perfect for exploring and hot summers ideal for water-based activities at Sand Hollow State Park, there's never a bad time to visit. The city is also well connected by road. It has its airport, making it easily accessible no matter where you're coming from. And while St. George is generally safe, it's always good to take the usual travel precautions like keeping your belongings secure and aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring the more secluded natural areas. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. For instance, understanding the etiquette for visiting historical sites and local businesses can help you connect better with the local culture. Responsible Travel: Respecting and Preserving St. George Lastly, let's not forget our responsibility as travelers to respect and preserve the places we visit. St. George is a city that thrives on its natural beauty and community spirit, and we must ensure that these remain untouched. Following simple, sustainable travel practices, like carrying a reusable water bottle, exploring the city on foot or by bike, or even participating in a local cleanup drive, can help reduce our environmental footprint. Be mindful of the natural habitats you visit, and remember to leave no trace behind. The wildlife and natural surroundings are vital to St. George's charm, so let's ensure our interaction with them is respectful and minimally invasive. Remember to use marked trails, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and never remove natural objects from parks. Supporting local businesses is another great way to practice responsible tourism. Whenever you dine at a locally owned restaurant, shop at a local boutique, or hire a local guide, you contribute to St. George's vibrant community spirit and economy. Conclusion: Prepping for Your St. George Adventure As we wrap up our virtual tour, we hope you're as excited about visiting St. George as we are about sharing it with you. From its captivating landscapes and rich history to its diverse food scene and warm community, St. George is a destination that promises memorable experiences at every turn. Remember, the best trips are those that not only entertain but also educate and inspire. So, pack your bags, book your St. George vacation rental, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories. The red canyons, dinosaur tracks, delectable meals, and friendly locals of St. George are all waiting to share their stories with you. Here's to happy travels and exploring the unexplored! Read Also: Tips To Make Your Vacation In Gatlinburg More Enjoyable The Blue Train: A Luxurious Expedition Across South Africa Top 5 Best Camping Spots In The United States