What Are The Best Places For River Rafting In India? From Spiti To Arunachal Pradesh 

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 18, 2023

Minnesota is one beautiful Upper Midwestern state that never fails to amaze. It has diverse landscapes ranging from forests, prairies, and lakes. In fact, the state is often referred to as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes" due to its numerous lakes. The state is also a land of cultural significance, home to diverse communities and a deep-rooted artistic vibe. Did you know Minneapolis has the second-highest number of theater companies behind only New York City? Speaking of progressive culture, Minnesota is one of the states that made medical marijuana available to residents in the early 2010s. You had access so long as you qualified for a medical marijuana card in Minnesota. Basically, you'll find different aspects of Minnesota quite pleasing. And if you're looking for an escape from life's hustles, you'll love these top X spots for a perfect weekend getaway in Minnesota. 1. The Twin Cities If you love going on a city-exploration rampage to get the most out of your visit, you'll appreciate the sprawling Twin Cities. The metropolitan area of Minneapolis–Saint Paul, two of the state's largest cities, is home to more than half the state population. These are bustling modern cities with numerous attractions, from entertainment sites to world-class dining spots. Galleries, museums, and theaters provide a look into the state's art and culture. Some of the spots to visit for cultural exploration include the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, the Walker Art Center, and the state's oldest art museum, the Minnesota Museum of American Art. 2. Red Wing Small-town charm doesn't get any better than Red Wing in Goodhue County, a town on the Mississippi River. Red Wing offers abundance when it comes to outdoor adventure, art exhibits, and shopping and dining experiences. While in town, relax on the docks on a quiet evening and watch the sunset as boats and yachts bob endlessly on the water. Most of all, explore the town's scenic trails and finish your adventure with the majestic Barn Bluff, which offers epic views of the town. 3. Grand Marais The northern lakeside town of Grand Marais is one of Minnesota's most magical places to spend your weekend getaway. Grand Marais is a tiny postcard-perfect waterfront town that packs a punch. It has no shortage of attractions, from the shores of Lake Superior to the mountainous interior. On your first day, the best places to explore are Artist's Point and Grand Marais Lighthouse. These are picturesque spots on the shores of Lake Superior that capture the beauty of the Great Lake. The lighthouse sits way off onto the lake, making the walk on the breakwater long and exciting. Away from the shores, you can take on the Pincushion Mountain Trail System, perfect for hiking and biking. If you're an avid hiker, you can't miss the opportunity to take on the much longer Gunflint Trail, teeming with scenic lookouts. 4. Detroit Lakes Detroit Lakes, a city northeast of Minneapolis, is where you escape for an action-packed weekend. Tourism is the city's bread and butter, which means you can expect plenty of fun. Go skiing in winter, surfing on the lakes in summer, and mountain biking in the city's extensive wilderness. With hundreds of lakes calling Detroit Lakes home, you will have endless shorelines to explore. And when you're exhausted, partake in the city's festivities because it holds plenty of events and festivals every year. 5. Rochester If you're looking for a big and vibrant city besides Minneapolis and St. Paul, head to Rochester in the southeast portion of the state. Rochester boasts many exciting attractions, from thousands of park acres and miles of paved trails to charming dining spots and a lively art scene. Visit the beautiful waterfront downtown, where the Rochester Art Center and the renowned Mayo Civic Center are located. If you visit anywhere between June and August, you'll love the outdoor market and live entertainment occurring weekly in downtown Rochester. You'll find the scene unforgettable, from the food to the music. Final Thoughts You won't regret spending your weekend getaway in Minnesota because there are just too many unique places to explore. The diverse range of experiences offers something for everyone regardless of what you're into. Whether you like outdoor adventures or urban excursions, there's something for you. Read Also: Planning A Beach Holiday In 2023? Here Are 5 Things To Buy In Advance

BY  Sibashree Mar 11, 2026

My trip to Kandy was one of the best cultural experiences I had in Sri Lanka. From Kandy, I decided to further go for a wildlife safari in Kaudulla National Park.   I certainly could not miss watching the elephants, and more so, because unlike many rehabilitation centers, the elephants are not chained at the Kaudulla National Park.   Also, I was staying at Habarana, which is very close to the national park. So, traveling was easy for me.   Hi, in today’s guide, I will talk about my encounters with the most intelligent and empathetic animals in the world, the elephants in Sri Lanka.   However, before that,  I will share some essential details about visiting the National Park.    Where Is The Kaudulla National Park?   The Kaudulla National Park is located in the Polonnaruwa District of Sri Lanka. It is located at a distance of around 197 km from the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo.   Furthermore, the distance between Kandy and the Kaudulla National Park is around 122 km. Kandy, in the central province, is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.   Also, the major gateway near the Kaudulla National Park is Habarana in the Anuradhapura District. The distance between these two places is around 28 km.   In addition, thanks to the proximity to Habarana, the Kaudulla National Park is close to national parks such as the Kalawewa National Park and cultural and historical attractions such as the Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala Rock, and the Ritigara Forest Monastery.   How To Reach The Kaudulla National Park?   The Kaudulla National Park is well-connected to many major airports in Sri Lanka. However, the Sigiriya (GIU) Airport is the closest to the National Park, and the travel time from the airport to the national park is around 53 minutes.   The second-closest airport is Trincomalee, which is around 55 km away.   Also, if you are traveling from the Colombo Airport, around 157 km away, you have to first reach Habarana, and then you can travel to the Kaudulla National Park.   How To Reach The Kaudulla National Park From Habarana?   Buses, taxis, and tuk-tuks are easily available from Habarana to Kaudulla National Park. You will get a bus once a day from Habarana, and the bus to Gayola is run by the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB ICT).   It takes around 19 minutes to cover the journey. Moreover, you can contact +94 112 581 120 to know about the journey and ticket prices.   Furthermore, you will get a private taxi from Habarana, and the cost is around INR 240 or 680 LKR.   What Is The Best Time To Visit The Kaudulla National Park?  August to December, or the dry season, is the best time to visit the Kaudulla National Park.   It is the best season because the elephants gather here in the dry season in search of water. They migrate here from the nearby national parks.   Furthermore, in a day, early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit the national park, as wildlife sightings are at their maximum in these hours.   What Are The Kaudulla National Park Ticket Prices And Hours?  The Kaudulla National Park remains open from 6 AM to 6:30 PM. However, safaris in the national park are conducted early in the morning and late in the afternoon.   The safari tour tickets in this national park start from $95.   Moreover, once you pay for the safari tour, the entry fee to the park is also included. The ticket also includes a free pick up and drop off to and from the hotels of Minneriya, Habarana, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, and Kandalama.   Kaudulla National Park Jeep Safari Price And Timings  Safari Tours Timings Tour Price (5 PAX) Kaudulla Evening Safari 1 PM to 3:30 PM $95 for Adults $30 for Children (6-11 Years) Free for Children Under 5 Years  Kaudulla Morning Safari 6 AM to 9 AM $95 for Adults $30 for Children (6-11 Years) Free for Children Under 5 Years  Kaudulla & Minneriya Full-day Safari 6 AM to 7:30 AM $190  You can call the Kaudulla National Park contact number, +94776487757, to know more details about the safari ticket prices.   My Experience On The Kaudulla National Park Elephant Safari   The jeep drove down the extensive stretch of dirt road, and we entered the national park. Within minutes, our first encounter with the wildlife was a jackal.   As we continued through the main road, Kumar, our guide, kept showing us different monkeys, birds, and lizards.   I was loving the experience, apart from the dodges we had to do to get away from the low-lying branches of the trees.   After a drive for a while through the dense forest, we finally reached the grassland, and the Kaudulla Wewa Lake was the first major stop on the way.   1. Kaudulla Wewa Lake  After reaching the Kaudulla Wewa Lake, the first thing that caught my eye was the branch of an old tree. It resembled a telegraph pole, and one member of our safari group also mistook it for the same.   Furthermore, a majestic sea eagle was sitting on its top.   Along with this bird with its regal blue plumage, we also spotted storks, peacocks, and egrets.    Moreover, there was a buffalo that was having its munch time, and it was occasionally playing host to the tiny birds who were sitting on its back and head, making the entire scenario appear very playful.   2. Spotting The Elephants: The Dream Come True Moment   We were in the middle of the safari tour, and we were dying to see a glimpse of the majestic grey creatures.   Then suddenly, we reached an isolated wooded area where scores of elephants were waiting for us.   Also, they were busy having a bath, playing, rolling in the mud, and grazing. I had goosebumps as they are truly my spirit animals.    So, our jeep was around 20 meters away from them, and from a safe distance, each of us in the jeep captured as many photos as possible.   Moreover, the best thing was that the group had many calves, and it was nice to see them interacting with their mothers.   Animal Welfare In The Kaudulla National Park  Let’s be honest! I visited the Kaudulla National Park with some preconceived notions about animal welfare.   There are many videos and images on the internet showing how solitary animals such as leopards are targeted by photographers and safari tour conductors.   Moreover, you cannot surround a solitary creature with 20 jeeps and claim the preservation of animal welfare.   However, during my safari tour, I did not notice such a thing. The number of jeeps was decent, and each of the jeeps maintained a safe distance from the animals.   Moreover, the elephants were not chained, and they were roaming freely between the Kaudulla Park and other neighboring parks.   What Are The Other National Parks To Visit Near The Kaudulla National Park?   Along with the Kaudulla National Park, Habarana is also the gateway to the Minneriya and Kalawewa national parks.   1. Minneriya National Park   You can reach the Minneriya National Park with a short drive from the east of the Habarana town.   However, as I have already mentioned, you can take a combined safari tour of the Kaudulla National Park and Minneriya National Park.   Moreover, this national park, covering 90 square kilometers, has elephants and many other wildlife.   2. Kalawewa National Park   The Kalawewa National Park is home to the rare breed of tusked elephants in Sri Lanka.   Also, you have to take a drive of around 45 minutes west of Habaraba to visit the Kalawewa National Park.   Moreover, December to March is the best season to visit this national park.  

BY  Sharmita Nov 20, 2016

Traveling comes with different purposes for every enthusiast. For some, it’s the act of rejuvenation, and for others, it is an exercise to connect to the soul. However, there are some adventurous souls who always seek activities or events that give them an adrenaline rush. If you are one of them, you must be looking for places of adventure in the world.   Witness the most beautiful destinations in this guide and make your choice!  The MOST Beautiful Places of Adventure in the World  You don’t always need to climb Mount Everest or make a trip to something as special as Machu Picchu to appease your adventurous soul.   Some lesser-known places of adventure can offer you the thrill you have been looking for.   1. Stairway to Heaven, Iceland:  About 24 km (about 14.91 mi) west of Erfoud town lies a magical stairway that the locals have termed the “Stairway to Heaven.”   The stairway looks more magnificent, lying in sunbathed glory during sunrise and sunset. The way the stairway lies between the magnanimous and green mountains of Iceland sounds like a passage leading straight to heaven.   Hiking amidst waterfalls and glacier walks are some popular adventurous activities here.   2. River of Flowers, Keukenhof in Holland:  Commonly known as the Garden of Europe, it’s one of the biggest flower gardens on the globe.   The beautiful corner of paradise was named after it provided kitchen herbs to the castle of Jacqueline, a Countess of Hainaut in the 15th century. In Dutch, Keukenhof means a kitchen garden.   About 7 million flower bulbs are planted manually1, and the garden harbors an extensive river of tulips running across like a stream of water all around the area. Approximately forty minutes from Amsterdam, the Tulip Spell in Holland is the best to visit in April.   You can take a ride on the whisper boat cruises in the garden or enjoy a fun-filled picnic.   3. The Silver Forest Aspen in Colorado:  The Rocky Mountain area of Aspen draws people from around the globe to see the beguiling Silver Forest that comprises silver birch trees, termed shade-intolerant species. These trees require brim sunlight without competition for food, space, and sunlight.   The trees are the highlight of the autumn spell, with golden and silvery colors strewn around the forest. It’s just too magnanimous to miss such a place. Taking a walk through the forest itself is an adventure and an experience to remember.   4. The Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, New Zealand:  The Waitomo Caves attraction is best known for its massive population of glowworm species. This species of worm is found particularly in New Zealand. They’re around the size of an average mosquito and glow in the dark. Their Larvae glow to lure prey into their threads, possibly luring them to believe they are outdoors.   Since the roof of the cave is surrounded by larvae, does it look like a glittering sky at night? The hungry larva usually glows brighter than the ones that have just fed. Amazing as it may sound, a visit to Waitomo caves involves organized tours, including a boat ride beneath the glowworm, which is magical!  5. Rottenburg Village, Germany:  Rottenburg is a gleeful and beautiful town located in the Franconia area of Bavaria in Germany. It is a well-kept medieval old town, which is a destination for visitors from all walks of the world.   The city is a common representation of German enchantment. How can you miss seeing this romantic place?   In addition, artists have taken inspiration from this village's exclusive location, whose towers and 42 skyline gates are unmistakable.   Lying amidst magnificent, unspoiled countryside with a walkable town wall with medieval fortifications enclosing the historic center, the village, with its artistic treasures and winding alleyways, is the perfect place to relax. However, if you are willing to spend a significant time in this place, you need to go for immigration assistance. 6. Shifen Waterfall, Taiwan:  A scenic waterfall situated in Pingxi District, Taipei City in Taiwan, is the most majestic waterfall in Taiwan. The waterfall’s height of 20 meters by 40 meters in breadth makes it the widest waterfall in Taiwan.  It’s a cascade-style fall in the same direction and rock tilted in the opposite. A famous tourist destination, Shifen Falls is unique since it comprises other waterfalls coming together to form a fantastic view. Moreover, people are so helpful - you will always find help. I found the right assistance for starting a business here and now I’m a successful travel business owner who works from literally anywhere in the world. 7. Athabasca Falls, Canada:  Athabasca Waterfall is in Jasper Park on the upper Athabasca River, about 35 kilometers (about 21.75 mi) south of Jasper, in Canada. It’s one of the most powerful falls in Canada and the most beautiful places of adventure in the world.   Moreover, it is a major tourist stopover along the Icefields Parkway. It’s always a busy place on mid-summer days. The appropriate time for its full beauty is at dusk, during which the fall looks like a beautiful blue orb dancing alongside the nearby golden cliffs.  8. Red Beach, China:  Sand is the first thing that rings into your mind when you start thinking of beaches. However, this isn’t the case with Panjin Red Beach. The beach is red with no sand covering at all. This phenomenon emanates from Sueda – seaweed.   The beach is in the reed marsh and is the biggest wetland in the world, hosting the complete ecosystem ever found. The beach has become a habitat for over 250 species of birds and 399 species of wild animals.   The area is also known as the home of cranes since you can find Black Beaked Gulls and the Endangered Cranes”. Panjin Red Beach is one of those destinations that are hard to believe exist!  9. Kauai, Hawaii:  Kauai Island is in the mid-Pacific region of the Hawaiian archipelago. It has the nickname of “Garden Isle” due to the tropical rainforest surrounding much of its area.   The dramatic pinnacles, together with the cliffs of its Na Pali, have served as a backdrop for Hollywood films, while the 10-mile Waimea Canyon, together with the Nounou Trails cutting across the Giant Ridge, are wandering destinations. However, the most attractive destination is Kauai Falls, which resembles a silky stream of water gliding down to a fascinating array!  10. The Rolling Hills, Czech Republic:  The Rolling Hills in the Czech Republic are a spectacle to look at. A scenic view of what looks like a carpeted hill is a mesmerizing view you can experience once in a lifetime.  From here, you can visit the St. Barbara's chapel. Start your day early if you want to visit the Rolling Hills, as the area looks the best in Sunlight.   11. National Park, Utah:  You can forge new memories at the fiery red rock while embracing your most adventurous part of Utah’s national park, depending on whether such side likes exploring new terrain on short nature hikes, pedaling canyon rims, or navigating slot canyons.   Utah’s national park features the most amazing landscapes in the globe. Golden arches cover the region with a spectacular view you cannot afford to miss.  Bon Voyage!  While visiting the places of adventure in the world, you must be particular about your travel essentials. Your travel itinerary will include a lot of outdoor activities. So, you must choose your travel gear, boots, and outfits correctly. In addition, you have to carry essential medicines and protein bars.  However, the trick here is to only carry the things you need and keep your bag light. You even need to choose your backpack or duffle bag that can fulfill your traveling needs.