Top 5 Best Camping Spots In The United States

BY  Ankita Nov 21, 2023

For those who love venturing off the beaten path to experience the wonders that Mother Nature has to offer, your success and your safety in enjoying your next adventure will depend on the essentials you pack to carry with you. While enjoying the wind and sun or exploring a new destination can be exciting, gratifying, and even relaxing, these emotions can quickly turn into worry, fear, and exhaustion if you’re unprepared. Selecting what is essential to your well-being on the move can be challenging, whether planning a six-month, six-day, or six-hour adventure, mainly if you have limited packing space. Planning is the key to your success. Phone  It’s impossible nowadays to even think of going somewhere without your smartphone. You don’t want to leave home without yours. Consider including a universal travel adapter depending on your destination and acquiring a local SIM card to remain connected in the event of an emergency or if you want to enjoy a bit of entertainment while on the go. Portable Charger While a charger and power bank may be among your best options if you’ll be off the grid for a while, carrying an extra battery is one of the top tips to follow when adventuring. A spare battery can be beneficial, especially for your phone as well as a camera or laptop, if you bring these along. Lots of things can go wrong, and the unexpected is always to be expected. You may become lost, need help, contact your family, or request medical assistance, and your phone may be your only lifeline to civilization. Pack that extra battery. Maps If you travel to a remote location, a phone or the internet may not be viable tools. Include physical maps, a GPS device, or even a basic compass among your adventure essentials to keep you on track. Water And Snacks Snacks like nuts and seeds, granola bars, or chocolate, along with a variety of pop tart flavors, can help maintain energy levels, and hydration is essential to general health and well-being. Reusable water bottles or boxed water aid in preventing dehydration and protect the environment as well. If you are refilling your water bottle, include water disinfection tablets. Carry extra snacks if you are embarking on an active trip. First Aid Kit Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but especially when selecting a natural destination, bumps, bruises, bites, and scrapes are to be expected. A fall, unwelcome insect, thorny vegetation, or an upset stomach can leave you miserable and, in some cases, susceptible to infection. A compact first aid kit with band-aids, gauze, tape, antiseptic cream or wipes, painkillers, antihistamine pills, eyewash, ibuprofen, a small pair of scissors, tweezers, hand sanitizer, and even some electrolyte tablets needs to be among your travel gear. Consider packing some bug spray, moisturizer, and sunscreen if the climate warrants them, and don’t forget prescription medicines and a copy of prescriptions, just in case. A pair of protective sunglasses and a hat will complete your protective gear. Eco-Friendly Essentials If traveling off the beaten path, consider bringing reusable items such as cutlery sets, plates, containers, and a reusable shopping bag. A portable knife or pocket multi-tool is an excellent item to carry. If you’re traveling by plane, place it in checked luggage. Use solid hygiene products like soap or shampoo that require less space in your backpack or suitcase and are environment-friendly. Don’t forget a towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clippers, and glasses if you wear them. A small sewing kit with needles may prove handy, too. Toilet Paper Roll A toilet paper roll may not seem obvious, but depending on where you are headed, you’ll be happy you thought to bring a roll along. Some cultures will not use toilet paper; wilderness destinations can be challenging when nature calls. Add in some tissues and wet wipes if you don’t have a place to wash up. Flashlight/Torch A flashlight is an essential tool to always have on hand. You don’t want to wander about in the darkness in a location you are unfamiliar with, especially should you lose track of time or your way. Flashlight torches and headlamps will reduce the risk of getting lost as well as bodily harm because you’ll be able to see where you are heading. Bring along an extra set of batteries and a lighter or matches, just in case. Comfortable Shoes And Clothing If you plan on walking a lot or hiking, comfortable footwear can make or break your overall experience. Plan for local weather conditions as well. You may be better prepared with waterproof shoes or boots. Don’t forget the proper type of socks, especially in colder climates. Choose the correct type of clothing, such as swimwear, goggles, and flip-flops for a warm beach destination, breathable fabrics for the tropics,  or heavier clothing for winter climates. Waterproof instruments may be called for if you’re visiting rainy locations. You may want an extra blanket or two as well. Portable Shelter If the wilderness is your final destination, portable emergency shelters are suitable to carry along. Reflective thermal shelters can be packed or attached to your backpack. Don’t Forget Your Documents! Regardless of where you are headed, you’ll need your documents. Necessary papers might include a driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, passport, and perhaps a visa. Carry photocopies of these documents in a separate location in the event of loss or theft. Prepare a mix of credit cards and local currency, as not all places may accept your plastic, and use a money belt or anti-theft bag if possible. Final Considerations Finally, bring a lock to keep your things safe during hostel visits or overnight train trips. If you use a backpack, have a rain cover so your items don’t become drenched in a downpour. Include a whistle among your packed essentials. You never know when you may need to call for help or fend off a critter! Read Also: A First-Hand Experience Of Taking A Red Eye Flight! The Ultimate Guide To Finding Cheap Flights To Chicago Using Google Flights Momondo Flights: Should You Try This Platform For Booking Flights In 2023?

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  Sibashree Dec 13, 2018

Are you a passionate traveler or have you found a life full of exciting thrills? You must explore the places to visit in Italy.     With Italy on your traveling bucket list,  you should be ready for a gala tour of history, food, art, music, and sacred sites. Further, the villas, colorful villages, and astonishing scenery are elements that make a trip to Italy mesmerizing.    It’s time you feed yourself with the knowledge about the places that await their glory.  Places To Visit in Italy on Your Next Trip  I am always at a loss for words when it comes to describing the mesmerizing beauty of Italy. So, without much ado, let’s know about the places you cannot miss in Italy.   1. Rome  “Rome is not built in a day.” One of the best places to visit in Italy, it has amazing vibes for its history as it can be called Europe’s most vibrant city. If you go to this place for the first time, you will discover that it is one of the best decisions that you ever made.    Glorious Relics from the Colosseum, Pantheon, Appian Way, and Palatine Hill. All these are included in your package for visiting Rome. It all depends on your personal preferences as a visitor.    The enchanting riches of the Vatican are the top attractions of the place. Michelangelo’s Pieta gives you another reason to have a day well spent in Rome. No wonder most visitors end up after spending a day or two in Rome if they have the budget.    Breathe fresh in the Borghese gardens and walk down the narrow streets of Trastevere. You will be able to collect the most cherished memories that Rome must deliver.    A must-go place to get in touch with the culture and people of this place. Don’t miss out on this destination if you are planning to visit Rome.   2. Florence  The Italian Renaissance, Florence is like a giant art museum with excellent architecture that dazzles your eyes. The art museum gives any person who visits this place the best moments in life. It is one of the things you will not want to leave out of your list of places to tour when visiting Italy.    The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a satisfaction to watch with a gravity-defying massive dome. You will not get such an experience in any other part of the world. It is an exceptional opportunity that you will not want to lose when in Rome.    The marble-inlaid bell tower and the incomparable bronze doors by Ghiberti need no introduction to put forward in Renaissance art. All these experiences come your way when you choose to visit Florence.    There are several art museums filled with paintings and masterpieces that offer you a visual treat. It is amazing to see the pieces of artwork in Florence. There is so much to explore in Florence that you don’t feel like you are still done with it! The destination should be among the top places you need to visit when going to Italy.   3. Venice  You cannot not love a city that has watery streets, where you have boats to accommodate, and love is in the air. This is what you will get on your Venice tour in Italy. So, there is no wonder that Venice is one of the best places to visit in Italy.    It is a magical city filled with several tourist destinations. The great Basilica of St. Mark, near the Doge’s Palace, is a definite treat. All this will be part of your experience if you choose to go to Venice when you visit Italy.   A Gondolas ride can make you go crazy once you are on the go. Beauty meets culture, a place where you can find the most authentic food to tantalize your taste buds and savor delicacies. Therefore, you will see the beautiful scenery and taste delicious meals in Italy.   Which other place will give you the combination of these two worlds? What a pleasure that is to be lost in the pleasures of Venice! Several postcards await you when you tour Venice! Way to Go!! Yes, Venice will give you the best experience ever on your Italy tour.   4. Lake Como  The lakes and their beauty are breathtaking, making Italy the most beautiful lake city. No one would like to visit a country without seeing what the lakes have to offer. One thing you need to understand is that Lake Como offers more than an ordinary lake will do.    Como can be your favorite summer retreat, and you can definitely pick up Villas in Italy near Lake Como to have a fantastic travel experience. You cannot compare the experience that you get here with any other place in the world.    Lake Como has its own uniqueness that makes it stand out. The microclimate of the western shore makes Como bearable, with moderate temperatures even in winter. Therefore, you can still target this place even when you feel like the environment is not conducive.    The natural touches can help you choose tranquility over cheer. Quench your travel thirsts by traveling to Lake Como this upcoming New Year! No one has regrets after choosing to visit Lake Como, Italy.   5. The Cinque Terre  The top five towns would almost be impossible if there were no railway connections made. After all, how will you move from one place to another without a reliable transportation system?    In contemporary times, the trail with cliffs is the only mode of travel. This can be called the most visited tourist attraction in Italy. Therefore, you could be the only one missing the opportunity if you don’t include it on your list.    It is one of the most soothing and relaxing places to visit. Cinque Terre is a definite reason to visit Italy once in your lifetime. Beauty attracts all, and why not explore the serene when you have all the beautiful things aligned in a city? This destination is the only reason why some people choose to visit Italy.   6. Amalfi Coast and Capri  The high and unlikely Amalfi Peninsula hugs the Mediterranean in the south of Naples is unimaginable for its pill down and dangerous steep slopes. However, the site is amazing, especially if you are experiencing it for the first time.    Streets can be called stairways, and houses surrounded with colorful natural decorators add more beauty to them. It is quite amazing to stare at these landscapes and watch what they have to offer.    Flowers and beaches amidst the emerald water are sure to soothe your mind, body, and soul. The Amalfi Drive is one of the world’s greatest scenic routes. Lavish villas and lush green gardens add zeal to your travels.   All these features will keep you watching for an extended period. No wonder we have a non-countable number of visitors who get to this destination every year.    Conclusion     Travel enthusiasts find the places to visit in Italy to be the full package of history, culture, customs, and sites that feed their hunger for aesthetics.   It’s time for you to be in this land of lakes, castles, and delicious wines. Doesn’t the idea sound just perfect? What is the one destination in Italy that you want to visit the most? Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us!   Read Also: Budget-friendly travel ideas in Australia Dubai Travel Package Deals – Important Things to Know