Exploring Pigeon Forge As A Weekend Getaway

BY  Sibashree Feb 17, 2026

Trincomalee has one of the closest gateways to Harbarana, the gateway to the Ritigara Forest Monastery.  However, as a tourist from India, Trincomalee is more than a tourist attraction for me. As Jaffna, Sri Lanka, connects the country with India, my homeland, with its Tamil culture and Top Hindu Temples, Trincomalee is important for political, economic, and security reasons.  That is why India has taken a keen interest in the development of the “socio-economic infrastructure and energy hub” in the region.  Also, Trincomalee, with adventure opportunities such as whale watching, surfing, and historical exploration, plays an important role in the tourism development in Sri Lanka.  However, it is unfortunate that most tourists think of only Uppuveli Beach when there is any discussion regarding Trincomalee.  This time, I will talk about the things to do in Trincomalee beyond the Uppuveli Beach.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Trincomalee? I know it’s difficult to avoid the allure of the Uppuveli Beach, which has a laid-back vibe. Also, its emerald waters attract the divers and snorkelers.  Still, there is so much to see beyond the Uppuveli Beach. I loved the beautiful beaches in Jaffna for their quiet and pristine vibes.  However, I found the Uppuveli Beach very touristy, and that was a big turn-off for someone like me, who believes in the principles of the LowDownUnder Travel.  So, here are the other and more exciting (for me) things to do in Trincomalee. 1. Visiting The Nilaveli Beach I took a tuk-tuk from the Uppuveli Beach and reached the Nilaveli Beach within 20 minutes. It was summertime. So, even if the Sun was very strong, the crowd was very small. Just the way I like it! The restaurants, shops, and resorts were not up from their siesta yet, and it was the surfing locals who kept the beach alive.  I started walking south back along the white beach toward Uppuveli, and fortunately, found a place that looked deserted. It was just the turquoise waters, white sand, and me.  However, the current was pretty strong, and I could not spot any lifeguards. So, I bunked the idea of swimming and again walked back toward the north. I had chilled beer with some snacks and watched the surfers in action.  The guy serving food asked me to come back in the peak season when the beach becomes a bustling coastal hub. I told him, “I like it this way!”  2. Visiting The Thirukoneswaram Kovil Temple  Entry: Free Hours: 6 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 6:45 PM Photography: Not Allowed Dress Code: Modest Clothing with Knees and Shoulders Covered  I again took a tuk-tuk from the Nilaveli Beach and started for the Sri Thirukoneswaram Kovil Temple. The temple is on the Trincomalee cliffs, and on my way, I found Fort Frederick, once a Dutch stronghold in the country.  Also, as I started walking upward, there were many sellers, market stalls, and fruit vendors lined on both sides of the road. So, the temple is not just a religious place. It is at the epicenter of the local economic and cultural activities.  Nevertheless, once I reached the temple entrance, the majestic statue of Lord Shiva evoked awe. The main temple in pastel shades is erected behind the statue.  The main temple and many of the statues were destroyed by the Portuguese, and they built Fort Frederick with the temple ruins. However, the locals saved many of the statues by burying them underground, and now they are restored again.  The interior of the current temple is as beautiful as its exterior. You will find intricate wooden work and Hindu deities everywhere you look. Also, as you take a walk around the temple, you eventually walk down the cliffs, enjoying the beautiful views of the bay.  3. Lover’s Leap  Lover’s Leap is an area in the Trincomalee cliffs themselves. Francina van Reed, the daughter of a Dutchman, sacrificed her life by jumping from the cliffs.  She saw the ship of her lover sinking in the waters of the Indian Ocean. Out of grief, she took her life.  4. Fort Frederick Fort Frederick was once a Portuguese stronghold, and now the Sri Lankan army uses it. So, you can only see the fort from the road.  Also, there are many old colonial buildings in the same area.  Furthermore, the Fort is occupied by the local deer. Spotting them here was unexpected and obviously a high point.  However, there are warning signs, and you must obey them. So, do not try to feed them, however tempting it may seem.  5. Visiting The Trincomalee Maritime And Naval History Museum Hours Open: 9 AM to 4 PM (Wednesday to Monday) Entry: Free I took a short walk from the fort and reached the Trincomalee Maritime and Naval History Museum. The barrel of a giant cannon welcomed me there.  I opted for a guided tour as I wanted to know the stories behind the exhibits. The museum has recreated a shipwreck, and among other exhibits, there are 3D models explaining the history and landscape of Trincomalee.  There are also archaeological exhibits and the display of naval uniforms.  However, the high point in the museum was yet to come for me. I learned that it was once the residence of a Dutch Commissioner. However, the building fell with the roots of a giant tree bursting through the property.  Still, it was restored to its glory after a reconstruction work of five years.  I was slowly soaking in the story of human resilience as my guide took me to the roof of the museum. I climbed up through a set of tiny stairs in the backroom.  The view was beautiful, and I could see the bay, Fort Frederick, and everything in the surrounding areas.  6. Exploring The Trincomalee Market Exploring the local market was at the core of my Jaffna food tour. Similarly, to know about the local culture, I decided to visit the Trincomalee Market.  Trust me, it is one of the best things to do in Trincomalee if you are planning to try activities that are not very touristy.  I spotted some beautiful street art while exploring the market. Furthermore, the textile shops were selling vibrant clothes, vegetables and fresh fruit. Also, the fish market has a separate section.  So, if you are a vegetarian or vegan, you can explore the market without hesitation.  The market is also easily accessible from various parts of Trincomalee, as the setup is around the Central Bus Station and the Clock Tower.  Lunch And Food At The Trincomalee Market For me, a trip remains incomplete until I try the local food. Food here is very much like Jaffna, only a little less spicy.  The hotels (restaurants) here serve warm vadas, rice and curry, samosas, and seafood. Lunch for a person at these hotels will cost you around INR 120.  Then, we walked opposite the bus station and found many fruit and vegetable stalls. We bought some bananas, dragon fruits, and the jackfruits there were the biggest I have seen. The Fish Market I was a little late, and most of the fish was sold by then. Still, the crowd of vendors and sellers was pretty decent there.  I bought some fresh crabs and prawns and requested the cook at the hostel to prepare our evening snacks and dinner with them. I made quite a few friends at the hostel. So, sharing the meal with them was a lot of fun.  7. Whale Watching  Whale watching is one of the most exciting things to do in Trincomalee if you are here between November and mid-April.  It is located at a distance of 2 hours, and Nilaveli and Uppuveli beaches are the best places to spot whales in Trincomalee.  In the peak season, you can spot at least ten species of whales here. Things To Do In Trincomalee: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the things do in Trincomalee. 1. What Is The Meaning Of Trincomalee? The name Trincomalee comes from the Tamil word Thiru-kona-malai. It means the Lord of the Sacred Hill. Furthermore, the name indicates the presence of the Koneswaram Temple on the hill. It is a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.  2. What Is The Trincomalee To Colombo Distance? The distance between Colombo and Trincomalee is around 260 km. Buses run by the National Transport Commission and the Sri Lanka Transport Board run buses on this route. The transport time is around 7 hours, and the ticket price is INR 250 onward. On the other hand, you will get direct trains from Trincomalee to Colombo. The travel time is close to 8 hours, and the ticket price is INR 400 onward. However, if budget is not a constraint, you can book a private car at around INR 3500 and 4500. Also, book a flight ticket to Colombo Airport, Bandaranaike International Airport. The flight ticket will be around INR 4000 to 35000.  3. What Is The Coldest Place In Sri Lanka?  Nuwara Eliya, with the nickname of “Little England,” is the coldest place in Sri Lanka. In the winter season, the temperature frequently drops to 10 degrees Celsius in this region. Furthermore, in January, sometimes the temperature is near freezing. Moreover, Horton Plains and Pattipola are some of the coldest places in the region. 4. What Is The Best Time To Visit Trincomalee? March to May and October to February are the best seasons to visit Trincomalee. From March to May, the temperature is around 30 to 36 degrees Celsius, and from October to February, the average temperature hovers around 28 to 30 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, from November to April is the best time for whale watching in Trincomalee. 

BY  Sibashree Sep 16, 2024

Everest Base Camp is situated on the southern side of Mount Everest, the tallest peak in the world at 5,364 meters. The place is accessible for climbers and trekkers to stay and see the beautiful sights of the Himalayas.  However, before you begin your trekking, you should enjoy and relish the places, towns, and bazaars. They offer many holiday centers like billiards, and gambling areas to enjoy the time. Also, do not forget beautiful food and antique pieces to enhance your trekking experience.  So, look down to see the things before you Experience trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal.  Things to See While Camping at Everest Base Camp Trek  Here are a few places and things to see while camping at Everest base camp trek -  Lukla  Lukla is one of the famous destinations for travelers. It stands at 2860 meters and is situated in the northeastern part of Nepal, where you can see the beautiful sight of the Himalayas. Moreover, it is the place where you start your trekking journey.  Hence, the town has evolved over the years to become a commercial place where tourists can find the best food and shops to buy. Also, the city has a small airport with a landing strip of 525 meters and boasts of having the most petite landing strip and being the airport at the highest peak in the world.  Syangboche and Everest View Hotel  Syangboche is one of the famous places to visit when you visit Everest base camp. Everest View Hotel is located at the highest peak in the world, which gave it a Guinness record for being the highest-placed hotel in the world. That way, you can see the 360-degree view of the snow-capped mountain from the hotel.  Peaks like Mt. Everest, Tawache, Ama Dablam, and Khumbu Himal are sights to behold. Takashi Miyahara and Yoshinobu Kumagaya envisioned the hotel's construction. Moreover, they had to transport loads of materials to the Himalayas with the help of local Sherpas. The task began in 1960 and came into action in 1971.  Tengboche Tengboche is one of the towns located near the Imja Khola, a typical night halt after Namche. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Tawache, Nuptse, and Lhotse. Tenzing Norgay was also born in Tengboche.  Furthermore, every year in October, the Tengboche Monastery holds the Mani Rimdu festival. This is primarily a Buddhist celebration that includes religious gatherings, ritual singing, and dancing. During the celebration, famous people visit the place, especially Rinpoche, who blesses pilgrims and travelers.  Namche Bazaar Namche Bazaar is one of the bubbling places in Nepal. From the town, you can see the Everest Region. It is also one of the vibrant markets where you can buy Tibetan antiquities, especially trekking and climbing attire. From every point of the city, you can see a panoramic view of the Himalayas.  Moreover, the town has been preserving its historical culture and natural friendliness. It is a trading town known for its yak cheese and butter. Also, you can see a pub, motels, and hotels where travelers can enjoy and have fun. Thus, you can stop in the town for two days before you move on to the trek. Lastly, many Sherpa settlements like Khunde, Khumjung, and Thane can be seen when you visit the town.    Dingboche Dingboche is another popular point from which trekkers move on to Mount Everest from the base camp. You can stay for two nights in the town to see the beautiful Imja River and the beautiful sights of the Himalayas. Thus, many lodges and tents are available, providing the best accommodation for tourists.  Also, a helicopter landing pad lies on the west of Imja River, especially near Moonlight Lodge. Moreover, you can find a satellite cafe and enjoy playing billiards in one of the tallest billiards parlors. Lastly, you can see the kilometers of Mani Walls, which is a great way to create a tourist sight. Additionally, it is made in various sizes and put on top of the kilometers of walls.  Gorakshep Gorakshep is the last stop before you go on your trekking journey. It is a village amidst the Sagarmatha National Park, a hub for Sherpa guides, tourism businesses, and porters. Beyond this point, there is no accommodation facility, so you have to stay in tents amidst the cold weather and winds of the Himalayas.  You will find various guesthouses to stay in before you go for a hike. It is the last resting point for trekkers to experience the great wilderness of the Himalayas. Thus, you can visit Gorakshep before you start your trekking to Mt. Everest. So, spend the night in the lodging house and enjoy the great wilderness of the Himalayas.      The Bottom Line  In the end, Everest Base Camp is where you can begin your trekking journey. However, if you go trekking, you have to wait and see the beautiful sights of the Himalayas. The serene nature that comes along with the great wilderness and bazaar is full of Tibetan things. Furthermore, you can gamble and play billiards in the parlor, as it is one of the best places for visitors to have fun.  Hence, you can visit the place mentioned above, where you must carry a hard disk to capture millions of beautiful pictures. Consequently, you can taste beautiful Nepali and Tibetan dishes, filling your soul. So, pack your bags and start your trekking journey right now.  FAQs  Here are a few frequently asked questions -  Do you need oxygen at Everest Base Camp? Yes, you need a reliable oxygen tank before you go on a trek to higher altitudes.  Can you drink alcohol at Everest Base Camp? You should avoid drinking alcohol while camping at the Everest Base Camp. It will reduce your vision and judgment as the trails are rough.  How many hours of walking is Everest Base Camp? You must walk 7 to 8 hours a day before walking to the Everest Base Camp.   What is the best time to visit Everest Base Camp? The best time to visit Everest Base Camp is during the late-May to mid-September. Also read Top Reasons To Do Everest Trekking – Himalaya View Treks. Explore Human History And Wildlife With Backcountry Camping In Gates Of The Arctic National Park. From Himalayan Peaks to Cultural Experiences: The Ultimate Guide to Everest Base Camp and Manaslu Circuit Trek.

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 14, 2023

The state of breathtaking landscape, endless outdoor fun opportunities, and history and culture truly make Colorado one of the most popular states in the country. International tourists, locals who want to find out more about this amazing state, and people looking for a new home – all agree on one thing, and that’s the fact that Colorado has it all. This state is particularly popular among couples, who want to have some fun and enjoy some astonishing views, but also check out potential places to settle down and start calling Colorado their home. To help you on your journey, we’ve made a list of the 6 cities you should not miss when visiting the Centennial State – check them out and start making the itinerary. Colorado For Couples: How It Feels Like Traveling With Your Significant One Traveling as a couple has so many more benefits than just getting to know Colorado as a state. This is also a way to work on your relationship and spend some quality time together. With the recent changes in lifestyle due to busy schedules and being surrounded by technology, spending time doing something meaningful has become incredibly important. When exploring Colorado as a couple you can improve your communication, get more intimate and learn more about each other, but also ignite romance and improve your sex life. Furthermore, exploring new cities is a great chance to see how you both like them as a potential new home, and maybe start making more serious plans about moving and starting a family. Colorado For Couples: You Must Not Miss Visiting These Places Colorado is one of the top 10 biggest states in the US, so it’s no wonder if you don’t know where to go on this journey. There are 6 cities you shouldn’t miss, though, as they are perfect for couples who want to have fun, but also learn more about this state. At Tour and Travel, we have curated places perfect for couples who want to have fun but also learn more about this state. 1. Denver, Colorado For Couples Let’s start with the most obvious item on this list – it’s Colorado’s capital, Denver. This is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, and there are many reasons for it. The ‘Mile High City” is a place where you can’t miss good weather – it has over 300 days of sunshine per year. Place of cultural events, delicious food, and many museums, local breweries, and more. Even though it’s a cosmopolitan city, it has easy access to nature, and it’s surrounded by some of the most breathtaking sceneries. And for a more romantic turn on this visit, try places such as Home Sweet Dome, Gold Nugget Tree House, or Boulder Mountain Studio. If you decide you want to stay here for good, know that the area is well covered with professionals ready to help you out. Lakewood is one of the Denver suburbs favored by couples, and you won’t have trouble finding a hand here and making this place your home. 2. Fort Collins With just a short drive from Denver, you arrive in Fort Collins, one of the places you shouldn’t miss on your Colorado journey. The place of amazing local eateries, breathtaking views endless options for recreational activities. This city also has a vibrant nightlife, which is why many couples decide to stay a bit longer. You can also explore its picturesque old town, peep at charming local shops, and grab a beer from one of the local breweries. Finally, don’t forget to watch a football game at the CSU Canvas football stadium and feel the sports spirit of this lovely city. 3. Colorado Springs Even though it’s a bit smaller than Denver, Colorado Springs doesn’t offer fewer things to enjoy. Elevated at about 6,000ft, this place is rather unique and surely a must-visit place on your map. It’s perfect for couples who love outdoor activities and nature. You can go hiking and see spectacular rock formations of the Rocky Mountains, the Garden of the Gods park, Pikes Peak, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, and or visit some of the numerous hot springs in the area. The city itself is filled with interesting spots such as Pioneer Museum, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo –`it. For a romantic stay, choose places such as Garden of the Gods Resort or the Broadmoor, where you can relax after a long day of sightseeing and have a dreamy stay with your significant other. Colorado Springs is actually one of the top choices for couples looking for a home in Colorado. Its amenities but also proximity to Denver make it very convenient for people who want to start a family here. .However, if you decide to relocate to Colorado Springs, make sure you work with experienced people who know the area well and can deal with your move easily. Don’t risk complicated relocation and potential moving frauds. 4. Durango Don’t be fooled by Durango’s size – this small place has a lot to offer. Apart from the historic gauge railroad, you can also come for some astonishing scenery, famous filming locations, historical places, and amazing food and beer.Durango is perfect for couples who enjoy skiing, hiking, and being surrounded by one-of-a-kind nature. 4. Loveland “Sweetheart City” is surely one of the cities you should not miss when exploring Colorado as a couple. If you’re an art lover, you’ll enjoy the City of Loveland, located in Larimer Country. It’s just a short drive from Denver, so don’t miss the chance to see its three sculpture parks, and if you’re here in the time of Valentine’s Day, you can participate in numerous events dedicated to all the lovebirds. 5. Aspen If you’re a winter lover, you’ve probably heard about Aspen, one of the top skiing destinations in the country. This is also one of the places you shouldn’t miss when exploring Colorado as a couple, as winter recreation can get pretty romantic here. There are four ski areas to choose from, but skiing is not the only activity you can do here. You can go fly fishing, hiking, and even do a romantic hot-air ballooning trip with your loved one. One thing is for sure – couples will enjoy everything Aspen has to offer, and this place can be a perfect way to finish this amazing Colorado adventure. 7. Aurora Aurora is a great place in Colorado to steal a kiss from your partner. It offers an eclectic experience in Colorado for couples. On the one hand, it has Stanley Marketplace, a gigantic food hall. On the other hand, it has Cherry Creek State Park. In fact, you can enjoy a special evening with your partner by watching musicals and entertaining events at Vintage Theater. The address of Vintage Theater is 1468 Dayton St, Aurora, CO 80010, United States. Also, you can contact them directly at +1 303-856-7830 to know about the ongoing productions.  Aurora Reservoir: The Highlight Of Visiting Aurora With Your Partner Another great place of attraction in Aurora is the “Aurora Reservoir.” Auro Reservoir is a hub of picnics, adventures, and many outdoor pursuits. You can take part in the following activities with your partner in Aurora. Swimming Boating Fishing Kayaking Paddle Boarding The views of sunrise and sunset here are very romantic. In December and January, the Aurora Reservoir Park remains open from 7 AM to 5 PM. In fact, every month has a different time of operation, and you must check with the authority by calling 303.739.7000.  Furthermore, as a tourist, you can buy a day pass to Aurora Reservoir. The pass will cost you between $10-15 based on the day you are visiting.  The Aurora Reservoir has been in focus recently due to the opposition to an oil and gas project near the Aurora Reservoir. STAR, or Save The Aurora Reservoir group, was behind this protest.However, despite the protest, the project of Lowry Ranch CAP continues as the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission allowed the project in August 2024. The Save The Aurora Reservoir Group is now on a new mission, and they want to keep the actual drilling pads away from the community.  Read Also: The Best Resort Spa & Wellness Island Experience! 7 Key Points To Remember While Planning Your Honeymoon Trip What To Consider When Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families