Be Soothed And Meet History At Hot Springs National Park

BY  Sibashree Aug 24, 2026

Thekkady may not have the best tourist season in 2026 due to the fall in the water level of the Periyar Lake. Still, it remains a classic Kerala experience with its unpredictable and untamed nature and wildlife. My day in Periyar started with an unexpected encounter with a majestic elephant. I was in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, focusing my binoculars to get a glimpse of the wildlife. It was dawn time, and the elephant seemed to appear from nowhere, evading the mist. This is how Thekkady catches you off guard. However, it is not just the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve. The Thekkady tourist places also include spice plantations, cultural centers, and some important places of religious and spiritual significance. Furthermore, the Thekkady resorts with private pool promise unmatched comfort for visitors who want a fusion of natural abundance and luxury. These focus on ecotourism and visibly function as extensions of the wild and untamed nature of Thekkady. It is no wonder that Thekkady had 757017 domestic visitors and 79736 foreign visitors in 2025. This data is from the Kerala Tourist Visits Statistics – 2025. Do you also want an immersive journey into Thekkady? I will talk about the tourist places, location, transport options, and a tentative itinerary. Where Is Thekkady? Thekkady is in the Idukki district of Kerala and close to the Tamil Nadu Border. Located in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats, Thekkady is at the edge of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Kumily, around 4 km away, is the nearest town, and most visitors choose to find accommodation in this town. Furthermore, with an elevation ranging between 700 and 1800 meters, Thekkady enjoys easy road connectivity to more famous tourism destinations such as Munnar, Kochi, Madurai, and Kottayam. Also, it is located at a distance of around 204 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital. How To Reach Thekkady? The nearest airport to Thekkady is Madurai, which is located at a distance of around 136 KM. Also, the nearest railway station is Kottayam, and the distance is around 110 KM. From both places, you have to reach Thekkady by road. Madurai To Thekkady From the airport, you can book a private taxi to reach Thekkady within 3.5 to 4 hours. The charges will be around ₹3500-₹7500. You can also board the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses from the M.G.R. Bus Stand to Kumily, which is just 5 minutes away from Thekkady. The travel time in these buses is around 3 hours and 20 minutes, and the ticket price is ₹154. Moreover, you can check the redBus platform for more such bus options. From Kottayam To Thekkady You can book a private car or taxi from Kottayam to Thekkady. The charges will be around ₹2600 to ₹4000. From Kottayam, you can also board KSRTC buses running from Ernakulam or Fort Kochi to Thekkady. The journey takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the ticket price will be between ₹150 and ₹300. Moreover, along with Kottayam and Madurai, many urban areas in Kerala, such as Kochi, have excellent road connectivity with Thekkady. What Are The Thekkady Tourist Places? The Thekkady tourist places are eclectic, offering a mix of wildlife, spiritual, and off-beat trekking experiences. Moreover, there are cultural places and tea factories. So, here, I have presented them in different categories. Nature And Wildlife Attractions While the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is at the epicenter of the wildlife experience in Thekkady, you can also visit the Elephant Junction. Here are more Thekkady tourist places for nature and wildlife exploration. 1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary And Tiger Reserve In 2022, Periyar Tiger Reserve won the title of the best-managed tiger reserve among the 54 reserves in the country. This is a community-based ecotourism project and is home to Bengal Tigers, Indian Elephants, leopards, gaur, barking deer, mouse deer, and many other mammals. The sanctuary remains open from 6 AM to 7 PM. The entry fee to the national park is ₹45 for Indian adults and ₹15 for Indian children. For foreigners, the charges are ₹500 (adults) and ₹180 (children), respectively. 2. Elephant Junction Elephant Junction is the place to get up-close and personal with elephants in Thekkady. I am never in for the rides or the logging activities, as I know how these can literally ruin the lives of the adorable creatures. However, I enjoyed feeding them and watching them when they were taking a bath in the nearby stream. The safari park remains open from 8 AM to 6 PM, and the packages start from ₹700. 3. Chellarkovil At a height of around 1200 meters above sea level, with a beautiful landscape and waterfall, it is an important ecotourism hub. Due to the ecotourism project here, you will come across many huts, medicinal plants, and pathways. Moreover, from the God’s Own Balcony of the Chellarkovil Watchtower, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the neighboring Theni and Kamabam. 4. Vandiperiyar At a distance of around 18 km from Thekkady, Vandiperiyar is a scenic hill and spice town in the Idukki district of Kerala. The beautiful Periyar River forms the lush landscape here, and it is also home to the Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden. This farm and flower garden features a rich collection of roses, orchids, and anthuriums. Moreover, it has tea, coffee, and pepper plantations in abundance. Also Check: Natural Wonder: Top 11 Best Landscape Places In The World. Thekkady Tourist Places Offering Religious And Spiritual Experience The religious or spiritual vibe of Thekkady is not limited to designated temples. You will find the hidden and the most significant gems in a plantation town or at the top of a hill. 1. Ramakalmedu There is one famous saying about Ramakalmedu. It is the place where “the wind never stops.” However, around 40 km away from Thekkady, this mountain peak gets its name from the mythological legend of Lord Rama setting his foot on this rock. Also, once you reach the summit, you will find the Kuravan and Kurathy statues, the biggest in Kerala and inspired by local legends. It is a peaceful area, offering sweeping views of the Cumbum and Bodi villages on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. 2. Kurisumala Kurisumala, the tallest peak in Thekkady, means the “Mountain of the Cross.” This is a pilgrimage for Christians, who climb uphill with a cross. At the top, there is a peaceful monastery. Also, on the eastern side of this Kurisumala, stands Muruganmala. It has a Murugan temple, constructed by cutting a rock. 3. Mangala Devi Temple I reached the Mangala Devi Temple after a trek of around 11 km through the forest. Kannaki, the protagonist of the Tamil Epic, Silapathikaram, is the presiding deity in this 100-year-old temple. After facing betrayal at this place, she transformed into a divine figure and blessed all the locals here. Thus, she became famous as Mangala Devi, or the deity who brings blessings. Unfortunately, the temple was closed when I visited it, and it only opens during the annual Chithrapournami festival. 4. Peermede Peermede, around 44 km away from Thekkady, is a plantation town. However, I visited it after knowing it was named after a Sufi Saint, Peer Mohammed. The town still has the mausoleum of the saint and the summer palace of the Royal Family of Travancore. After visiting these historical and spiritual places, you can also explore the rubber, cardamom, and tea plantations here. Also, for some more adventure, you can trek to Kuttikanam or Thrissanku Hills. How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Thekkady Tourist Places? Plan Your Itinerary Three to four days are enough to visit Thekkady tourist places. Here is an itinerary you can follow for a comfortable, rush-free experience. DaysFocusLocationsDay 1Wildlife and TownPeriyar Tiger Reserve  Elephant Junction ChellarkovilDay 2PlantationsVandiperiyar RamakalmeduDay 3Peaks and HeritageKurisumala and Muruganmala Peermede So, when are you planning a trip to Thekkady? Remember that October to March is the best time to visit this hill town. Read Also: What Are The Best Family Vacation Spots In The World? Here Are Our Favorites What Are The Things To Do In Unawatuna With Family? Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel

BY  Barsha Mar 23, 2023

Do you love exploring global cuisines? And do you reside in a global food hub like Los Angeles? If you are nodding your head to the above questions, then you have definitely arrived at the right destination. Because today, we will talk about the top Dominican restaurants in Los Angeles. But in case you are a little confused about Dominican cuisine, the popular cuisine is made up of largely Spanish food items, accompanied by Middle Eastern, indigenous Taino, and African influences. So if this sounds interesting to you, then you better stick around – because we have something tasty in store for you. Stay tuned to find out more. Top 12 Dominican Restaurants in Los Angeles: The Ultimate Guide Image Source: cdn.newsday.com There’s something so exotic about trying out new cuisine - if your tastebuds have an adventurous streak, then you should definitely be ready for some Dominican delicacies. And fortunately, today, we have several options when it comes to trying Dominican eateries located in Los Angeles. Are you already doing an extensive ‘Dominican restaurants near me’ search on Google? Then stop because we have already completed doing research for you. So, without wasting any more time, scroll down and find out the best Dominican Restaurants in Los Angeles. 1. Mofongos: Image Source: alexsseafood.com Mofongos is perhaps one Dominican restaurant in Los Angeles that we love visiting very frequently. Located on Lankershim Blvd, this is a casual eatery serving authentic Dominican dishes, including popular items such as Mofongo De Camarones, Flan De Queso, and Arroz Con Pastel Y Tostones. 2. El Colmao: Image Source: www.mammaproof.org The strangest thing about El Colmao is exactly how we found the place. Did you know that while looking for Dominican restaurants in NYC, we first came across this hidden gem in LA? Located on Pico Blvd, El Colmao is a Cuban restaurant known for its delicious sandwiches, rice and beans, Ropa Vieja, plantains, and other authentic dishes. 3. Coppelias Bakery & Restaurant:  Image Source: duyt4h9nfnj50.cloudfront.net Another result of looking for ‘Dominican restaurants New York’ on Google was Coppelias Bakery & Restaurant also in Los Angeles. If you love those cute bakeries specializing in different pastries and cakes, then this place is a must-visit. And that’s not all – you will also get Peruvian and Cuban food like the delicious Rotisserie chicken. 4. Mario’s Peruvian Seafood: Image Source: media-cdn.tripadvisor.com We are checking out Melrose Avenue when we found Mario’s Peruvian Seafood in Los Angeles. If you are exhausted of typing ‘Dominican Republic restaurants near me’ on Google, then stop – instead, just visit this restaurant and try out popular items such as Chicken Lomo Saltado, Chicharron De Pollo, Ceviche Mixto, and Inca Kola. 5. El Florida Restaurant: Image Source: d1ralsognjng37.cloudfront.net El Florida is a festive restaurant that specializes in two things – mouth-watering Cuban dishes and lively Latin melodies. Located right on Vine Street, the El Florida restaurant is one of our favorite Dominican restaurants in LA. If you do visit this restaurant, then do try out dishes like Ropa Vieja, Tostones, Bistec De Palomilla, Cuban sandwiches, and more. 6. Little Kingston Jamaican Restaurant: Image Source: media-cdn.grubhub.com While doing extensive research on the best Dominican food that LA has to offer, we stumbled upon Little Kingston Jamaican restaurant. Of course, it all started with the famous ‘Dominican food near me’ search, and soon we were hurrying all over Slauson Avenue looking for Little Kingston. 7. Otoño: Image Source: cdn.vox-cdn.com While we love the Dominican restaurants in New York, there is no point denying that LA has really upped its games when it comes to global cuisines, and Otoño is one such place that has made quite a name for its delectable Dominican dishes. But there’s only one problem - although the food is great, the service is a little slow, and that’s all right since the food quality is great. 8. Versailles Cuban Restaurant: Image Source: infatuation.imgix.net If you are looking for a kid-friendly, humble Dominican restaurant, then you must head over to the Versailles Cuban Restaurant located on Venice Blvd. Moreover, the place comes with plenty of positive reviews online - this is precisely what most people, including us, check out online before visiting any restaurant. 9. El Rincon Criollo: Image Source: d1ralsognjng37.cloudfront.net Located on Sepulveda Blvd, El Rincon Criollo is a relaxed and casual Cuban eatery that specializes in shredded beef and roasted pork. The vibrant island decor only adds up to the charm of this cozy restaurant. Plus, the menu is all about authentic Cuban dishes - if you love adventures, then this one will definitely become your favorite. 10. Colombia Exotic: Image Source: digital.ihg.com Located on Union Ave, Colombia Exotic is one of our favorite Dominican restaurants in Los Angeles. We love their food - our favorites? Arepa de Pollo, Salchipapa regular, Monster burgers, Salchipollo, and Arepa Cuatro Sabores. If your tastebuds are looking for something exotic, then this is the restaurant you have to check out as soon as possible. 11. La Guanakita Mexicana: Image Source: duyt4h9nfnj50.cloudfront.net We found so many positive reviews on La Guanakita Mexicana online that we knew missing out on such an authentic, local eatery would be honesty our loss. If you have been to Pico Blvd before, chances are you missed this local eatery on the side of the road - but this time, be attentive and visit this crazy local restaurant. 12. Mixto Comida Latina: Image Source: d1ralsognjng37.cloudfront.net The Mixto Comida Latina is one of those Dominican restaurants in Los Angeles that has both delivery and dining options. And not just that, but you will also get to choose between dine-in and delivery alternatives. Located on Hyperion Ave, Mixto Comida Latina is another one of our favorite Dominican restaurants to visit every time we are craving Dominican cuisine. Bon Appetit: Have A Good Meal! And that’s a wrap on the best Dominican restaurants located in Los Angeles. If you love exploring global food options, then you can definitely try out a few Dominican dishes. But while doing so, it’s always best to keep an open mind and let your tastebuds decide what works for you and what obviously doesn’t work for you. So, tell us what your thoughts are on trying out Dominican cuisine – and while sharing your thoughts, if you do have prior experience with this cuisine, then share your experiences in the comments below.

BY  Sibashree Sep 18, 2026

I reached Mihintale before 7 AM.   The stone steps were still cool, and the mist was not yet off the fields.   You can call it bad timing, as everyone told me to visit Mihintale at sunrise or never at all. However, I chose a different time on purpose.   The reward? I found Mihintale at its quietest.   Sigiriya, an hour south, got all the crowds and queues.   On the other hand, Mihintale, the place where Buddhism actually arrived in Sri Lanka, is humble, with a handful of monks.   Also, there were a few pilgrims in white attire.   Surprisingly, I even came across some confused tourists checking a map.   That struck me more, and it once again reminded me that it is one of the most underrated stops in the Cultural Triangle.   Mihintale At A Glance  Detail Information Location 13 km east of Anuradhapura, North Central Province Significance Site of the 3rd-century BCE meeting between Arahat Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa, traditionally marking the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka Opening hours 6 AM to 6:00 PM (Remains Open for longer hours on Poson Poya.) Foreign visitor entry fee Around US$3 per person (paid in LKR at the day's rate). It is separate from the Anuradhapura Sacred City ticket. Visitor entry fee for locals Free Steps to the summit About 1,840 stone steps from the base car park to Mihintale Rock. Best time to visit Early morning (6–8 AM) or late afternoon; June's Poson Poya for the full pilgrimage experience Nearest base town Anuradhapura (20–30 minute drive or tuktuk ride)  The Story Behind The 1840 Steps The significance of climbing up the 1840 steps at Mihintale is not about the 1840 steps.   The hill is modest if you compare it to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.   However, it is the spot where the entire religious character of the island changed.   Monk Arahat Mahinda, Emperor Ashoka’s eldest son, met King Devanampiyatissa.  The king was hunting, and after his exchange with Arahat Mahinda, he converted to Buddhism.   He also declared Buddhism the state religion. Thus, Mihintale is the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.   Ambasthala Dagoba, a small stupa, marks the exact spot of that meeting.   So, in significance, this place outranks the more photogenic ruins in local devotion.  It is not built for tourists. It is also not a restored monument.   In fact, it is a working pilgrimage site that Sri Lankan Buddhists have kept returning to for over two thousand years.  Why Poson Poya Turns Mihintale Into A Sea Of White Mihintale becomes the spiritual center of the country every June.   Poson Poya, or the full moon day in Jun,e is the biggest festival here.   In 2026, Mihintale celebrated Poson Poya on 29th June and, like every year, more than ten thousand devotees attended the event.   The pilgrims dressed in white climbed through the night with lanterns to reach the summit stupas by dawn.   Climbing Mihintale: What The 1,840 Steps Actually Feel Like The climb to Mihintale has different stages.   Also, each stage evokes different feelings with its distinct ambiance.   The Base: Kantaka Chetiya And The Monastery Ruins  From the main car park, the first wide stone stairway leads past the ruins of what was once a large monastic complex.  The complex had refectories, meditation halls, and stone urinals carved with such intricate patterns that early archaeologists initially mistook them for decorative slabs rather than plumbing.   I took a short detour off the main steps to reach Kantaka Chetiya.  It is a partially preserved stupa ringed with carved friezes that are older.  I found them more delicate than anything at the summit.   Almost nobody stops here, which is exactly why I did.  The Middle Climb: Widening Views And The Naga Pokuna  The steps get shallower and more shaded as you climb.  Also, I came across the famous Naga Pokuna here.   Naga Pokuna means the pond guarded by a five-headed cobra.   Once I reached Naga Pokuna, I could see the dagobas of Anuradhapura in the distance.   They looked like pale domes above the tree line.   I stood there for a good 10 minutes to admire the view of the dagobas and catch my breath.   Ambasthala Terrace And The Sacred Meeting Point  After crossing Naga Pokona, the steps opened onto a broad, sandy plateau.  It is the Ambasthala Terrace with frangipani trees all around. These trees reminded me of my home.   Furthermore, the Ambasthala Dagoba sits in the center of the terrace.   As I mentioned, it is the place where Monk Mahinda met the king and brought the religious transformation of the island country.   A large seated Buddha statue watches over the terrace, and this is where I saw the most devotees.  I knelt, lit oil lamps, and then sat in the shade.   You have to take off your shoes and hat here.   The sandstone here can be uncomfortably hot by mid-morning. So, visiting Mihintale early is a must.   The Final Push To Mihintale Rock  From Ambasthala, a short but steep set of steps, carved directly into the granite, with only a thin iron handrail, leads to the summit.  You will find the small Mahaseya Dagoba here.  It is a genuinely exposed scramble in a couple of places, and I saw more than one visitor turn back here.   If you make it, the payoff is a 360-degree view over the Anuradhapura plains.  I completed the climb in an hour.   So, if you factor in around 2 hours for climbing and descending, you will need at least 2 hours to explore the stupas and soak in the spiritual vibe here.   Entry Tickets And Costs  Mihintale has its own ticket, separate from the Anuradhapura Sacred City ticket that covers Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiri.   Ticket type Approx. price (2026 reporting) Mihintale foreign adult ticket $3 (paid in LKR) Mihintale child ticket (under 12) $1.5 to 2.5 Anuradhapura Sacred City ticket (separate) $25–30 Combined Ticket of Cultural Triangle tour $50 (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura)  How To Visit Mihintale From Anuradhapura? Mihintale is around 13 km east of Anuradhapura's New Town.  Also, it is roughly a 20–30 minute drive or tuktuk ride along a well-paved road. When I visited, the tuktuk charged me LKR 1500.   Most visitors combine it with an Anuradhapura day as an early-morning add-on before the sacred city gets busy.  You can also visit it as a late-afternoon stop on the way toward Trincomalee or Habarana.   What Is The Best Time Of Day And Year To Climb Mihintale? 6:30 AM to 7 AM is the best time of the day to beat both the heat and the tour buses.  Also, if you are looking for the best season, May to September is the best window with dry weather conditions.   However, if you want to experience the festive fervor around the temple, Poson Poya or June Full Moon is the best.  A Half-Day Mihintale And Anuradhapura Itinerary  Time Stop Notes 6:00 AM Depart Anuradhapura Take a tuk-tuk or car and reach within 25 minutes. 6:30 AM Mihintale Base and Kantaka Chetiya Climb the cool steps. Explore the monastery ruins with no crowds. 7:30 AM Ambasthala Terrace and Mihintale Rock Enjoy the sunrise light and a quieter summit.  9:00 AM Return to Anuradhapura Have your breakfast. Return to the Sacred City. 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM Ruwanwelisaya, Sri Maha Bodhi, Jetavanaramaya Core Anuradhapura sites before midday heat.  Why Mihintale Is Worth The Detour  Most Cultural Triangle itineraries treat Mihintale as an optional half-day tacked onto Anuradhapura.  It is obvious, as Anuradhapura gets more attention due to its scale, and Sigiriya is marketed well.   However, Mihintale is the only site in the region I visited that still felt primarily like a place of worship rather than a monument being managed for visitors.   If you only have time for one Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Cultural Triangle beyond the big-name ruins, it is the place you should be.