Langkawi RORO Ferry: Your Gateway To Island Paradise

BY  Sibashree Feb 18, 2026

During my last trip to Jaffna, I got an idea about the inclusive soul of Sri Lanka. The Ambuluwawa Tower is another prominent example of how the country practices a peaceful, multi-religious coexistence.  Along with the top Hindu temples in Jaffna and the Ritigala Forest Monastery, this 48-meter-tall tower has been a highlight of the religious scene in Sri Lanka for me.  This tower has Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, and Muslim sites. Also, it rises above the mountain and is truly called “Nature’s Stairway to Sri Lanka” for the views of the Knuckles Range and other surrounding mountain ranges.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Ambuluwawa Tower in Sri Lanka. Let’s find out how it combines the beauty of nature with the excellence of human craftsmanship.  I will cover topics such as the location of the tower, how to reach it, what is so special about it, safety tips, and more.  What Is The Ambuluwawa Tower?  Ambuluwawa Tower is a human-made structure atop the magnificent Ambuluwawa Mountain, which has a height of 3,567 feet.  It is a part of the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex, which celebrates nature and the diverse religious philosophies.  Along with the surrounding mountains and peaks, on a clear day, you can see even Adam’s Peak from this tower.  Furthermore, the park has different religious sites, as I have mentioned.  Also, once you climb up the tower, you can experience the true beauty of Ambuluwawa and see how the clouds kiss the mountains.  Ambuluwawa Tower Quick Facts  Completed in 2006Height48 MetersElevation from the Sea Level1087 MetersNumber of Stairs to Climb 55ViewA 360-Degree Embracing ViewHours Open7:30 AM to 5:30 PMEntry Fee2,750 LKR or Around 806 INR • With Bike: 2850 LKR• With Car: 3200 LKR Where Is Ambuluwawa Tower Located?  Atop the Ambuluwawa Mountain, Ambuluwawa Tower is in Gampola, Sri Lanka. It is in the southwest of Kandy. The distance is around 20 kilometers.  It takes around 1 hour by road to reach the Ambuluwawa Tower from Candy. The duration may differ based on the traffic conditions.  You can even combine your visit to the Ambuluwawa Tower with the places to see in Kandy. As Jaffna is famous for its Tamil culture, Kandy remains a rich hub of history and Buddhist religious attractions.  The places to visit in Candy are the Commonwealth War Cemetery, the International Buddhist Museum, the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue, etc.  You can even extend your itinerary by planning a trip to Nuwara Eliya, the coldest place in Sri Lanka.  How To Reach The Ambuluwawa Tower? Ambuluwawa Tower is a common stopover when someone is traveling from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. 1. By Car Or Private Taxi  You can take a taxi or car to reach Ambuluwawa from Kandy in 1 hour. The cost will be around INR 3500.  However, the travel time can be more than an hour depending on the traffic conditions.  2. By Train However, I took a train from Kandy to Gampola. It is lighter on the pocket, and the commute time is a little less.  Moreover, it is perfect for someone like me who believes in the philosophy of TheLow DownUnder Travel.  Trains depart from Kandy to Ambuluwawa three times a day.  The first train departs at 3:35 AM and reaches Ambuluwawa at 4:18 AM. Furthermore, the next train departs at 8:47 AM and reaches Ambuluwawa at 9:32 AM.  However, the fastest train from Kandy to Ambuluwawa departs at 11:10 AM and reaches at 11:36 AM. Also, the average ticket price for this train journey is around INR 380.  Moreover, tuk-tuks are easily available from the Gampola Station to the Ambuluwawa Tower. You have to negotiate a bit, and for me, it cost around INR 400. From the station, you will reach the tower entrance in 15-20 minutes.  3. Reserve A Tuk-Tuk  Tuk-Tuks are the best for exploring Sri Lanka. A ride in Tuk-Tuks is fun and adventurous. Also, today, there are platforms such as tuktukrental. com to make your rides easier.  A reserved tuk-tuk ride from Kandy to Ambuluwawa will cost around INR 1500.  If you have reserved a tuk-tuk, the entry fee to the park for one adult will cost 2900 LKR, which is around INR 850.  Furthermore, you can get dropped off at the entrance and then book a taxi-tuktuk or walk the rest of the distance.  Reserved Tuk-Tuk, Taxi Tuk-Tuk, And Walk: Which Option Is The Best For You?  I got down at the entrance of the Ambuluwawa Park and then took a taxi tuk-tuk. It cost me around INR 400, and these are the best options because they are souped up and they can climb up the mountain faster.  I found these taxi tuk-tuks at the entrance, and the drivers were friendly. The price was around 400 INR or 1500 LKR.  You can even take your own tuk-tuk. However, I saw many tuk-tuks getting stuck in the middle. Then, the passengers had to walk for the rest of the route.  Now, walking here or on the ascent is not everyone’s cup of tea. It is very steep.  Visiting The Ambuluwawa Tower? Keep These Tips In Mind  Early morning or late afternoon (just before sunset) is the best time of day to climb up the Ambuluwawa Tower. Moreover, in the middle of the day, the view can become foggy.  So, here are a few more things to remember.  1. Enjoy The Unique Ascent Experience At The Ambuluwawa Tower You have to climb up 55 stairs to reach the top of the tower.  However, the staircase is narrow and spiral, and as I kept climbing up, the staircase started getting narrower.  Still, enjoy the 360-degree view before your eyes as you keep climbing up the stairs.  2. Combine Your Tower Visit With Other Activities Once you are done visiting the tower, you can visit the nearby Java Lounge or souvenir shop. You can also have an adrenaline rush at the Adventure Park.   Furthermore, you can combine a historical and cultural tour of Kandy with a visit to the Ambuluwawa Tower. You can even travel to Nuwara Eliya.  Moreover, there are many nearby tea plantations to explore.   3. Insider Tips  Layered clothing and comfortable shoes are a must as you need to climb up 55 stairs. Also, at the top, it is very windy.  Moreover, you have to hold your mobile phone or camera firmly as the wind is harsh at the top.  Also, you need to carry enough water and snacks. Is It Safe To Visit The Ambuluwawa Tower?  Yes, the Ambuluwawa Tower is safe to climb. However, the staircases are narrow and can sometimes be slippery.  Also, sometimes the crowd can move in the wrong direction, creating unnecessary traffic in the staircase.  Furthermore, it may be difficult for you if you have health issues such as vertigo and spondylitis.  Nevertheless, wear comfortable and sporty shoes and stay hydrated to eliminate most hazards while climbing up the stairs.  Where To Stay Near The Ambuluwawa Tower?  You can stay in Kandy or Gampola for a comfortable visit to the Ambuluwawa Tower. However, Kandy is a better option to find an accommodation if you want to combine the tower visit with other day trips.  Nevertheless, there are some of the best places to stay in Kandy.  1. Kandu This guesthouse is simple, and it is ideal for budget-friendly travelers. Furthermore, it is very close to the City Center, and you will get a complimentary breakfast here.  2. SWP Eco Lodge It is the most scenic of all the accommodations in Kandy, as it is on the Kandy Lake. So, it overlooks the Temple of the Tooth and the lake.  Furthermore, the rooms here have large balconies.  3. The Summit The Summit is known for its beautiful terrace. However, it is a bit pricey. So, it is ideal for luxury travelers.  4. McLeod-Inn I stayed at McLeod Inn. I chose it because of its location up the hill. Tuk-tuks are frequently available, and they took me to the McLeod Inn.  Moreover, the ambiance was very peaceful there, and the views were amazing. Ambuluwawa Tower: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Ambuluwawa Tower.  1. How Long Does It Take To Climb The Ambuluwawa Tower? As you take the tuk-tuk from the entrance, you will reach the base of the tower in 20-30 minutes. Furthermore, from the base, it will take around 15-20 minutes to climb up the tower. 2. Can I Visit The Ambuluwawa Tower With Children? Yes, you can visit the tower with young children. However, one has to climb 55 steep stairs to climb up the tower, and the stairs can be narrow. Also, it is very windy atop. So, I think, bring your children at least when they are 6-7 years old.  3. Who Built The Ambuluwawa Tower?  The completion of the Ambuluwawa Tower was done in 2006. The Local Government of Gampola and the Central Environmental Authority started the construction of this tower. Moreover, celebrating the religious harmony and inclusive spirit of Sri Lanka was the main intention behind the construction of this tower. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 24, 2023

The Canary Islands, including Tenerife, are genuinely exceptional places on earth. Because of the island's volcanic and windy nature, volcano hikers and daring beach and watersports enthusiasts flock to it. Tenerife, which boasts a varied landscape and a warm winter climate, attracts millions of adventure seekers each year. March to May or September to November are the ideal times to visit Tenerife. Nonetheless, Tenerife is a fantastic destination all year round due to its subtropical climate, providing sunshine all year round. This Tenerife travel guide will walk you through all the hidden gems and unique locations while driving and hiking the island. Additionally, it will provide you with plenty of helpful advice on transportation for the best travel experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Tenerife. Let’s GO! Overview timeout.com Tenerife is an island that was once part of the Spanish-ruled Canary Islands. It is home to the archipelago's principal economic hub. It is situated 300 kilometers in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. The flight from Dublin or London takes about four hours. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro are the seven islands that make up the Canary Islands Archipelago. On the island, there are two international airports: South-Reina Sofia Airport (TFS), Los Rodeos in the North – Aeropuerto de Tenerife Norte-Ciudad de La Laguna (TFN). The island's moderate tropical climate draws tourists all year long. The year-round average temperature is 26–27 centigrade during summers and 19–20 centigrade during winters. Two nearby islands, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, are thought to be the windiest Canary Islands. However, Tenerife is a haven for surfers and wave lovers due to its relatively windy climate. Tenerife is home to some amazing sights and exhilarating adventures in addition to its vibrant nightlife and gorgeous girls. Here are some activities, sights, and things to do in Tenerife that you should definitely include on your itinerary. Things To Do In Tenerife production.imgix.net Teide National Park: Don't forget to see Mount Teide, Spain's highest mountain. Experience breathtaking panoramic views by riding the cable car to the summit. Masca: Take in the quaint village of Masca, which is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Take a boat ride from Los Gigantes to see the ravine's beauty from the water, or hike through its picturesque ravine. Watching whales and dolphins in their natural habitat: Take a boat tour to witness these amazing animals. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will bring some magic to your guys' vacation. Water Sports: Exhilarating water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and even scuba diving will make your heart race. The pristine waters of Tenerife are your playground. Quad Biking: Take a daring quad biking adventure through Tenerife's rough terrain to unleash your inner explorer. Explore off the beaten track and unearth hidden treasures. Things To Do In Tenerife: Beaches Like all the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a volcano. Tenerife has a small number of stunning black-sand beaches, one of which you should definitely visit! These three stunning beaches in Tenerife have golden sand: La Tejita Beach is a magical beach that's close to La Tejita town and South-Reina Sofia Airport (TFS) on the southern part of the island. Las Teresitas (on the left photo) is a town on the eastern side of Tenerife, about 12 km from the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and 20 km from the northern airport. A lovely beach with lots of tourists. Southwest of the island, at Las Vistas Amazing beaches with black sand in Tenerife: The photo on the right depicts Los Gigantes Benijo Playa del Castillo Playa El Bullullo; scroll down to see Restaurante Bollullo Beach! Things To Do In Tenerife: Nightlife pinimg.com Let's talk about the vibrant nightlife and delectable food scene, which are the lifeblood of any lad's vacation. There are plenty of hotspots in Tenerife that can keep the party going and satisfy your palate. Take a look at these dining and entertainment options: Veronicas Strip: For guys looking for a wild night out, this storied party area in Playa de las Americas is a must-visit. It's the place to be for an amazing evening, full of clubs, bars, and gorgeous people. Papagayo Beach Club: One of the finest parties on the island is held at this beachside club, where you can dance the night away. Papagayo is a surefire hit thanks to its amazing ocean views and stellar DJ lineup. Monkey Beach Club: This vibrant location offers a variety of live music events, DJ sets, and themed parties. Drink cool cocktails and socialize with visitors and locals alike. Things To Do In Tenerife: Food tenerifewhattodo.com Taste a range of authentic Spanish tapas dishes at Tapas Alley in La Laguna. Treat yourself to a culinary adventure there. It's a fantastic way to refuel before going out. San Telmo Night Market: Visit Puerto de la Cruz every Tuesday and Sunday to take in the lively San Telmo Night Market. Numerous street food vendors will be present, serving up delectable delicacies from all over the world. Seafood Feast At Los Abrigos: Indulge in a delectable seafood feast at Los Abrigos, a charming fishing village. Savor local specialties like grilled octopus and fresh fish while taking in breathtaking views of the ocean. You'll need a cozy spot to unwind and refuel after an exciting day and evening of partying. There are several lodging options in Tenerife to fit every taste and budget. Look at these recommendations: Things To Do In Tenerife: Luxury Hotels Experience the ultimate in luxury at the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife, a legendary establishment renowned for its opulent amenities, breathtaking ocean views, and rock 'n' roll atmosphere. Tenerife has good lodging options. This means it won't be difficult for you to enjoy a little luxury while visiting. Situated slightly outside of a popular tourist area, La Casa Nova Hotel & Restaurant is a special location. It costs between $60 and $70 per night, which includes a full breakfast. The hotel had a very lovely pool with baldachin beds; it was a very appealing location. Bahía del Duque: This five-star resort offers a range of opulent amenities and top-notch service, combining elegance and natural beauty. Things To Do In Tenerife: Budget-Friendly Hotels bstatic.com Los Amigos Hotel: Perfect for lads on a budget, this friendly hostel in Playa de las Americas offers affordable accommodation, a sociable atmosphere, and a central location. Tenerife Ving: Situated in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife Ving provides comfortable and budget-friendly apartments, ideal for lads looking for a cozy base. Booking.com: Check out Booking.com's extensive selection of apartment rentals. You'll find a wide range of options to fit your needs and budget, from chic city apartments to contemporary beachfront apartments. Wrapping Up Tenerife's breathtaking scenery, exhilarating experiences, exciting nightlife, and delectable cuisine are waiting for you. This sun-drenched paradise has it all, whether you're exploring the island's natural wonders or going out for an incredible night on the town. Gather your friends, prepare your belongings, and get set up for the trip of a lifetime for the guys. Now that you know all the things to do in Tenerife, it's time to pack your bags. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Brighton Bliss: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Getaway Itinerary Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire

BY  Mashum Oct 19, 2022

Every Indian has at least once visited the beautiful snowy hills of Shimla, located in the lap of Himachal Pradesh. If you are thinking of traveling to Shimla for your vacation, you can do that anytime you want. Ideally, there is no best time to visit Shimla, you can visit there anytime you want. Welcome To Shimla! Shimla, also known as Simla until the year 1972, is a city in Himachal Pradesh, in North India. Due to its scenic beauty, mountain landscape, and old English architecture, no doubt it is known as the Summer capital of British India. The beautiful oak trees, colonial old English-style architecture, and an ancient feel are what attract visitors to Shimla. But if you are still wondering when to visit Shimla, then you need to keep on scrolling down the article. Best Time To Visit Shimla Even though you are traveling solo to Shimla or looking for the best time to visit Shimla for honeymoon, then keep on scrolling to know the best time to visit Shimla.  Oct - Feb ❄️Jul - Sept 🌧️Mar - Jun ☀️-7 to 10c10 - 20cc15 - 30c 1. March To June The summer and spring months start from the month of March and continue till the month of June. After long and extreme winter months, the summer months are quite pleasant for tourists looking for the best time to visit Shimla. The temperature around this time rotates around 16c to 30c. The days are quite warmer and rather enjoyable, with a wide range of greenery, colors of blooming flowers, and melting snow. The roads here are clear and without any blockage and interruptions along the way. This way, you can enjoy every nook and cranny of the beautiful city of Shimla. Even though you should carry warm clothes with you, it would be wiser to carry light clothes as well if your tolerance for colder weather is high. 2. July To September Just like any other hill station here in India, the monsoon months are regarded as the offseason for tourists and visitors. With heavy rainfall, landslides, and roadblocks, the monsoon months may not be the best time to visit Shimla. The average amount of rainfall that Shimla receives is more than 1400mm, and the temperature is around 14c to 20c. But the best deal for adventurers during the monsoon months is that since it is the offseason for tourism, huge discounts are given by hotels and lodgings. But if you are willing to take the risk of visiting there during the monsoon months, then you should consider all the dangers ahead of time. 3. October To February One of the best time to visit Shimla for snowfall is during the winter months. The winter months are what attract most of the tourism here in Shimla. The temperature during the winter months ranges from -6c to the highest at 8c. The snow-covered mountain tops are a sight to see for the sore eyes, and if you are lucky enough,, you can also witness snowfall here. Winter months are just magical for the countryside as it is in the citylights here in Shimla. You are definitely going to enjoy every cozy night with your friends, family, or partner, or adventure sports out in the snow. Different Climates In Shimla When you want to visit any hill station, it is very important that you have thorough knowledge about all the potential risks and dangers of the place. 1. Summer In Shimla Summer months is the most enjoyable for tourists who are not too comfortable with the snow and cold climate. Other than going for adventure sports in the snow, there are many adventure sports available during the summer months as well. Adventure sports such as paragliding, trekking, rafting, and camping. Even if you are not into all these activities, then during summer, the summer festival is the best entertainment experience that you want to experience. Activities like folk dancing, musical performances, and flower shops go on for about five days. This festival first started in the early 60s, with thousands of visitors visiting each year. 2. Monsoon In Shimla Since the monsoon is usually considered an offseason, there are not a lot of activities to do around this time of the year. But the Rhyali festival, or the monsoon festival, is one of the most attractive attractions during this time of the year. The festival is celebrated in honor of the rain god to appease him in order to have a prosperous agricultural year.  But during the monsoon, the water-washed hill station gives a fresh perspective to the landscape. 3. Winter In Shimla The white fluffy snow-covered mountaintop of Shimla looks like a magical place indeed. With lots of adventure sports such as ice skating and skiing. One of the best places to travel to in Shimla is Mashobra, Kufri, and Narkanda. If you are traveling to Shimla during the month of December, then you should definitely stay till Christmas and New Year in here. The hill station is beautifully decked up during this time, and it is possible that you will celebrate a white Christmas here in Shimla. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) If you have any more queries about the best time to visit Shimla, then here are a few questions you might find helpful. 1. In Which Month Snow Falls In Shimla? The months from October to February, this is the time of the year in Shimla when you are able to witness actual snowfall and a snow-covered hill station. 2. Is 2 Days Enough For Shimla? Traveling to Shimla during an optimal season would take about 3 days and 2 nights to witness the majesty of the whole hill station. Hiring a car or a bike to travel would help you a lot to travel the whole hilly region. 3. Is It A Good Time To Visit Shimla Now? If you want to experience summertime in Shimla, then the best time to visit Shimla is for the months of March to June. But if you want to witness the winter months, then you would want to visit here during the months of November to February. Visit Now! Shimla is one of the most naturally aesthetically pleasing hill stations in India. It is a must-visit place in India, but you need to know the best time to visit Shimla. So when you are backpacking to Shimla on your next vacation, then don’t forget to pack all the warm clothes.