Pigeon Forge Indoor Adventures: From Go-Karts To Laser Tag

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 8, 2022

When you tell somebody, you are planning a trip to Italy. They always answer, “You must visit Florence in Tuscany!”. Florence is a typical river city developed on the two banks of the Arno, a city rich in history and art. Founded and inhabited by Italic people, Florence extends into a green plain, which is surrounded by hills dotted with cypresses, and olive trees, and also crossed by the Arno river. But above all: a city breathing art and culture everywhere!  No wonder Ginori 1735, the iconic porcelain brand, partnered with St. Regis Hotels & Resorts to present Café Ginori.  Café Ginori will blend the elegance of Italian cuisine with Italian artistry to make the tourism experience in Florence more happening.  So, what are the special attractions or the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany? This Tour and Travel blog has all the answers. Special Attractions Of Florence in Tuscany Many of the travelers are asking, is Tuscany in Florence? And what is there? In the past years, it has been awarded internationally as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You are standing in the middle cradle of the Renaissance. The city is the hub of extraordinary literary, artistic, and scientific development that took place in the 14th-16th centuries. To visit Florence in Tuscany really means jumping back in time!  Note: Appreciated more than anything else is the urban architecture and the presence of traces of a glorious past on every street corner;  with the most iconic places such as the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, etc. You Should Visit Florence For Its Art And Culture Known throughout the world for its artistic masterpieces, the colored marbles of the churches, and the high-sounding architecture, Florence is the city of the Medici, an ancient Tuscan family that became one of the most important dynasties in Italy and Europe. Nowadays, it is home to the most beautiful and important museums in the world; to name a few: the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace, Florence Cathedral and the Opera del Duomo museum, etc. Best Places To Visit In Florence, Tuscany, To Celebrate Its Art And Culture  With seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, Florence sees tourism as a key resource. Further, its average annual tourism revenue is 300 million euros, establishing its position as a global travel destination.  Further, Florence has places like San Casciano dei Bagni within 200 km that are growing as tourism hubs individually.  San Casciano dei Bagni has won the laurel of “Best Tourism Village” from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This village is growing for its rich biodiversity and culture.  “San Casciano dei Bagni receiving the ‘Best Tourism Village’ recognition is a testament to the charm and authenticity of Italy’s smaller gems. These villages showcase the excellence of our craftsmanship, gastronomy, traditions, and culture, representing the heart of our national heritage.”Daniela Santanchè, Italian Tourism Minister Nevertheless, these are the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany.  1. Piazza del Duomo Piazza del Duomo, with its bell tower, Baptistery, and cathedral, is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. Also, don’t forget to visit Ponte Vecchio.  2. Uffizi Gallery Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Uffizi Gallery houses the best collection of paintings and artwork from the medieval era to the modern period.  It was built between 1560 and 1580. 3. Piazza della Signoria Piazza della Signoria is the central square of Florence. It always has a lively ambiance and is Florence's epicenter of history and art.  4. Palazzo Vecchio Location: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Friday-Wednesday (9 AM to 7 PM), Thursday (9 AM to 2 PM) Palazzo Vecchio was built between 1299 and 1314 and was once the home and workplace of the Signoria of Florence.  5. The Accademia Gallery Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:15 AM to 6:20 PM, (Monday Closed) The Accademia Gallery is home to David by Michelangelo. It is the second-most visited museum in Florence after the Uffizi Gallery.  6. Pitti Palace Location: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Once a symbol of the power of the Medicis in Tuscany, Pitti Palace, or Palazzo Pitti, was also the seat of the House of Habsburg-Lorraine and House of Savoy.  7. Florence Cathedral Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or Florence Cathedral, is the Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Florence. The church, founded in 1296, was consecrated in 1436 by Pope Eugenio IV. It stands out with its huge dome structure.  8. Opera Del Duomo Museum Location: Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 7 PM Built in 1891 and renovated in 2015, Opera Del Duomo Museum has the original artwork of the greatest artists and sculptors across seven centuries.  Here, you will find the work of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, and many others.  9. Florence City Center Covering an area of 505 ha, the Florence City Center still has the 14th-century boundary walls.  Also, it is a symbol of the Renaissance during the early Medici rule.  10. Siena City Center Siena City Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Tuscan Hills. It is famous for its food scene and medieval buildings.  11. Pienza The Historic Centre of the City of Pienza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. It is also famous for its town-planning concepts during the Renaissance period.  12. San Gimignano San Gimignano, or the Town of Five Towers, will transport you to the medieval era. A preserved hill town, it also has Civic Museums, Contemporary art, and holy art.  13. Piazza Dei Miracoli (Pisa) The Piazza Dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an architectural wonder.  Further, located in a port city, the Piazza Dei Miracoli is an expression of human creativity.  14. Villas And Giardini Medicei  With 14 villas and gardens, Villas And Giardini Medicei is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany.  One of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany, Villas and Giardini Medicei, gives you an insight into the family that played prominent roles in the history of Italy and Europe during the 15th-18th century.  15. Val d’Orcia Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows the beauty of the countryside in Southern Tuscany. It is famous for its ecological uniqueness and stunning landscape. Culture Also Means Food And Wine But the only culture of Florence in Tuscany is not only art & history, and it means food and wine as well. Florence is a food city (delicious food), and you really can’t go there without trying out its local specials: that’s part of the experience!  Things you should try in Florence: 1. CHIANTI WINE  Chianti wine is a red blend of Tuscany that is made from Sangiovese grapes. These are common tasting notes which include different types of red fruits, smoke, dried herbs, balsamic vinegar, and game. Perfect for any kind of aperitivo admiring monuments or to accompany your dinners in Florence!  2. PICI Pici is a type of fresh pasta, similar to spaghetti, which is made with water, flour, and salt. A simple preparation, typical of the Tuscan culinary tradition: a "poor" dish linked to peasant cuisine. They can be combined with different condiments, thanks to their ability to adapt to various preparations: you can, in fact, make them with cheese and pepper, with crumbs, with garlic, with ragù, and in many other ways. Yummy!  3. FIORENTINA One of the most popular Italian steak dishes, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, is made of young steer or heifer that, in combination with the specific preparations. What preparations are turning it into one of the famous dishes in Tuscan cuisine.  It is a high cut, including the bone, and also cooked on the embers or on the grill, with a degree of "blood" cooking. Try to accompany this Florence in Tuscany special dish with your Chianti wine; a perfect combo.  Visit Florence For Its Welcoming People  Florence's inhabitants are something on their own; the Fiorentini are really strong characters, very different from the typical Italians international people know. The character of the Florentines is judged in a contradictory way. They are considered polite and honest, but their thriftiness, praised for being able to make money well, is often criticized. In Florence, people tend to say things to your face, and often when they do so, they are not too pleasant things. Don’t take it personally, it’s part of the culture! Learn some useful words:  Topping | Gnocchi Ganzo | Cool Grullo | A silly person Boncitto | A good guy Chetarsi | To be silent So Why Visit Florence? For many, Florence is a city they have only heard about, and important events and things to do, such as those in Rome or Venice, are not attributed to it. Wrong! Florence Is Full Of Things To Do!  Those who know the history of the world will know that Florence, with much of Italy, was the central hub of the Renaissance, and many works of art of the period can be found in this city. One of the most iconic sites that many are likely to recognize is the Duomo, a cathedral with a dome at its top.  The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence also exhibits Michelangelo's David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. When it comes to art and history, no one beats Florence for masterpieces! But there are also many fun activities for those who are not very interested in art. Tourists can take a day trip out of town and explore the wonderfully varied landscape of Florence in Tuscany. You can also taste local food and wines.  And events are also an option if you want to dive into the local culture for real. Music festivals, historical reviews, sports events, and much more! To learn everything about Florence and the reasons why you should visit it, learn more at www.ciaoflorence.it Reasons To Visit Florence In Tuscany |Ciao Florence Why should you visit Florence in Tuscany? Art, culture, food, and events. All you need to know about the city of Renaissance! Visit Ciao Florence. So when are you planning to visit Tuscany? Share your opinion through the comment sections.

BY  Sibashree Apr 25, 2025

Everyone these days is asking, “Is the Bahamas safe?” Unfortunately, Nassau, the Bahamas Capital, has been under the radar due to rising records of violent crimes, including murders, robberies, and sexual assaults.  However, it does not change the fact that Nassau is a wonderful place to plan a trip, as it is one of the best Caribbean destinations, fusing history, culture, nature, and wildlife. It also offers a delightful gastronomic experience and a luxury stay.  Additionally, the Bahamian Government has adopted a multifaceted approach to combating the rising crime rate. There have been stricter law enforcement measures, increased attention to social issues, and intelligence gathering to address the growing number of crimes.  So, despite most countries asking tourists to observe “extreme caution” during a trip to the Bahamas, we hope that things will get better soon.  And with great optimism, in this Tour and Travel Blog, we want to now discuss what are things to do in Nassau Bahamas. “How can we in this small society, how can we not be serious about crime issues when it affects all of us, all of our families, our friends who are dying, these young kids who should be living until they are 70 years of age, killing one another, for what reason? We don’t know.How do we intervene and stop people from doing it? We think that the answer is a long-term solution by starting by the proper investment in the social programs and education. We are doing that. We’re trying to improve the housing [situation]. We are doing that.”Fred Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Bahamas What Is Nassau Bahamas Best Known For? Nassau, the original land of the Pirates, is known for its multifaceted attractions as a tropical getaway.  You will fall in love with its white sandy beaches, rich history, cultural experiences, and laid-back charm. Rarely will you find another place where you can dive to a pirate shipwreck and visit a museum dedicated to the history of slavery and emancipation in one day.  I will discuss the top things to do in Nassau in more detail later. In this section, I'd like to give you a glimpse of the eclectic experience you can expect in Nassau.  And you must remember that the Bahamas is not a part of the US, and every tourist spot in the country is a testament to the country’s pride, way of living, and rich history. Types of Tourist Attractions in the BahamasPlaces to VisitHistorical and Cultural AttractionsParliament SquareThe Straw MarketFort FincastleChrist Church CathedralThe Pompey Museum of Slavery and EmancipationMarine AdventuresBimini IslandsExuma CayNew Providence Island and BREEF Coral Reef Sculpture GardenFood TourismDelicacies such as Johnny Cake and Conch Fritters make the Bahamas the ultimate destination for a foodie. The cuisine here shows eclectic influences, including European, African, and Caribbean cuisines. Visit the local eateries to taste the authentic flavors of the Bahamas. Beaches Junkanoo BeachCable BeachCabbage BeachMontagu BeachParadise Beach What Is The Best Time To Explore The Things To Do In Bahamas Nassau? December to April is the best time to visit Nassau and explore its top attractions. The temperature in these months ranges between 25 and 27 degrees Celsius.  Additionally, you will enjoy extended daylight hours during these months.  These months are ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local attractions.  Moreover, events such as the Farmer's Cay Festival (Early February), the Sailing Regatta on New Year’s Day, and the Junkanoo Festival in December and January take place during these months.  Refer to the table below to learn about the weather conditions in Nassau by month. It will give you a fair idea about the best time to plan a trip to Nassau. Nassau Weather by MonthHighest TemperatureLowest TemperatureDays of RainfallJanuary25175February26185March27196April28218May29229June302412July312513August322515September322415October332310November30208December27196 What Are The Top Things To Do In Nassau? Finally, it’s time to discuss what are fun things to do in Nassau Bahamas. Let’s discuss the top attractions. 1. Visiting Paradise Island You can begin exploring Nassau with a short trip to Paradise Island. It has powdery sand and turquoise water.  Further, it is ideal for water activities such as diving and snorkeling.  2. Exploring Fort Fincastle Start from the Central Square of Nassau and climb the 66 limestone stairs to reach Fort Fincastle, the highest point in Nassau.  The stairs and the castle have a history dating back to the 1700s. Also, once you reach Fort Fincastle, you will fall in love with the surroundings.  3. Take A Walk In Versailles Garden And French Cloister Do you want to experience a slice of French aristocracy in the Bahamas? Plan a visit to the Versailles Garden and French Cloister.  The Cloister was earlier a French Monastery. It was reconstructed, and now it looks like the centerpiece of the Versailles Garden. 4. Shop At The Straw Market If you are looking for the perfect Bahamanian souvenir, the Straw Market will be your go-to destination.  Here, you will find handicraft items made of straws and conch shells.  5. Visit The Atlantis Aquarium and Aquaventure Water Park Grab the day passes, and explore the underwater scenarios of the lagoons, and meet marine animals at Atlantis Aquarium. Here, you will get to see stingrays.  Once you are done exploring the aquarium, you can dive into the water at Aquaventure Water Park.  6. Plan A Boat Trip To The Blue Lagoon Island Take a 15-minute boat ride from Nassau and reach the Blue Lagoon Island for the most delightful encounters with the dolphins.  Also, you can kayak, boat, or snorkel in the hidden lagoon there to make the most of the blue water fun! 7. Taste The Spirit Of The Bahamas At John’s Watling’s Distillery It’s time to taste the “Spirit of the Bahamas” or the “Liquid Gold.” It’s a sin if you miss out on tasting the best Rum at John’s Watling’s Distillery.  John Watling was a pirate, and there are still many myths around his life. Take a complimentary tour of the distillery seven days a week if you are looking for free things to do in Nassau.  8. Visit The Pirates of Nassau Museum Do you want to have an interactive high-experience? Why not plan a visit to the Pirates of Nassau Museum? The replicas of the pirate ships are stunning, and they will take you back to the 18th century. It was the time when the city indeed was the golden land of the pirates. 9. Visit The Stuart Cove And Dive With Sharks Are you a certified scuba diver? Go for a dive at the Stuart Cove and have a lifetime experience of your encounters with the sharks. 10. Explore The Clifton Heritage National Park A diverse ecosystem and the historical relics associated with the Lucayan people are the biggest draws to the Clifton Heritage National Park.  Further, it is the location of the celebrated movies like “Jaws” and it has featured in a few movies of the James Bond series.  You will love the beaches here. However, the real fun awaits under the water when you snorkel and explore the sunken shipwrecks.  11. Having Fun With The Pigs In The Water If you scroll through the reels and videos on Nassau in Instagram, the videos of people having fun in the water with pigs are the most common.  These wild pigs live in Big Major Cay, and thus, it is known as Pig Beach in The Exumas.  However, if you are in Nassau, you don’t need to visit the Pig Beach if you are in Nassau. In fact, visiting Pig Beach is quite expensive and difficult from Nassau.  So, you can visit the Rose Island or Pearl Island from Nassau for a similar experience. Many companies, such as J&S Tours, conduct such tours.  As I joined such a tour, I could feed pasta, chicken, and fruit to these pigs. These pigs are harmless. However, remember that these are wild animals. So, you must be careful in your interaction with them.  12. Exploring The Nassau Straw Market If you want to experience the cultural landscape of Nassau, you must explore the Nassau Straw Market.  It is a hub of local handicrafts, and along with straw handicrafts, you will also get short glasses and T-shirts.  Among the straw products, bowls, bags, and hats are the most common.  Also, remember to carry cash if you want to buy straw products and other souvenirs from this market.  In addition, it is best to take help from a local when purchasing these souvenirs, as you will have to negotiate with the buyers for quick discounts.  So, Is Nassau, Bahamas Worth Visiting? With the best things to do in Nassau being very diverse, and as the capital of an important Caribbean nation, Nassau is absolutely worth visiting.  Furthermore, the beaches, parks, marine attractions, and historical sites offer something for every type of tourist.  However, the rising crime rate is a concern for the tourism industry of Nassau and the Bahamas. The US Travel Advisory mentions, “Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. Stay alert in the "Over the Hill" area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents.” Hopefully, as promised, the Government will combat this issue through social developments, stricter regulations, and intelligence gathering.  It is important to consolidate the over 11 million visitors to the country in 2024. Unique Things To Do In Nassau, Bahamas: More Things You Need To Know Here is some additional information you need to learn about things to do in Nassau, Bahamas.  1. What To Do In Nassau, Bahamas For Free? There is no dearth of free and cheap things to do in Nassau Bahamas. Based on your interest, you can take a walking tour of Arawak Cay, Bay Street, Parliament Square, and Straw Market.  Furthermore, you can visit historical sites such as the Queen's Staircase, Christ Church Anglican Cathedral, and Fort Fincastle. 2. What Are The Free Things To Do In Nassau, Bahamas Cruise Port? A visit to Arawak Cay is one of the most exciting free things to do in the Nassau Cruise Port. Arawak Cay is just a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride from Nassau Cruise Port.  You can even visit the nearby Straw Market, enjoy swimming and sunbathing at Junkanoo Beach, and do window shopping at Bay Street. 3. What Are The Things To Do In Nassau, Bahamas For Adults? Nassau has a very vibrant nightlife. The bars, lounges, and casinos in Nassau will shower you with the best hours of fun and games.  So, if you are an adult and want to experience a slice of the Nassau nightlife, you can visit Atlantis Casino and Baha Mar Casino. 4. What To Do In Nassau For A Day? You can accomplish a great deal in Nassau in one day. Having said that, you need at least 4-5 days to explore the best of Nassau.  If I were in Nassau for just one day, I would take a short boat ride to Blue Lagoon Island. You can also try snorkeling and swimming at Cable Beach.  Furthermore, if you are a history enthusiast, you can plan a visit to the Pirate Museum, Fort Fincastle, Bay Street, Clifton Heritage National Park, and Rawson Square and Parliament Square.  Also, for some relaxed time in nature, you can go for a walk in the Versailles Garden and the French Cloister or Ardastra Gardens and Zoo.  5. What Are The Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas For Couples? Nassau, especially Paradise Island, is an ideal destination for couples seeking a truly romantic experience.  You will love the pristine beaches with white sand here. Additionally, the turquoise water here creates a serene ambiance.  So, as a couple, you can plan a cruise trip to Paradise Island in Nassau. Also, you can plan a stay in any of the luxury hotels or resorts on Paradise Island.  Hotels like Sandals Royal Bahamian further offer adult-only stays. So, it’s time to get soaked in steamy romance.  6. What Are The Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas When On A Cruise? The cruise tourism industry in the Bahamas has experienced significant growth over the last few years. In the 2023-24 cruise year, the cruise tourism industry in the Bahamas recorded a whopping $654.8 million in revenue. The diverse experiences during a cruise trip in the Bahamas have prompted growth in the specific sector.  Additionally, if you are in Nassau on a cruise, the best activities to do will depend on your interests.  For example, if you have a keen interest in history and culture, you must explore places such as Queen's Staircase, John Watling's Distillery, Straw Market, Fort Fincastle and Government House, and Parliament Square.  However, if you want to have some fun at the beach, Blue Lagoon Island, Cabbage Beach, Paradise Island, and Exuma Cay will be your go-to destinations.  7. What Are The Things To Do In Nassau When It Rains? June to November are the months with the heaviest rainfall in Nassau, Bahamas. August is the wettest month of the year, with an average rainfall of 24 cm.  Heavy rainfall continues till October (16 cm), and from September to November, the Bahamas also experiences tropical storms.  Having said that, a rainy day without storms is beautiful in the Bahamas, and the things to do are a visit to Paradise Island and Rose Island, reef snorkeling, parasailing, and a swim with pigs on Rose Island.  Also, if you are an indoor person, a visit to the Baha Mar Casino is one of the fun things to do in Nassau on a rainy day.

BY  Sibashree Mar 11, 2026

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