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BY  Sibashree Mar 11, 2026

I traveled extensively across Jaffna, the Tamil heartland of Sri Lanka. The Delft Island, a boat ride away, offered the most historically and culturally enriching experience during my entire Jaffna trip. Yes, the day trip to Delft Island was a bit rushed, as you have to catch the 8 AM boat from Kurikadduwan Jetty. Otherwise, your entire day will be ruined. However, after traveling 30 kms off the coast of Jaffna, Delft Island unfolded its mystery before my eyes. Overall, it is a limestone and coral island that has all the drama. At the same time, there is something very authentic about this island. Local history and culture exude through every corner. That is what won me over as a follower of the TravelDownUnder principles. Here is more in this travel guide. I will begin with where Delft Island is located and the modes of travel to and around Delft Island. Then, I will talk about its history, significance, and things to see. Where Is Delft Island? Delft Island is in the Palk Strait, and it separates Southern India from Sri Lanka. It is a small island with a maximum width of 6 km and a length of 8 km. With such a tiny landscape, it is surprising to find out how much the island has to offer to the visitors.  How To Visit Delft Island From Jaffna? As I have mentioned, if you include a visit to Delft Island in your Jaffna travel itinerary, you have to be very particular about your timings. You have to reach Kurikadduwan Harbour at least by 7:30 AM to catch the ferry at 8 AM. To reach the harbour, you will have to take bus 776 from the Jaffna Bus Station, or you can take a tuk-tuk.  The bus ticket costs LKR 90, and the tuk-tuk ride costs LKR 2000. Furthermore, the return ferry from Delft Island starts at 2:30 PM. Once you reach the Kurikadduwan Jetty, you will get the bus to Jaffna. The return bus was very crowded, and you must not expect the best infrastructure during the jetty ride. Still, the hassle is worth it. How To Move Around Delft Island? Once you arrive on Delft Island, you can take a tuk-tuk ride to explore the main attractions. Many tuk-tuk drivers wait for the tourists aligned with the arrival time of the ferries. You can book a tuk-tuk ride for 4-5 hours, and the cost will be around LKR 2000-2500. Why Visit Delft Island, Jaffna? The history of Delft Island goes back to the time of the Chola Dynasty. Since then, the island has gone through various reigns, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and finally the British colonial periods. As you walk through the roads graced by palm trees and the sea breeze touches your cheeks, you will find how history speaks here, through the ruins, dirt roads, coral walls, and quaint villages. You suddenly start missing your home, especially the afternoons of summer vacations, when time was simpler. There is a rustic charm here that you cannot miss. The locals here are very hospitable. However, the only thing I missed was that there were no restaurants. So, if you are planning a food tour in Jaffna, Delft Island can be a disappointment. Still, here are more reasons to visit this beautiful coral island. Delft Island: A True Hidden Gem And In Close Encounter With Nature After Lonely Planet named Sri Lanka the best travel destination in the world in 2019, Colombo and Kandy became overcrowded. That’s a big turn-off for backpackers like me. So, it’s important to find a break in the north of the country and visit Jaffna temples and other attractions, where you can experience the spirituality, understand the local people, and most importantly, experience the story of human resilience. This is because this part of the country is still rebuilding after the civil war ended in 2009. Delft Island. Jaffna takes these humane aspects and the rawness of Northern Sri Lanka to a new level. In this age of 5G, Delft Island still has 3G connections. Also, the rise in sea levels still impacts the crops, ancient sites, homes, and the entire livelihood of the island. So, when I started exploring the island, I had to walk through the ankle-deep water in the fields. I had no problems in cherishing the experience as everything reminded me of my home.  Stories That Make Delf Island Fascinating Ancient Tamil legends and forgotten colonial ambitions have intertwined in the landscape and livelihood of Delf Island. Moreover, you have to listen to the inside stories here if you enjoy a good mix of history and local folklore. 1. The Growing Stone  There is a limestone outcrop on the island that keeps growing physically. Now, scientifically, it is the calcite and coral deposits that are to be blamed for the growth. However, for local devotees and the followers of Lord Mahadeva like me, it is a Swayambhu Lingam. This self-manifested form of Lord Shiva resembles Nakathampiran, or a multi-headed cobra. I made some offerings there, following the local customs, and had my moments. 2. The Giant’s Footprint Nobody Remembers The indentation close to the Sarapiddi area grabbed my attention. It was around 40 inches in length. There is a local belief that this is the left footprint of Lord Hanuman. Some even say that it is the footprint of Lord Shiva. Nevertheless, a similar indentation, resembling the right foot of the same identity, can be found on the Neduntheevu island. 3. The Wild Ponies And Their Secret Lives The Portuguese and the Dutch brought the wild ponies here. These feral ponies are the descendants of the European mares and Arabian stallions. They grew in numbers and were celebrated during the time of Lieutenant Nolan. He conducted a huge horse-breeding program. By the end of the British Era, most of these ponies were abandoned, and today they are a protected species of the island. So, you cannot take them outside the island. 4. The King Vedi Arasan Vedi Arasan, or the King of Firecrackers, was a celebrated Mukkuvar king here. He was the helm of the pearl trade in the Palk Strait. Furthermore, local stories suggest that the Dutch Fort was built on the foundation of the king’s ancient palace. 5. The Pigeon Cote Or The Dove Cote  The Pigeon Cote or the Dove Cote near the ruins of the Dutch Hospital is a witness to the colonial past of the island. It is 2 meters in length, and it shows how pigeons used to function as the physical internet connection. They were trained, and they used to fly between the Jaffna Mainland and the Delft Island. Though the pigeons were used to carry military dispatches, they were also used for the dissemination of personal letters. 6. The Massive Baobab Tree  The Baobab Tree is a telltale of how Arab traders enjoyed supremacy in this region. The hollow in the trunk of this ancient tree is large enough to accommodate two people.  Furthermore, prisoners were often kept inside the big hollow during transition.  What Are The Things To See In Delft Island, Jaffna? Delft Island may be small in size. However, its diverse cultural and historical attractions will keep you busy. However, these are the attractions you must not miss. The Portuguese And Dutch Fort  This fort is one of the most prominent attractions on Delft Island. It is a free place to visit. The Portuguese built this fort, and then the Dutch occupied it. Moreover, this fort has a coral and limestone structure. So, it stands out because of its unique architecture. The Baobab Tree  The Arab merchants brought the giant baobab tree in the 16th century. You suddenly feel that you are in Africa. The Old Dutch Hospital And Pigeon Nest  The Dutch built this hospital, and in the early 1900s, it became an administrative center. You can still see an inscription of the British Emblem on the Courts. Furthermore, the Pigeon cote or pigeon nest near the hospital shows how pigeons used to function as messengers between Jaffna Mainland and Delft Island. Where To Eat And Drink On The Delft Island? You can eat at the Delft Hotel near the jetty. You can eat parathas, rice, wade, and dosai. Also, you will find many local vendors selling snacks. However, you will not find a hotel on Delft Island. So, carry adequate snacks and water when traveling to Delft Island.

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2024

What is a national park to you? For me, it is a place that brings together nature, history, culture, and outdoor pursuits. Killarney National Park, which has been recently in the news for all the good reasons, is not an exception, for sure! Also, this national park in a 300-year-old town surely has many tales to tell. It is also related to Irish folklore, as you can hear “Banshee’s Wail” in this park.  Moreover, it’s great that woodpeckers have started breeding in the national park for the first time in centuries, and the spotted chicks of woodpeckers look the cutest.   Again, the release of four white-tailed eagle chicks in the national park grabbed much attention. Further, this is an endeavor to bring back the eagles, which were extinct in Ireland.   In addition, there has been a renewed interest in the park among locals thanks to the 100th anniversary of the “Elizabeth Rose” in September 20241. This year, the Muckross Rowing Club and the Muckross Rowing Club Festival this year will celebrate the centenary of “Elizabeth Rose Killarney Six,” the first traditional racing boat to hit the Lakes of Killarney.   So, with all the focus now on Killarney National Park, let’s try to learn more about it.   Where Is The Killarney National Park?  Killarney National Park, the first national park in Ireland, is in County Kerry, southwest Ireland. Killarney town is beside County Kerry.   Further, with an extensive range of wildlife species, this park basks in exceptional ecological value. Moreover, spreading across 10,000 hectares, it has mountains, waterfalls, woodlands, and lakes.   How To Reach Killarney National Park  The cheapest way to reach Killarney National Park is to take a train to the Killarney railway station. Further, from the railway station, you must take just a 10-minute ride to the national park.   The N71 road is the main access point to the national park. However, you can also reach the park by bus or car.   Things You Cannot Miss At Killarney National Park  Killarney National Park is incomparable with its wilderness, and a large part of this national park has been unperturbed for hundreds of years. It is also home to some rare species, like red deer. In fact, the red deer herb currently residing in Killarney National Park is the last herd in Ireland.   Further, the national park has walking and hiking trails, such as the Dundag to Torc Path trail, Old Kenmare Road, and Mossy Woods. Moreover, you can climb the Mangerton and Purple mountains to explore a beautiful vista of the park and its surrounding areas.   So, let’s discuss all the activities at Killarney National Park in detail.   Exploring The Wildlife In Killarney National Park  This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (1981) is home to Reenadinna Woods and the hub of protected and rare flora. Moreover, it has many endangered and rare mammals, reptiles, and amphibian’s species.   Plants, Animals, And Other Creatures In Killarney National Park Conserved Animals/Birds Red Deer Herd Irish Cuckoo, and Eagle Rare Species of Fauna Native Kerry Cattle Herd Caddisfly Northern Emerald Dragonfly  Rare and Protected Flora St. Patrick’s Cabbage Mountain Sorrel Greater Butterwort Green Spleenwort, and Blue-eyed Grass Mammals Red Deer Wolves Irish Hare Otter Birds White-tailed Sea Eagle Barn Owl Kingfisher Woodpecker Amphibians Smooth Newt Reptiles Viviparous Lizard Other Fauna  Kerry Slug Freshwater Pearl Mussel Marsh Fritillary Atlantic Salmon  It is due to the vast presence of various plants and animals, Killarney National Park promotes responsible behaviors and activities during your outdoor pursuits. Further, you can visit the national park with dogs, but it is better to avoid bringing them to the park during breeding season.   Hiking In Killarney National Park  You will find many trails to cycle or walk in the national park. All the trails offer you the opportunity to explore the wildlife and unique geology of the national park. Here, I will briefly discuss three such hiking and walking trails, but there are plenty more.   Ross Island Mining Trail  How about visiting a 15th-century castle in its full architectural glory? The Ross Island mining trail will take you to Ross Castle. On this trail, you will also find the oldest known metal mine in Ireland. It is even the oldest in the entire Western Europe.   This 3 Km trail will take you around 1.5 hours to complete, and it is the most favorite trail for history lovers. The encampments, ruins, and mines tell the stories of human lives and the economy of a bygone era. You will even get to see some rare flora on this trail.   Knockreer Circular Walk  As the name suggests, the trail is circular, taking you to almost all accessible parts of the national park. You can walk or cycle on this trail to encounter the endangered red deer and enjoy the beauty of the MacGillycuddy Reeks and Lough Leane.   If you want to catch some refreshments, you will find Deenagh Lodge here. Some of the ascents in the hike are tricky, but the overall experience is wholesome, with good food and the company of nature.   Muckross House to Torc Waterfall Lake Loop  The Muckross House to Torc Waterfall Lake Loop trail is ideal for families. The trail is a little challenging. However, the panoramic vista of the Middle Lake and the view of the limestone cliffs make the effort worth it.  You can continue hiking through the woods and then take the stone steps to reach the woods down. Further, from the woods, you will get to behold the Torc Waterfall. Also, this 18m high waterfall is quite powerful.   An Encounter With History And Culture At The Killarney National Park Heritage Sites   Killarney National Park has many heritage sites that tell the tales of human history and life. Further, a trip to the park is incomplete without exploring these places.  Name Of The Heritage Sites Things To Know  Muckross Abbey Graveyard It has modern and old Irish graveyards.  Also, it has the graves of 17th and 18th-century Gaelic poets, such as Geoffrey O’Donoghue, Eoghan Rua O’Suilleabhain, and Aodhagan O’Rathaille.   Further, you will see the graves of many chieftains in the graveyard.  Killarney House and Gardens It is the main visitor center for the park.  Further, Formal Pleasure Gardens in the Killarney Gardens is the “longest Irish Herbaceous Border.”  Also, the 1870 red brick building was the main seat of the Kenmare estate. Ross Castle It is a tower house made in the 15th century with some myths attached to it.   O'Donoghues Mór built the castle, and people still believe that O'Donoghues Mór still sleeps under the lake water. It is said that here you can hear Banshee’s Wail. * Muckross House and Gardens  It is one of the most prominent stately homes in Ireland.  Moreover, the Tudor-style architecture of the mansion speaks of the affluent lifestyle of landowners in the 19th century.  Old Weir Bridge It is a stone-made twin-arch bridge.  Derrycunnihy Church This Roman Catholic church dates back to the late 19th century.  Further, you can see barn owls and Lesser Horseshoe Bats near this church.   Brickeen Bridge It has a pointed arch structure, and it’s an 18th-century bridge.  Innisfallen Island and Monastery The monastery here dates back to 640 AD when it was built by St.Finian the Leper.  Further, it was a place of immersive prayer and meditation for monks.  Moreover, “The Annals of Innisfallen,” written by monks here, are important accounts of Irish history.   Along with these sites, Killarney National Park has another historic area called the “Ladies View.” This was Queen Victoria's favorite place. Also, she was in love with the scenic beauty of the area.   *According to Irish folklore, Banshee is a spirit which appears as a woman and screams in a shrill voice. The appearance of Banshee is believed to bring the death summon for any of the family members.   Visiting The Habitats Of The Killarney National Park   As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this national park is full of waterbodies like ponds, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Further, there are heaths, bogs, rock formations, and grassland.   So, do you want a brief idea about the diverse habitats of the park? Then, check the table below.   Habitats Highlights Yew Woodland Muckross Peninsula Reenadinna Wood and the Carboniferous reef and pavement of limestone Thick bryophytes blanket the limestone structures and especially the presence of “southern Atlantic liverwort Marchesinia mackaii used in labs Yew, Oak, Hazel, Alder, and Ash Trees  Wet Broadleaved Woodland Carboniferous limestone structures near the lake Waterlogged landscape Blanket Bog Bog moss hummocks Crowberry, Heath Rush, and other species Dry Broadleaved Woodland Tomies Wood Glaisín na Marbh Woodland Tracks Upper Doogary Woodland Tracks Sessile Oak Trees Rowan Trees Birch Trees Heath Deer Grass Purple Moor Grass Tormentil Mixed Woodland Game Wood Rhododendron, Sycamore and Various Exclusive Species of Plants Portuguese Laurel Flowering Plants Grassland Rare Flora Species, such as Carnation Sedge, Creeping Bent, Marsh Violet, etc.   Waterfalls, Rivers and Streams Muckross Lake Upper Lake Unique Invertebrate Species Drowned Vegetation Wetlands, Ponds And Lakes Devil’s Punch Bowl  Along with these habitats, you will find commercially established conifer plantations in the national park. You will find them on the slopes of the Muckross or Torc Mountain. These plantations have Scot pines, European larches, Sitka spruce, and many other varieties.   Does Killarney National Park Have Restaurants And Cafes?   https://www.instagram.com/p/C7Q9NLpIr5w/ Yes, you can catch some quick bites and refreshments at Killarney National Park, which has quite a few restaurants and cafes. Further, each restaurant has a standout feature of its history or commitment to a special cause.   So, let’s know the names, their locations, and specialties.   Restaurant/Cafe  Location And Operating Hours  Specialties Muckross House Garden Restaurant Near Muckross House (“Adjacent to main car parks and entrance road”)  Baked salmon Cajon-style chicken breast Rainbow trout and sea-fresh cod duo  (Also, gluten-free options, including various salads, are available here.)  Deenagh Lodge It stands opposite St. Mary’s Cathedral on Port Road. Apple tart with custard Coffee Sandwiches   (It is operated by people with Down syndrome. Also, vegan and vegetarian options are available.) Dinis Cottage Dinis Island (Take the route via N71) Homemade scones Apple pie Fresh sandwiches (It is more than 200 years old. Moreover, it has a Victorian charm.) Ross Castle Garden Cafe Ross Castle Freshly ground barista coffee Cakes and pastries are also available.  Lord Brandon’s Cottage  Gap of Dunloe’s southern end Coffee and snacks (An open-air cafe)  Along with the restaurants and cafes, there are also Muckross Traditional Farms where you will find delicious, sweet meat on these farms.   Further, you can arrange picnics at this national park, provided you do not leave any trace behind. However, BBQing and lighting campfires are not allowed in Killarney National Park.   Final Words Before You Set In For The Killarney National Park  Exploring the natural bounty and history at Killarney National Park is easy and safe, thanks to the available family facilities and first aid and emergency services. Further, you can call 112 or 999 to avail yourself of emergency services. In addition, first-aid services are offered at Muckross House and Gardens and the Killarney National Park Visitor Centre.  Also, there are public toilets in the park. Moreover, for the children, there are changing facilities and playgrounds. So, it does not matter whether you are a solo traveler or you are traveling with your family and friends.   Moreover, Killarney National Park is the go-to destination for you to encounter one of the best bio reserves in the world, an account of human history, and the most fascinating landscapes.  So, if you are planning a trip to Ireland in late spring or early autumn, don’t forget to include Killarney National Park in your itinerary. Moreover, we would love to hear from you about the experience in the comment section below.   Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Where To Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park? – Explore The Best Options. 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BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 4, 2024

The rich history and culture of Toronto cannot be denied. The city is one of the most prominent in North America, known for its museums, culture, food, and more recently Art! It may be a surprise to some people, but Toronto Ontario has a plethora of options for art exhibitions, paintings, and more. The city is bustling with aspiring artists and art museums alike, it is no wonder that people are flocking to the city to learn more about this art and to visit and see for themselves the options and the beauty of all that it has to offer.  But what is the best way to visit the city, especially for large groups who may be traveling together, perhaps as part of an art tour or an art exhibition? One standout option is taking art and architecture tours by bus, these tours offer a way to discover the city’s treasures and impressive buildings while at the same time providing comfort and relaxation to the visitors. These tours give an overview of Toronto's public art, galleries, and innovative architectural designs making them a must-do activity, for those interested in the creative and structural sides of the city. Exploring Torontos Vibrant Art Scene The art scene in Toronto reflects the city’s population showcasing everything from installations to timeless masterpieces. Charter and coach bus tours make it convenient to visit art venues in one go allowing groups to delve into the spectrum of artistic offerings in the city. An exciting part of these tours is getting access to galleries like the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), which is a classic place to visit and is also home to over 90,000 artworks, while at the same time being recognized as one of North America's premier art museums. In addition to galleries, Toronto streets come alive with art that turns the urban landscape into an engaging open-air exhibition. These guided tours lead guests through neighborhoods decorated with murals, sculptures, and art installations that showcase Toronto's culture and vibrant art scene. From the sculptures, in the Distillery District to the thought-provoking installations along Queens Quay, each piece shares a narrative that enhances the viewer's appreciation of Toronto's character. Charter Bus Tours Toronto's landscape reflects the city’s growth, blending structures with contemporary skyscrapers. Guided bus tours via a charter bus company can provide a view of this evolution highlighting landmarks like the CN Tower that defines the city skyline and Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival mansion offering a glimpse into history. Some of the charter companies offer a variety of selections such as buses for up to 50 passengers and comfortable seating, we checked out charterbusrentaltoronto on our last trip to Toronto and were pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to visit the city from the comfort and beauty of your own rented coach bus. A highlight of one of our tours was visiting the St. Lawrence Market area, where some of Toronto's buildings have been carefully preserved. Here visitors can witness the coexistence of new architecture symbolizing the city’s reverence for its heritage alongside its vision for the future. It was a remarkable day that was truly enjoyed by all. Our driver even knew some hidden gems of restaurants that we were able to visit for dinner after our tour, which had some outstanding authentic food. This journey was more like an invitation to see the city through a new lens, to appreciate the interplay of light and space, color and form, history and innovation. We were able to participate with not just photographs and memories, but a renewed appreciation for the power of art and architecture to transform spaces and communities.  Other places that we visited on these tours include buildings such as the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), with its striking Michael Lee-Chin Crystal addition, and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) which underwent a redesign by renowned architect Frank Gehry. These structures act as places where culture is preserved in addition to being iconic buildings that challenge the norms of design and purpose. Related: How To Prepare An Enjoyable Bus Tour In Europe Tailored Experiences What makes these bus tours unique is the experience they provide. Led by guides these tours offer commentary on the art and architecture that define Toronto. Participants don't just passively observe; they engage in conversations that enhance their understanding of the city’s architectural accomplishments. Furthermore, some Toronto tours are crafted for convenience offering a stress-free way for groups to explore Toronto. Best of all, there are tours that can cater to all audiences, making art and architecture accessible to everyone. Exploring Toronto art and architecture through bus tours offers a journey through this unique city’s core and structural essence. They unveil the narratives behind Toronto’s public art installations and architectural wonders providing an insight into the city’s historical background. For those interested, in discovering Toronto's architectural marvels these tours offer an unforgettable experience that highlights the city’s finest offerings. Read Also: Warm Winter Wanders: January Destinations To Soak Up The Sun Experience Canada Like A Local: Insider Tips You Can't-Miss Best 9 Things To Do In El Paso!