What Are The Things To Do In Nara? How To Plan A Two-Day Trip?

BY  Sibashree Mar 24, 2026

Galle has been my ideal dreamy, sepia-toned travel destination located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka.  Moreover, the city’s stunningly beautiful old fortified peninsula reaches defiantly out into the Indian Ocean and boasts many crumbling colonial-style buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and swaying palm trees.  However, the true magic of Galle comes from taking it slowly.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the things to do in Galle Fort. However, I will begin with why a visit to the Galle Fort is worth it and how to get there.  Why Visit Galle Fort? A UNESCO World Heritage Site And The Fortress That Defied Time “Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century, before the arrival of the British.  It is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and South-East Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and South Asian traditions.” • UNESCO World Heritage Convention.  The trading post was once impenetrable, and the rampart walls kept the invaders at bay.  However, centuries later, during the 2004 Tsunami, the same stone walls that stood against cannons also protected the people from the ocean.  Thus, the Galle Fort remained intact even though the surrounding coastline was devastated. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being a unique example of a fortified city.  How To Reach The Galle Fort? You can easily reach the Galle Fort from Colombo or down the coast.  From Colombo  You can take a train from Colombo Fort, and after a three-hour journey and amazing ocean views, you will reach Galle.  However, currently, this route is being reconstructed. So, you can take a Highway AC bus from the Makumbura Station.  Furthermore, it is a 2-hour journey through the Expressway.  From Mirissa Or Weligama If you’re already beach-hopping the south coast, you can just hop on any local bus headed toward Matara or Galle.  It’s cheap, frequent, and gives you a real taste of local life, and that’s amazing as a follower of TheLowDownUnder Travel philosophy.  Also, from my days in Jaffna to the things to do in Kandy, I have always ditched comfort and the obvious for a more authentic experience.  What Are The Things To Do In Galle Fort, Sri Lanka?  When talking about the things to do in Galle Fort, you have to think beyond the tourist checklist.  Furthermore, Galle is a place of contrasts! You have the rugged, salt-sprayed stone of the ramparts on one hand, and on the other hand, you have the most polished boutique shops.  So, Galle is beyond your usual Instagram photo op.  And one of the best things to do in Galle is to understand how the fortress and the neighborhood have survived empires and natural disasters.  Moreover, in Galle, you become a part of the history as you watch the sunset from an ancient bastion or sip cold beer at a wine bar on a cobblestone street.  Also, you will see an extension of all these in my detailed account of two days in Galle Fort.  Day 1: Getting Lost In The Living Museum Walks, exploring the architecture, culture, and the much hyped sunset experience! These were the things to do in Galle Fort on day one.  Morning: The Rampart Walk Walking is the best way to begin your exploration of Galle Fort. It is small and, therefore, a great destination for pedestrians.  In the morning, I climbed to the top of the stone ramparts and walked the entire way around the edge of the Fort, obtaining a 360-degree view of Galle. I saw the sparkling, turquoise ocean to one side and the red tiled roofs of the original buildings of the town on the other. On your walking tour, look for the famous Galle Clock Tower and the historic Galle Lighthouse, which is probably the most photographed place in all of Sri Lanka.  The whitewashed lighthouse is stunning against the clear blue sky, but I found that the late afternoon light gives it that soft, golden color that makes the palm tree shadows cast perfectly across the grass. Afternoon: Culture And Architecture After you’ve finished exploring the upper level of the walls, it’s time to explore the narrow alleyways of the city.  Throughout the streets, you are going to notice something extremely wonderful. You will see the cultural and ethnic diversity and the same inclusive culture of Sri Lanka, prominent through the iconic Ambuluwawa Tower in Colombo.   In just a matter of blocks, I was able to visit the Dutch Reform Church, All Saints Anglican Church, Meeran Mosque, and Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple.  All these places serve as a testament to the many different people who have influenced the development of Sri Lanka over many hundreds of years. If the heat of the sun becomes unbearable, I recommend that you check out either the Historical Mansion Museum or the Maritime Museum.  Both of these museums are in beautifully restored colonial structures and provide visitors with great artifacts dating back to Sri Lanka’s colonial period. Evening: The Sunset Ritual When the sun is going down, I suggest that you make your way to the western walls of the fort.  At Flag Rock Bastion, you will find the locals performing their “cliff jumping” tourism attraction.  You will have the opportunity to see how far they will go into the crashing waves.  If you would rather have a quieter spot to watch the sunset, I would recommend that you go to Triton Bastion.  I spent an hour there on the grassy ramparts watching as the sky slowly burned with bright oranges. What a way to see Mother Nature's fireworks show. Day 2: Boutiques, Buffets, And Beaches Day 2 was more relaxed as I shopped, gorged on grand feasts, and explored the beaches.  Morning: The Shopping Mecca Galle is now Sri Lanka's shopping capital. Pedlar Street is the epicenter of the boutique shops, from where you can collect elegant souvenirs.  A few of my personal favorites are in the table below.  Places to Visit for ShoppingThings to BuyStick No BillsVintage-Style PostersThe Tea Room by Evergreen GroupBuy Tea in BulkOld Dutch HospitalThis former colonial hospital is now a chic shopping and dining precinct. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and browse. Lunch: A Local Feast After the spicy food in Jaffna, the food in Gelle was comforting. So, trying the Coconut Sambal is one of the best things to do in Galle.  You will get the curries with chicken and vegan-friendly options here. Also, to beat the midday Sun, have some homemade ginger beer or treat yourself to a scoop at Isle of Gelato.  Moreover, don’t forget to try the cashew caramel at Isle of Gelato.  Afternoon: Beyond The Walls As the Sun starts getting softer, you can explore the surrounding coast. Also, if you want to extend your coastal hunt, head to Dewata Beach.  Here, you will find many beginners and professionals surfing the waves.  Furthermore, if you want to just relax, take a tuk-tuk ride to the Jungle Beach in Unawatuna. It is a small sandy cove with lush greenery. 

BY  Sibashree Mar 24, 2026

Ella is one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful towns.  Also, Ella is a place where many of my favorite Sri Lankan adventures are.  My first sighting of the famous Nine Arch Bridge, one of my first hikes at Ella Rock, standing at the edge of the roaring Diyaluma Falls, and many more.  Perhaps the most famous train ride in the world, from Kandy, passes through Ella as well. Ella is a quaint and beautiful town and is a great place to escape the heat of the southern coasts. However, over the last decade, this quaint little hamlet has become a large tourist destination.  Unfortunately, the growth has also brought some concrete eyesores to the village.  There is still plenty of magic to be discovered here, if you are willing to move beyond the Instagram hotspots. Having undertaken two comprehensive visits to this beautiful hill-country retreat, I have compiled the ultimate portfolio of things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka. What Are The Things To Do In Ella, Sri Lanka?  Despite the changes in Ella, Sri Lanka, the mountain ranges are just as majestic as they were years ago. Furthermore, the tea served is still some of the finest in the world. Moreover, people here are still warm.  And the most fascinating part?  Ella always brings out the explorer in you. How can you avoid the lure of riding in an open-air train or leaning over the edge of a waterfall?  Here is more about the exciting things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka.  1. Riding The Iconic Kandy To Ella Train The Kandy to Ella train ride is the best thing you will do in Sri Lanka.  The train passes through tea plantations and crosses gushing streams.  And you cannot expect less from a route that has been labelled by many as the most picturesque train ride in the world.  However, the train ride also allows you to indulge in the local vibe with local vendors hawking through the rush and the local boys singing and playing drums during the journey.  Also, the Nanu Oya to Ella scratch is the most beautiful in the entire route. Also, don’t go for a 1st class ticket and reserve a 3rd class class to enjoy the views through open windows.  2. Admiring  The Famous Nine Arch Bridge It’s astonishing to think that a single bridge could drive tourists in droves to a small town, but the Nine Arch Bridge is an engineering marvel that demands to be seen.  Standing 24 meters high and spanning 91 meters, it was completed in 1921 using only brick, rock, and cement, and there is no metal at all. When the mist hangs low in the valley, the bridge takes on a moody, mystical feel.  You can walk along the tracks or look down from the tea plantations below, but my favorite view is from the cafe platforms in the surrounding hills.  Watching the blue train slowly crawl across the arches is a sight I’ll never forget. 3. Hiking The Mighty Ella Rock  The hike to the mighty Ella Rock starts from the Ella railway station. It was a walk with waterfalls and small homes on the way.  Then, the steep ascent began.  After reaching the top, you will get a beautiful view of Adam’s Peak and Ella Gap. 4. Watching Sunset At Little Adam’s Peak The hike to Little Adam’s Peak is a gentler alternative to the hike to Ella Rock.  I walked through the lush tree plantations, and once I reached the top, the panoramic view before my eyes was nothing short of a movie frame.  Plan your hike in the late afternoon to enjoy the most amazing sunset views from Little Adam’s Peak. 5. Chasing The Diyaluma Falls I started from Ella to Poonagala, the starting point for the Diyaluma Falls hike, by taking a tuk-tuk.  The tuk-tuk took 1.5 hours.  Furthermore, from Poonagala, it was a downhill hike to the Upper Diyaluma Falls, which had a 220-meter drop.  There are natural infinity pools right at the edge where you can swim during the dry season.  From the upper Diyaluma Falls, it is another 30-minute hike to the Lower Diyaluma Falls.  6. Feeling The Mythological Connection At Ravana Falls  Ravana Falls is right by the road south of Ella.  Locals say that King Ravana took Princess Sita and hid her in the caves behind Ravana Falls.  Furthermore, you can see the Ravana Falls from the road. However, it is best if you hike to the second and third tiers.  7. Taking A Seat With Sir Thomas Lipton Tea is the lifeblood of this region, and a visit to Lipton’s Seat is a journey to the source.  This is the exact spot where tea mogul Sir Thomas Lipton used to sit and survey his empire.  On a clear day, you can see all the way to the south coast. Even on the foggy day I visited, sipping a fresh cup of Ceylon tea (the best I’ve ever had) while the clouds swirled around the summit was incredibly atmospheric. 8. Taking A Tour Of The Dambethenne Tea Factory When you go to the high country, you must learn the actual science of the making of your brew. I visited the tea company founded by Lipton himself in 1890 and saw how it was picked, wilted, fermented, and graded. All of these were new to me as an individual who drinks a lot of tea.  About 80% of this tea is sold in Colombo and then exported around the world. I especially found the fermenting room to be extremely interesting. 9. Feel The Adrenaline Rush At Flying Ravana If you need a break from the hiking, Ella recently opened Sri Lanka’s first-ever zip-line.  It stretches half a kilometer across the hills and hits speeds of 80kmph.  For around $20 USD, it’s one of the best value adrenaline fixes I’ve ever found. It’s located near the 98 Acres resort, making it a perfect way to end a trip to Little Adam’s Peak. 10. Mastering The Art Of The Curry At Ella, Sri Lanka  In my opinion, Sri Lanka has the best food (after my country, of course)! If you want to bring back a little bit of Sri Lanka to your home country, then you should try taking a cooking class.  Also, if you don’t have enough time, just try the food streets.  For me, it was a brilliant consolidation of my food tour in Jaffna. Though the food in Ella is creamier and less spicy than in Jaffna.  11. Witnessing The Grandeur Of Bambarakanda Falls The Bambarakanda Falls is the tallest waterfall in the country, and it falls from a height of 241 meters.  You can take a short hike or a tuk-tuk to reach the Bambarakanda Falls from Ella.  Then, stand at the base and feel the sheer power of that vertical drop.  Moreover, to enjoy the best flow of this waterfall, plan a visit between April and September.  12. Spotting The Elephants At Udawalawe Like the Kaudulla National Park, the Udawalawe National Park is also a great place for spotting elephants in the wild.  Ella is the base for a safari in the Udawalawe National Park.  I opted for an early morning safari, and I spotted adorable baby elephants with their mothers.  Don’t Forget To Party And Chill In Ella, Sri Lanka  Like Jaffna, a backpacker’s dream, Ella has also emerged as a hub for backpackers and budget travelers.  Ella Town is still a great place to unwind, and places such as Cafe Chill are at the epicenter of these scenes.  You can have some really good burgers and Lion Beer at some of these recognized cafes.  Moreover, when you spend time at these cafes, you don’t rush from one place to another, but study the local culture and understand how a country, ridden by cyclones, endless civil wars, and financial crisis, can still be the land of sunshine. 

BY  Sibashree Jun 22, 2026

Macau is a small East Asian City. It is on the west of Hong Kong and on the south coast of China.  Macau is 64 kms away from Hong Kong, and it has the City of Zhuhai in Mainland China to the north. Then, the Pearl River Delta is to the south and east.  It was a Portuguese colony once, but now it is an autonomous territory. Also, even today, Macau shows an influence of ancient Chinese culture.  However, this ancient Chinese culture has created a fusion with new-age European influence. The cuisine of Macau explains it the best, and that’s why you need to visit the best restaurants in Macau.  You will especially experience a blend of Cantonese and Portuguese flavors.  What Are The Top 10 Restaurants In Macau?  Macau has many top restaurants to eat at. Along with the starred restaurants, there are also bakeries, taverns, street food corners, and age-old tea houses.  Furthermore, freshly baked almond cookies, egg tarts, and slices of beef and pork jerky are some of the best delicacies to try in these restaurants.  Also, thanks to the culinary legacy of over 400 years, there is a global interest in the Macanese cuisine.  Moreover, Irina Bokova, the Director-General of UNESCO, has designated Macau as the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.  Nevertheless, visiting all the restaurants in the city is not possible logistically. So, I have 25 places and picked 10 among them.  I have further divided the top 10 Macau restaurants into two categories: luxury restaurants and budget-friendly restaurants.   It’s time to celebrate Macanese history and the eclectic culture of the city.  Top Luxury Restaurants In Macau  As I have mentioned, Macau is a global gastronomic destination, and it is home to names such as The Ritz–Carlton Cafe, which is a Michelin Guide restaurant.  So, let’s find out the top names on our list of the luxury restaurants in Macau, along with The Ritz–Carlton Cafe.  However, before I give brief details about the restaurants with you, I want to share a table or a quick summary comparing the names I have chosen.  A Quick Summary  Best Luxury Restaurants in MacauCuisine Type and SpecialtyAverage Price Range Per Person (₹)Ideal Dining OccasionLocationThe Ritz-Carlton CaféFrench Brasserie and Classic Desserts2,500 – 15,000- Romantic Dates- Group Dinners- Family DiningGround Floor, The Ritz-Carlton Macau, Estrada da Baía de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, CotaiThe Manor (St. Regis)Seafood, Oysters, and Robata Grilled Meats2,500 – 15,000- Romantic Dinner - Dates- Trying Local Cuisine - Family Dinners1st Floor, The St. Regis Macao, The Londoner Macao, Estrada do Istmo, CotaiLai HeenMichelin-Starred Haute Cantonese and Vegan Options2,500 – 13,000- Private Dining- Intimate Family Gatherings51st Floor, The Ritz-Carlton Macau, Estrada da Baía de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, CotaiVida Rica (Mandarin Oriental)Classic Cuisine with Modern Twist and Cheese Wheel Risotto2000+- Panoramic Waterfront Views- Bar Scene- Romantic DiningMandarin Oriental Macau, 945 Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, NAPE, Macau PeninsulaBelon Restaurant (Banyan Tree)Marine-Themed International Seafood and Dry-Aged Ribeye6000+- Sunday Champagne Brunches- Kids Lunch- Romantic Events31st Floor, Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Macau Resort, Estrada da Baía de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Cotai 1. The Ritz-Carlton Café One of the best restaurants in Macau, China, the Ritz Carlton Cafe is the ultimate spot if you are looking for a French brasserie.  It exudes the charm of a quintessential French Cafe. Also, it is a fusion of sophisticated decor and flavorful food that stands out because of its simplicity.  Furthermore, based on the group size, you can choose between its two and four-seater intimate seating arrangements.  Also, it offers a wonderful view of the shopping area.  2. The St. Regis Macao I had the finest oysters in Macau at The Manor. This signature grill restaurant and oyster bar of St. Regis Macao also serves prime cut meats.  Furthermore, its wine list is exquisite, and it is one of the topmost restaurants in Macau to follow the unique Robata technique for grilling.  In the Robata technique, Northern Japan’s “white oak Bincho-tan” is used for the perfect grilling of the meat.  As a result, the meat gets a charred texture on the outside, and it remains moist in the center. The subtle smoky aroma makes it all the more appetizing.  You can also try Portuguese chouriço and squid ink here, and Instagram celebrates its cross-cultural plates, such as the Glacier 51 Toothfish.  3. Lai Heen Lai Heen is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Macau and one of the best in the city for vegetarian food.  The atmosphere of the restaurant is sophisticated, and a lot of experimentation with haute Chinese cooking happens here.  Furthermore, the Chef's Creations served here are innovative, and they celebrate the modern spirit of the city.  Along with vegetarian cuisines, it also has custom-made vegan options such as “Asparagus Barley Risotto with Morel Mushrooms.” So, if you are a vegetarian and looking for an Indian restaurant in Macau, you can choose Lai Heen.  However, please mention your vegan preferences to them well in advance before visiting the restaurant.  4. Vida Rica, Mandarin Oriental I visited Vida Rica to try delicious cakes and an assortment of cocktails. However, as soon as I stepped inside, I was bowled over by the amazing glass wall.  It offered a brilliant view of the Nam Van Lake and the South China Sea.  Furthermore, the seating arrangement of the restaurant was unique. Every guest could see how the executive chefs interpret the classic cuisine.  I loved the red curry prawn bisque there, and they make brilliant risotto.  5. Belon Restaurant: Banyan Tree Belon Restaurant has a marine theme, and it felt like dining under the ocean. You will notice the inspiration of the marine life even in the dishes such as smoked scallop.  Along with being one of the top dining restaurants in Macau, it is also a popular spot for a Sunday Brunch.  It got its name from the famous flat oysters from France, Belon. Furthermore, Hong Kong Tatler designated it as one of the best restaurants in Macau in 2017.  What Are The Most Affordable Restaurants In Macau?  Budget-friendly dining in Macau is not limited to the local eateries or Cha Chaan Tengs. You will also find many affordable restaurants here.  A Quick Summary Of Budget-Friendly Restaurants In Macau  Affordable Restaurants in MacauAddressAverage Price Per Person (₹)Must-Try DishesIdeal ForTerrazza In Galaxy MacauShop 2001, 2nd Floor, Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort, Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Cotai, Macau4300- Country Style Suckling Pig- Tuscan delight with the Paccheri Pasta and Carabinero Prawns- Eggplant Parmigiana- Classy Wine and Portuguese Dining- Dining with Kids- Romantic Dining- Group DiningDragon Portuguese Cuisine In BroadwayBroadway Food Street, Shop A-G005–G009, Broadway Macau, Avenida Marginal Flor de Lotus, Cotai, Macau1500- Baked Duck Rice- Baked Suckling Pig, - Homemade Curry Crab- Family Dinners- Casual DiningCafe Deco Restaurant – The VenetianShop 1036, Level 1, The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel, Estrada de Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Taipa, Cotai, Macau1277- Crab Legs- Wood-Fired Pizza- Pastries- Family Gathering- Dining with KidsMIAN In Studio CityShop 1181, 1st Floor, Studio City Macau, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau1550- Barbecued Iberico Pork and Ramen- Prawn and Seafood Hokkaido Miso Soup Ramen- Grilled Eel Kamameshi- Date Nights- Family DinnerLe BuffetShop 3100, Level 1 (Ground Floor Lobby Area), The Parisian Macao, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai Strip, Macau1700- Fresh Seafood from the Buffet's Seafood Table- Ham- Cured Meats (like Prosciutto)- Romantic Dinner- Family Dining 6. Terrazza In Galaxy Macau Terrazza in Galaxy Macau celebrates the love for Italian cuisine in Macau. It has prestigious listings in Ospitalita Italiana and the Michelin Guide.  Furthermore, beyond the food, it is the wine cellar of the restaurant that stands out.  Also, from the restaurant, you can enjoy amazing views of Cotai.  7. Dragon Portuguese Cuisine In Broadway One of the top Portuguese restaurants in Macau, Broadway's Dragon Portuguese Cuisine has dishes that present the perfect fusion of Macanese and Portuguese dishes.  Despite the sophisticated setting and the excellent quality and innovation in the dishes served here, the prices are moderate.  Moreover, the food served here has the comfort of a home-cooked meal. Also, it has a “Galatian-inspired” setting that makes the ambiance vibrant and cozy.  8. Cafe Deco Restaurant: The Venetian Cafe Deco Restaurant is one of the most affordable Chinese restaurants in Macau.  However, along with traditional Chinese food, it also serves local Macanese cuisine and International delicacies made with fresh seafood.  Also, boasting a soothing and classy setting, the restaurant serves a full-course buffet including soups, appetizers, fresh seafood, salads, and desserts.  9. MIAN In Studio City MIAN in Studio City serves the best Japanese cuisine in Macau. In the classic Japanese dishes it serves, the restaurant uses homemade soup bases and noodles.  Furthermore, it has an open kitchen. So, watching the delicacies being made is quite an experience.  Also, it has a dim lighting setup. So, you can enjoy a romantic ambiance.  10. Le Buffet At Le Buffet, I saw the chefs making the European delicacies at live counters.  While it is very European in the cuisine served, the decor is Persian with muted colors and grilled walls.  Furthermore, the desserts at Le Buffet deserve special mention, and the mini Eiffel Tower dessert tower is the most creative among them.  Some More Information You Need To Know About The Top Restaurants In Macau  If you are looking for Indian restaurants in Macau, you can explore options such as Macau City, Indian Spice, and The Golden Peacock.  Furthermore, if you are searching for authentic Italian restaurants, you must try options such as La Cucina Italiana, Portofino, Bene, and Don Alfonso 1890.  Also, if you want to have vegetarian food, consider places such as Vida Rica Restaurant, Blissful Carrot, and Lai Heen.  Celebrating The Fusion Of Local And Global Cuisines  The top restaurants in Macau celebrate the words of George Bernard Shaw, “There is no love sincerer than the love for food.” Also, what makes the gastronomic experience in Macau special is the eclectic influence and the rich history of over 400 years.  So, let’s indulge in great food in Macau. Bon Appétit! Read Also: What Are The Best Restaurants In Cape Town? Eat Like A Local In South Africa What Are The Restaurants In Australia Worthy To Have An Experience? Top 10 Most Romantic Restaurants in Rome for the Perfect Date Ever!