Fun Things To Do In Washington DC: 6+ Things You Cannot Miss Here (Including Free Attractions)

Washington, DC, the capital of the USA, is experiencing a massive boost in tourism these days. 2023 has been a remarkable year, with the number of footfall reaching 25.95 million. The number is not just up from 2022 by 17%, rather, it is an improvement from the visitors in 2019. 

No wonder the things to do in washington DC have an important role to play in the increased tourism. 

The spike in tourism has further yielded a positive impact on the local economy. The number of 1.95 million international visitors in 2023 has been especially beneficial, considering they stay here longer and spend more than domestic visitors. 

This is a major milestone for Washington, DC. Put simply, we are seeing the results of our increased marketing and sales efforts thanks to the tourism recovery district legislation, and the city is benefitting from increased tourism. There is still work to do, however, since international travel hasn’t fully recovered. The additional funding allows us to continue to entice international visitors who stay longer and spend more.

Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO, DDC

So, do you also want to be a part of the bustling tourism scenario in the US capital? Let’s check out the things to do in Washington DC. I have also included some free activities to make your travel itinerary more pocket-friendly. 

Fun Things To Do In Washington DC | Including The Fun Things You Can Enjoy Here

The best time to visit Washington, DC, is during the spring season. This is the season when you will find cherry blossoms in full bloom. Further, the spring months record an average temperature of 5-24 degrees Celsius. 

You can even plan a visit and explore the best things to do in Washington DC during the fall season. The fall months of September to November also record moderate temperatures ranging between 5-30 degrees Celsius. 

Irrespective of the season, if you want to visit Washington, DC, you can try the following activities. 

1. Visiting The White House And The Washington Monument

White House And The Washington Monument are two most important landmarks of Washington DC and the entire USA.

You can take an elevator to the top of the Washington Tower and explore a 360-degree view of the surroundings.

On the other hand, the White House, the official residence of the US President, has been standing proud in Washington DC for two hundred years as the symbol of American life and people. 

2. Visiting The Lincoln Memorial

Address: 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington

Contact No: +1 202-426-6841

Are you traveling to Washington, DC, on a budget? You must visit the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. It is free and an ideal location for history buffs or people who want to know about Lincoln.

Read here the famous speeches of Lincoln, including the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address. Moreover,  the 38 Doric columns and other architectural features of the Memorial will grab your attention instantly.

When Lincoln Passed away, the 36 Doric columns of the Memorial used to stand for 36 states of the USA. 

3. Sightseeing At The National Mall 

Contact Number: +1 202-426-6841

A visit to the grassy expanse of The National Mall is one of the most exciting and fun things to do at The National Mall. If you want to take an end-to-end walk on this grassy expanse, you have to walk for 2.5 miles.

As you take a walk through the National Mall, you will find many important monuments of the USA. You must especially stop by the World War II Memorial and Washington Monument.

Moreover, the National Mall is one of the most popular places to visit in Washington, DC to visit with your family. 

4. Plan A Visit To Vietnam Veterans And Korean War Veterans Memorials

Address:  900 Ohio Dr. SW, Washington

Contact Number: +1 202-426-6841

Though not a fun visit, the Vietnam Veterans And Korean War Veterans Memorials are one of the best places to see in Washington, DC. “The Memorial” or “The Wall” is a popular place for dark tourism in the USA.

Today, when you visit the memorial, you will find the names of over 58000 Americans emblazoned on it. All of them lost their lives in the Vietnam War. You will also find metal sculptures of soldiers in action. 

Further, the Korean War Veterans Memorials pay tribute to 1.5 million Americans who were impacted by the “Forgotten War.” 

Tour And Travel Note:

The Korean War Memorial does not have adequate signage. So, if you already don’t know about the Korean War or for a young traveler, it may be difficult to grasp the significance fully.

Address: Sixth Street And Constitution Avenue Northwest 

If you are looking for free things to do in Washington DC, you must consider a visit to the National Gallery of Art. And all the Da Vinci Code fans, this is the museum where you will find the only oil painting of Leonardo Da Vinci on a permanent display in the USA.

Further, the West Building houses some of the older works of the museum. You will find here works of the likes of Claude Monet and Sandro Botticelli. So, the happening museum in the heart of America assembles the best of Europe art scenario. 

6. Catch A Performance At The John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts 

Address: 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC

Contact No: +1 800-444-1324

The John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts is home to the National Symphony Orchestra. Throughout the year, you will find many performances, musicals and other shows taking place at the John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts. 

Even if you don’t want to spend on the tickets (which usually come at a higher price), you can watch the free performances on the Millennium Stage. 

Furthermore, don’t forget to explore the “Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy” here. It has been there at the John Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts since 2022, and it ensures an immersive experience. 

7. Spend Some Moments Of Introspection At Washington National Cathedral

Address: 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington

Contact Number: +1 202-537-6200

The Washington National Cathedral is the sixth-largest cathedral in the world. The construction of this massive church started in 1907 and was completed in 1990. The cathedral is so huge that you will need at least 2 hours to explore it.

Furthermore, the gothic architecture will grab your attention instantly. Also, as you step inside the church, you will find intricate works of stained glass. 

Moreover, the surrounding garden is a nice place to take a stroll and spend your leisure. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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Best Group Friendly Restaurants In Las Vegas In 2022

BY  Barsha Nov 24, 2022

So you have arrived at our ultimate list of all the top group friendly restaurants in Las Vegas that you must check out before 2022 disappears from our lives forever! Of course, when you plan on visiting the dazzling Sin City, we know what’s on your mind - the casinos, right?  But what about checking out the lesser-known attractions or trying out new places for lunch, breakfast, or even dinner before you hit the clubs with your group? Don’t worry because we have got you completely sorted! So keep reading and definitely stick around for an inside scoop on all the best restaurants to visit with friends.  Best Group Friendly Restaurants In Las Vegas In 2022: You don’t have to type ‘restaurants for large groups near me’ on Google and waste time - instead, you can just scroll down and check out all the best group friendly restaurants in Las Vegas! We know that a hangover is difficult to deal with, so chill out with your friends and trust us to get all your meals sorted! You just have to stick around till the very end - that’s the deal we have for you! Juan's Flaming Fajitas & Cantina: Price Range₹891 - ₹3,240Address9640 W Tropicana Ave Ste 101, Las Vegas, NV 89147-2604Contact+1 702-823-1400WebsitejuansflamingfajitasCuisineMexican and Latin Juan’s Flaming Fajitas & Cantina is one of those ideal restaurants for groups - you get the best Mexican food here. And that’s not all. If you are vegetarian or vegan, even then, you won’t be disappointed. Plus, they serve gluten-free options as well!  Reviews: “The staff was amazing, and the drinks and food were some of the best we have had anywhere. We went here because we heard the queso was good, and it is, however, the fajitas and the fajita presentation are AMAZING!!” “This place has the most delicious pozole I ever had, great Mexican food. The service of my waiter Cristian was beyond good, always with a great attitude. I definitely highly recommend this restaurant.” “It's a must-go when we make our annual vegas trip. We discovered Juan's several years ago, and it hasn't changed. Excellent food and margaritas. Happy, friendly staff. Reasonable prices and lots of food for your money.” Texas de Brazil: Price Range₹2,511 - ₹4,050Address6533 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119-3214Contact+1 702-614-0080WebsitetexasdebrazilCuisineBrazilian If you are looking for a group friendly restaurant that also excels as a steakhouse then there’s no way you can miss out on Texas de Brazil. You just don’t find mouthwatering steaks made in the Brazilian style, you will also find gluten-free options - you never know which member in the group is only eating gluten-free food.  Reviews: “Once again, a wonderful meal at Texas de Brazil! The food is always fresh, prime, and cooked just perfectly when it comes off that sword! We are lucky to have two great Brazilian-style steak places in town!” “We just "happened" upon this place because everywhere else was packed for lunch. It was expensive but worth every penny. The food was great & the experience even better.” I was seated after a 10-minute wait. Our waitress (Tatum) was awesome. She kept the meats coming at a good rate. I love the Picanha, and beef ribs were the best for me. A little crowded but not noisy. Will be back” Weera Thai Restaurant: Price Range₹486 - ₹1,944Address3839 W Sahara Ave Suite 7-9, Las Vegas, NV 89102-0540Contact+1 702-873-8749WebsiteweerathaiCuisineAsian and Thai Hailing from Chiangmai, Thailand, the Weera Thai Restaurant is a famous name in their home for serving delicious and authentic Thai food for over three decades. Perfect for group friendly dining, you can visit Weera to explore the best of Thailand, and they also have plenty of vegans, vegetarian, and gluten-free options! Reviews: “Worth walking to from Palace Station casino, this restaurant appears to be a local favorite. The lunch specials included the soup, and it definitely stole the show, in my opinion. I wish I had some right now.” “Excellent authentic Thai food with a wide variety of options. Everything that we ordered was very tasty, we ordered from the lunch menu, and the sizes of the portions were perfect. The service was also very good, and the ambiance was quiet and unique.” “We went as guests of a friend who is a local and were really happy with the place, the food, and the service. Weera is a find, so wherever you are on the strip, get a taxi and go there. You will be happy!” McMullan's Irish Pub: Price Range₹324 - ₹1,458Address4650 W Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89103-5249Contact+1 702-247-7000WebsitemcmullansirishpubCuisineIrish A group friendly restaurant that stays open for 24 hours, McMullan's Irish Pub is a local pub, right out of a novel. And if you are a sucker for Irish food, then there’s no way you can miss out on this beautiful pub that gives out the right kind of feel.  Reviews: “Somewhere good to watch premiership football, we watched the Arsenal game, very friendly atmosphere. food good, Mary who looked after us, was excellent.” “We stopped here after looking at TA, and we loved it. The shepherd's pie was amazing, as was the chicken salad with potatoes. Also, there was an amazing selection of beers. Love this place!” “All the Irish food is great, especially the Irish Nachos. I love being able to have Cider with my meal, my companions like the various beers. suggest you make reservations for dinner.” Ferraro's Ristorante: Price Range₹3,240 - ₹4,860Address4480 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89169Contact+1 702-364-5300WebsiteferraroslasvegasCuisineTuscan, Cental Italian, and Italian If you are looking for restaurants for big groups then you can’t miss out on Ferraro's Ristorante! A little on the expensive side, this place serves delectable Tuscan, Central-Italian, and classic Italian dishes. And, of course, you will find vegetarian, vegan, as well as gluten-free options! Review: “From the tasty bread and oil, through magnificent carpaccio and mouth-watering vale. Wine and food were served by the service-minded waiters and sommeliers. Best dinner in Las Vegas!” “Delicious little gem. We had some Spaghetti Aglio, Olio, e Peperoncino “Ridiculously Good. Two plates of Gnocchi Al Pistachio Siciliano. A split plate of Rigatoni Alla Spilinga. Ended our six-course meal with Bucatini Amatriciana. Thank you to Oscar and the rest of the team” “Great atmosphere, Great people, Great manager, Attention to service. Do not miss the chance to visit if you are in Vegas” Casa Di Amore: Price Range₹1,620 - ₹2,592Address2850 E Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89121-7354Contact+1 702-433-4967WebsitecasadiamoreCuisineItalian, Southern Italian, and Sicilian Another Italian group friendly restaurant, Casa Di Amore also specializes in Southern Italian dishes, more importantly, Sicilian food. The food’s definitely the star of this Italian restaurant, but if you are looking for an X-factor, the place’s got more than one. Our favorite? The live Jazz music is accompanied by fantastic service!  Review: “Absolute gem! The food is the star of the show, but the live jazz music and fantastic service added to a wonderful experience. Highly recommended!” “Great time!! The food and service were exceptional. Oh, and the bread, wow!! Waiter Tony was the best!! Will definitely come back when we're in Vegas again, live music to end it all!” “Large group for dinner - got picked up and dropped off after with wonderful driver wild music down the strip. Had a great meal with cool blues music inn the background. Huge meals - wonderful service, and, being a Monday, the wine was half-price.” Omelet House: Price RangeNot SpecifiedAddress2160 W Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89102-2243Contact+1 702-384-6868WebsiteomelethouseCuisineBrunch, Lunch, Breakfast One of those restaurants for large groups where you can have breakfast or even a nice brunch, Omelet House is popular for their generous portions and delicious omelets! If you love a nice, heavy breakfast as much as we do, then don’t miss out on this local favorite! Review: “Just great food and service was outstanding. Highly recommend. A great variety of food and choices to fit anyone’s appetite.” “The food here is excellent with the emphasis on the old school flavors. Everything here is delicious, but I love their omelets the best.” “We stopped here on our way out of Vegas as part of our tour to the Grand Canyon. Orders were called in a few minutes before our arrival. Food was fast, hot, and good.” Mercato Della Pescheria: Price Range₹1,620 - ₹8,100Address3377 Las Vegas Blvd S Ste 2410 Suite 2410, Las Vegas, NV 89109Contact+1 702-837-0309WebsitemercatodellapescheriaCuisineItalian, Central Italian, and Tuscan Yet another Italian group friendly restaurant, Mercato Della Pescheria is well known among the local for serving authentic Italian dishes, and even varieties of seafood. And that’s not the best part! The best part is how the food is served fresh, market-style. Review: “The setting is very nice and romantic … if you like this kind of fake Italy. The service is very nice. The wine list was nice, although only the third attempt found a bottle available. The food was good but not outstanding.” “We love, love this restaurant! During this visit we celebrated a family birthday and had a great time. Everything from pizza to chicken parm was excellent! Our server was was Julia and she was excellent!! She made our celebration special!” “Great atmosphere. Delicious pastas. A special callout for our waitress Grace, who was personable and very knowledgeable even though she was new! Highly recommend!” Fresco Italiano: Price RangeNot SpecifiedAddress3000 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89109Contact+1 702-732-5276WebsiteNot SpecifiedCuisineItalian, Central Italian, and Tuscan One of the best restaurants for parties, albeit small ones, there’s no way you can miss out on Fresco Italiano while visiting Las Vegas. It might be a little small if you are seeking large party restaurants - but again, it depends on how many people are going to be there. Also, you can try to reserve the entire place.  Review: “Great food…worth the price tag. Excellent end to a fun weekend! Will definitely be back next time!!!” “Meal was fantastic and our server DANTE was the best, he even sang to us!!! I give him a15 on a scale of 1-10!!! Definitely would go back!!!” “What an incredible experience from start to finish. The food was delicious and Michael’s service (and singing) took it to the next level. If you visit Vegas or you love Italian food then a visit to Fresco and service by the wonderful Michael Blake is a must. Would definitely return.” Yard House: Price RangeNot SpecifiedAddress3545 Las Vegas Blvd S The Linq, Las Vegas, NV 89109-8978Contact+1 702-597-0434WebsiteyardhouseCuisineAmerican A top group friendly restaurant in Las Vegas, Yard House makes you always want to come back. The food was great, the beer kept flowing, and the service was excellent. We have absolutely no complaints. So there’s no way you can forget about this beauty on your trip to Sin City! Review: “The food was excellent menu price was good and the Korean garlic chicken wings are the best we had. Pretzel was huge. Good time. Great food.” “Perfect cooked steak with shrimp and tasty mashed potatoes with about a hundred different beers server was great.” “Absolutely fantastic. Reasonably priced beer (compared with the Strip) and their Ribeye steaks were to die for. So good we went back the next day, just before leaving Las Vegas for our return to the UK. Good atmosphere and great service.” And It’s A Wrap! So now you have a fair idea of all the crazy group friendly restaurants that you must check out on your visit to Las Vegas. There’s only a little time left this year - so check these out before we move on to the next batch of trending restaurants to visit in different luxury locations across the globe. Bon Appétit! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences on these places in the comments below!

READ MORE mountains of kenya

Explore The Beauty Of The Mountains Of Kenya!

BY  sagnika Aug 11, 2023

Want to learn more about the mountains of Kenya? A geographically and topographically diverse country, the Republic of Kenya has beautiful mountains that are more than just a geographical feature! Please read this article to learn about the features of the mountains, their cultural significance, as well as their beauty. There are almost 3888 mountains, out of which 3856 are named mountains. Mount Kenya is the highest peak of all these mountains, with an elevation of 5199 meters. It is one of the second-highest mountains in Africa and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kenya is located in the eastern part of Africa, more towards the southern horn of Africa, with diverse geographical features ranging from towering alpine peaks to mangrove swamps. The mountains' beauty adds to the country's natural features, making it a perfect place to visit! Explore The Beauty Of The Mountains Of Kenya! As a country with a topographical contrast, Kenya is located in the eastern section of Africa. The equator crosses the country across Nanyuki, Maseno, and Timboroa. These features highlight Kenya as a stunning destination that many wish to visit! Being a topographically diverse country where the forests offer diverse wildlife, it is perfect to visit if you love taking safaris. There are also coasts and grasslands, making the location more diverse. The nation is also highly agricultural, with diverse produce, including vegetables, fruits, and animals, even though the location is remote and can be difficult for regular travel. An African safari holiday is a dream for every hodophile, and Kenya offers the perfect backdrop. With spectacular wildlife, astounding landscapes, and a melting pot of culture, Kenya ranks at the top of the travel list of everyone! Moreover, the beautiful mountains play an important role in making Kenya a fascinating place! The country borders nations such as South Sudan, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia. So want to know more about the up-warped giants of the earth? Read along! Highest Mountains Of Kenya The total area of Kenya is 586,000 square kilometers, with high-rising regions such as high plateaus, mountains, arid deserts, and low-lying coastal areas, including islands and coral reefs. 7 freshwater and salt lakes are creating the Great Rift Valley cutting the country in half! Kenya has two of the tallest mountains on the continent. There are several other mountains, most inactive or extinct volcanoes. The landscape is diversified, yet the mountains are as beautiful as ever! Read more on some of the noteworthy mountains in Kenya. Mount Kenya The highest mountain in Kenya is Mount Kenya, located in the center of Kenya, approximately 100 miles northeast of the Capital, Nairobi. The mountain has several summits. Nelion, Lenana, and Batian are some. Bastian is the highest, with 17,058 feet, indicating the mountain's peak. The mountain formed about 3.5 million years ago. A well-known tourist destination, the Mount Kenya National Park surrounds Mount Kenya at the base. You can see elephants, buffalo, as well as colobus monkeys in the park. You can trek the mountain's peak of Lenana Summit as it is feasible without any mountaineering expertise. The rock kente is only available on Mount Kenya as well as the Antarctic, situated at the South Pole. The Spiritual Connection Of Mount Kenya Riuki is found on Mount Kenya, which in a spiritual context is considered the symbolization of the throne of God. Riuki is regarded as the pathfinder by the Gikuyu medicine men. They also believe it therapeutic as they put pebbles at risk as seers. The history of Mount Kenya is interconnected with the Egyptians, Jews, and Ethiopians. Mount Kenya is called Ta-Neteru by the Egyptians, which means the abode of the gods. The God Hapi or lotus, the gods of the Nile Floods, lived on the mountain. The farming communities that settled in Egypt in 7000 BC before the inundation of the Nile corresponded with "Isis," the heliacal rising of the star. It was after the water from the Nile flooding receded, leading to rich dark silt across the Central African countries and highlands. The land is called "Kemet," which is fertile land ready for planting. They consider the lands around Mount Kenya as one of the fertile lands. It also believed that the goddess Isis hid her son, her husband Horus, to raise him from the dead. They say the mountain has medical properties, and the locals consider it amazing. They pray to the mountains for protection and safety. Communities such as Maasai and Samburu are semi-nomadic people who use the northland of the mountain as a paying ground. Mount Elgon The second tallest peak in Kenya is Mount Elgon, located on the country's western side, closer to the Kenya-Uganda border. The mountain has distinguishing characteristics, such as having one of the largest volcanic craters. The top of the mountain is a flat-topped plateau made of basalt. The total height of the mountain is 13,852 feet, with lava tube tunnels across the mountain. Elephants and buffaloes often visit the lava tube tunnels. A national park surrounding Mount Elgon also has rhinos, eagles, leopards, and duikers. Mount Longonot Mount Longonot is an inactive volcano that last erupted in the 1860s but is not completely extinct. The height of the mountain is 9108 feet, and the mountain's slopes are filled with ridges. Mount Longonot is a mountain in Kenya. A park nearby has plenty of wildlife, such as zebras and giraffes. The mountain is situated approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. Travelers can visit the park by car, and the base of Mount Longonot has a lot of forest, even around the top crater. Compared to many stony mountains, this one is thickly wooded across the slopes and the summits. Satima Mount Satima is also "Ol Donyo Satima," which roughly translates to "Mountain of the bull calf." It is one of the Kenya mountains! It is the highest mountain across the Aberdare range, with a height of 13,127 feet, and is located on the northern side of the mountain range. The mountain has tussock grass and rocks in some areas and rainforests. There are bamboo forests and Moorland across a section of the mountain. The mountain has a collection of 150 species of plants, such as Podo and Cedar. The mountain is part of the water catchment area for both the Sasumua and Ndakaini dams. The two dams for Nairobi City are the primary source of water. Kinangop Kinangop is a dormant volcano in the Great Rift Valley and the west of the Kinangop Plateau. It is also situated in the Aberdares, with extensive bamboo forests across the mountain in the lower portion. The height of the mountain is 12815 feet. Moreover, the higher sections of the mountain are covered with tussock grass. The top of the mountain is rocky with open moorlands. The top of the mountain is quite chilly and turns freezing at night. Ngiro Mount Ngiro is located in the northern region of Kenya, with a height of 9344 feet. The mountain is part of the Great Rift Valley to the west overlooking the Suguta Valley. The upper slopes have forests, while the mountains is popular for cultivating bees. The mountain falls under the territory of the Samburu people, while the Lmasula phratry performs bee cultivation. The clan claims exclusive rights to the water and the land. Several other mountains and hills are situated in the nation, creating an exciting place for vacationing. If you are a hiking person, Kenya is the perfect place to visit as there are several advantages. There are enough mountains in Kenya for you to go hiking, as well as trails. It is a perfect spot to share holidays as well as weekends with your hiking partners. Some of the tallest mountains are situated in East Kenya. Kulal The mountain Kulal is identified as a biosphere reserve with lava fields, and the origin of the mountain is a volcano. The moisture in the biosphere leads to rain as well as mist, providing hydrological services to the people in northern Kenya. The mountain is located in the middle of East Africa, with steep slopes while deep canyons go across the mountain. It is also one of the driest places in Africa. There are forests across the mountain, a habitat for black rhinoceroses and elephants. Marsabit Mount Marsabit is surrounded by Mt. Marsabit National Park and Reserve, with a height of 1703 meters above sea level. The mountain has many craters, while the hills around it highlight the mountain. Across the mountain are many low-lying arid plains with elliptical shapes 70 km long on the northeast-southwest as well as 45 km wide on the northeast-southwest. The mountain comprises weathered lava flow. Mogila Mogila is one of the mountains of Kenya with a height of 1698 meters. A local relief of 300 meters, steep slopes, and a small summit area characterize the mountain. Moreover, it is located in the Turkana, creating the Great Dividing Range. Namanga Hills The mountain is in the southern part of Kenya. It is located on the borders of Tanzania, with the highest point being 2548 meters. The Great Rift Valley has four peaks: Suswa, Paka, Namarunu, and Menengai. The hills have a collection of hyenas, zebras, ostriches, as well as Antelopes. Cultural Relations Of The Mountains Of Kenya According to the Kikuyu tribe, they say the local Kikuyu god, N'gai resides at the summit of Mount Kenya. Mount Kenya is one such place that the local cultures worship. They consider these mountains the home of spirits as well as gods. Mount Kenya is a spiritual mountain, as the local communities think of it as the residence of God. Ethiopians also consider it the home of God and revered in its presence. The belief gains further confirmation because of the snow at the top of the mountain. The mountain is very close to the equator. Hence, it is quite surprising that there is snowfall at the top. There are thick forests around the mountain, and initially, the military dug the woods to flush the Maumau freedom fighters. According to the traditional version of Mount Kenya in Kikuyu, a star fell on the ground with a bang and formed the mountain. The mountain has volcanic ashes and oozing magma which forms the Kenyte. Mount Longonot has its Masai name, "Oloonong'ot," meaning "mountain with many spurs." The mountains are important as well as are traditional sites for worship by the local populations. Some vow in the mountain's name, while some send prayers based on cultural traditions. Both visitors and the natives join in collaborative activities such as mountain climbing and hiking. Are The Mountains Of Kenya A Cult? The high places in Kenya, especially mountains with snow caps, high mountain ranges, and island mountains, are cults. There are psychological roots of the communities who believe that mountains act as a heavenly ladder. Besides the spiritual connection for the community, mountains are also helpful natural elements for humans as they bring rain, while they also have volcanoes. Volcanoes have a fiery side to them, representing the element of earth. According to the myths based on the world's origin, mountains are the first natural element from ancient water. The indigenous people believe mountains are a great phenomenon of the earth, symbolizing cosmic connection. The local communities consider the mountains as shrines or altars for the Gods and worship them. For example, people in Africa often blame an earth deity when there is an earthquake. They also consider snakes to be culprits, a belief that their cult teaches in the cultural practices of Africa. Conclusion Did you notice something unique about the mountains of Kenya? Most of these mountains have physical features giving an Alpine appearance. There are many ridges across the mountains, giving it a ragged nature. So now you know about the beauty of the mountains, especially when it comes to the cultural aspect of it. People worshiping mountains is one tradition that integrates respect and protection of the natural elements. People from different cultures in Kenya believe in spirituality and offer prayers to the mountains. Let us know in the comments below if you see any culture where people worship mountains too! Read Also: Planning A Hunting Trip To Africa – Here’s What You Should Know The Blue Train: A Luxurious Expedition Across South Africa You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji!

READ MORE Banff National Park

Top 9+ Things To Do In Banff National Park In Winter: Adventure Tourism Guide

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

No park in the Rockies in Canada is as beautiful as the Banff National Park. This park has a year-round allure. So, no wonder the park had 4.288 million visitors in the 2023-24 fiscal year.  However, Banff National Park is breathtaking in the winter. With an average annual snowfall of 181 inches, the park also offers thrilling winter activities.  Banff National Park Visitor HighlightsBanff National Park had 4.13 million visitors in the 2022-23 fiscal year. So, 2023-24 has seen a massive increase (31%) in the footfall.The traffic congestion in the area has increased with the most traffic in the Lake Louise area. In 2023, there were 2,547 reports of human-wildlife encounters in this national park. So, you must be respectful to the wildlife in the park.  Further, Banff National Park and its surrounding areas expect 10-15 cm of snow in October 2024. The higher terrains can even receive a snowfall of up to 25 cm. So, Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and other ski resorts in the area have started preparing for the winter ski season.  These resorts consider this snowy condition ideal for better winter tourism and activities. So, let’s find out the outdoor pursuits you can participate in at Banff National Park this winter. You Surely Don’t Want To Miss These Winter Activities At Banff National Park  Winter calls for an immersive experience in the Canadian Rockies. Banff National Park is not an exception. You can enjoy a casual stroll along the snow-covered streets. Further, you can just cherish the snowy beauty while sipping on your favorite hot chocolate drink. Of course, there are delightful activities like ice skating in the frozen lake, skiing, and snowboarding. However, before putting on your skiing shoes and gear, you must check the snow conditions in the park and at a particular resort.  Nevertheless, let’s talk about the activities without further ado!  1. Skiing And Snowboarding Banff National Park offers some world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities. In fact, the skiing season here is one of the longest in North America. The skiing season starts here from the end of November until May. It is phenomenal, indeed! Further, it does not matter whether you have not done skiing and snowboarding before. You can give it a go, thanks to the guidance and rentals available here. However, if you are not confident enough, you can just get a sightseeing tour ticket and explore the park. The three skiing resorts in Banff National Park are: Mt Norquay (10 Minutes Away from Town) Banff Sunshine (20 Minutes Away from Town) The Lake Louise Ski Resort  (40 Minutes Away from Town) You can try skiing at all the resorts or at least visit one during the cold season. You have to pay a nominal fee to ski at these resorts. However, if you need guidance or rentals, you must pay extra charges. Nevertheless, here is a snapshot of the admission fee to the park for your reference. Moreover, if you want to visit a particular ski resort, you can buy lift tickets. However, if you have plans to visit all the resorts, go for the SkiBig3 tickets for a better deal.  2. Ice Skating Ice skating rinks in Banff National Park are free, and Lake Louise is the best spot in the park. It is a Canadian dream to ice skate on the frozen lake. Also, you can take part in Pond Hockey here.  Further, you can enjoy the snow-capped beauties while enjoying your time at the Lake Louise Ice Skating Rink. The mountains around this lake are: Mount Whyte Mount Niblock Hungabee Mountain Mount Godor Fairview Mountain Mount Goodsir Moreover, you will love the ice castle at the Lake Louise ice skating rink. Don’t forget to take lovely snaps against the backdrop of this ice castle.  3. Snowshoeing/Winter Hikes Snowshoeing and winter hikes are two different activities. However, both make winter in Banff National Park very special.  So, check out the following snowshoeing hotspots in the national park. Lake Louise Marble Canyon Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls Sunshine Meadows Sulphur Mountain Trail Bow Glacier Falls Sulphur Mountain Trail is also a popular hiking route in the park in winter. Here are some hiking trails in the park in winter. Tunnel Mountain Summit - Moderate, 2.4 Km one-way Stewart Canyon - Easy, 1.5 Km, one way Sundance Canyon - Moderate, 3,7 km one way plus 2.1 km loop Spray Connector - Easy, one way 2 Km Marsh Loop, Easy, 2.8 Km loop However, winter is within the avalanche season in the park. The Avalanche Season in the park continues from November to June.  You can even reach the Avalanche Terrain after a short walk. So, follow the Avalanche Danger Signs and Avalanche Symbol while trekking in the park in winter.  4. Dog Sledding Dog Sledding is a great way to explore the park in winter. The mighty and energetic huskies will make your day. While exploring the park, you will also learn about its history and why it is so crucial for the community and locality. In addition, your musher or guide will explain the dog sledding technique to you. Moreover, dog sledding is a popular activity in Banff National Park during the SnowDays  Event in January and February. It is a celebration of Everything Winter in Banff.  5. Relax In Upper Hot Springs Hours of Operation: 10 am to 10 pm (Last entry: 9:30 pm) It will be the most relaxing experience for you to soak in the warm water of the Upper Hot Springs on Sulphur Mountain in the chilling winter. You can kinda call it a Canadian tradition. So, no wonder that it has been one of the best things to do in Banff National Park in winter since 1886.  Banff Upper Hot Springs has 100% natural mineral water. Take a dip in the outdoor pool as you behold the Cascade and Rundle Mountain peaks.  Moreover, don’t forget to visit the Bath House, which is a federal heritage building that houses some interpretive exhibits. These exhibits tell you about the history and nature of the hot springs.  Did you know that Upper Hot Springs is the highest operational hot spring in Canada? 6. Ice Climbing Banff National Park is one of the most popular destinations for ice climbing in the Canadian Rockies, along with Jasper and Kootenay National Park. November to April is the best season for ice climbing in these parks.  Easy access and reliable conditions are two factors promoting ice climbing in these parks. In Banff, the canyons and waterfalls are especially brilliant spots for ice climbing. The most visited spots for ice climbing in this park are: Johnston Canyon Professor Falls Louise Falls Weeping Wall Polar Circus Cascade Falls However, ice climbing requires avalanche training, and you must abide by safety guidelines.  7. Wildlife Spotting In May 2024, the Rocky Mountain Outlook came with disturbing news of Wildlife Paparazzi putting pressure on the Grizzlies of Banff National Park to take snaps. This is a sheer disrespect of wildlife and a form of hunting trophies in the form of photos of those animals. “With cell phone cameras, the digital photos of wildlife have become the 21st Century equivalent of hunters going out and bagging an animal that they can hang on their wall.”Brian Spreadbury, Former Human-Wildlife Conflict Supervisor, Lake Louise Nevertheless, exploring the wildlife of Banff National Park in winter is a delightful experience. It is most famous for the black and grizzly bears. Further, you will find bighorn sheep, cougars, moose, elk, and wolves here.  However, you have to be at the following sports to explore wildlife here. Icefields Parkway Bow Valley Parkway Lake Louise Moraine Lake Vermilion Lakes You will also find many small mammals like chipmunks and squirrels in Banff National Park. Moreover, with bald eagles and hundreds of bird species, this park is a birder’s paradise.  8. Snow Tubing Snow tubing is an exciting winter activity that takes place at the Mt. Norquay Ski Resort. It is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Further snow tubing activities happen in two different time slots. The first slot is from 10 am to 12:30 pm, and the next slot is from 1:30 pm to 4 pm.  The snow tubing park in Mt. Norquay is the largest in Alberta. Moreover, the eight sliding lanes in the park let you enjoy the activity with your friends and family.  9. Northern Lights Viewing Late September to April is the best time for northern light viewing in Banff National Park. Longer nights and clear skies during these months are the best times for stargazing and northern light watching.  Vermillion Lakes in the national park is easily accessible by car and on foot. It is the best location for watching the Northern Lights.  10. Attending Festivals and Events Along with the SnowDays Festival, many events transform Banff National Park into a festive hub. You can attend the following upcoming events in the park. Event  Upcoming Date  Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival 26th October - 3rd November, 2024 Power of Presence - Wellness Retreat 1st-3rd November, 2024 Embrace Joy - Your New Freedom - Wellness Retreat 7th-10th November, 2024 Banff Wine & Yoga Festival  8th-11th November, 2024 Banff Sunshine Community Ski Day 6th December, 2024 Mt Norquay Community Ski Day 7th December, 2024 Lake Louise Community Ski Day 8th December, 2024 SnowDays Play Zone January 2025 Aerial Yoga Teacher Training 16th-19th January 2025 SnowDays Festival 17th January-2nd February So, get geared up for winter fun at Banff National Park. You can reach the park from Calgary through a shuttle service.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.