Top Places to Visit in Italy on Your Next Travel Escapade 

BY  Sibashree Mar 11, 2026

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

BY  Arnab Jun 8, 2023

Dubai's desert safari trips offer a thrilling and captivating journey into the heart of Arabia. Picture yourself surrounded by golden sand dunes as far as the eye can see, with the sun setting in the distance, casting a mesmerizing glow over the landscape. As you gear up for an exciting experience called dune bashing, your excitement builds up. Dune bashing is a thrilling off-road activity where skilled drivers take you on an exhilarating journey over the wavy sand dunes in a powerful 4x4 vehicle. Hold on tight as you experience the exhilarating ups and downs, twists and turns, and the sheer excitement of conquering the challenging terrain. But the adventure doesn't stop there. Desert safaris in Dubai offer a myriad of activities to keep your adrenaline pumping. Safety Tips to Keep in Mind for an Exciting Dune Bashing Adventure While dune bashing is a thrilling adventure, it's important to prioritize safety during the experience. Given below are a few essential safety tips you might consider: Choose a reputable tour operator: Opt for a licensed and experienced tour operator that adheres to safety guidelines. Follow the instructions: Listen attentively to the instructions provided by your driver and follow their guidance throughout the ride. Wear seat belts: Always fasten your seat belt to ensure your safety in case of any sudden movements or bumps. Don't eat heavily before the ride: Avoid consuming a heavy meal before dune bashing to prevent discomfort or nausea. Stay refreshed: Bring ample water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the thrilling experience. Secure loose items: Keep your personal belongings securely stored to prevent them from flying around during the bumpy ride. Other Thrilling Activities in the Desert Safari Dubai Trip The desert safari Dubai trip offers a plethora of thrilling activities beyond dune bashing. Here are certain additional adventures to explore: Sandboarding: Strap on a sandboard and slide down the sandy slopes, similar to snowboarding but on the sand. Experience Camel Riding: Climb aboard a camel, the traditional way to travel in the desert. Enjoy a leisurely ride across the sandy landscape, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Enjoy Quad Biking: Seize the reins of a strong quad bike and set off on a thrilling off-road journey. Explore the desert at your own pace, navigating through the dunes and feeling the rush of adrenaline. Experience Falconry: Observe the ancient practice of falconry as skilled falcons demonstrate their agility and hunting abilities. Discover the importance of falconry in Emirati traditions and have the opportunity to handle these magnificent birds. Immerse in Bedouin Culture: Explore an authentic camp to discover vibrant traditions. Engage in fun activities such as henna art, traditional music, mesmerizing dance, and dressing in cultural garments. Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a breathtaking and unique perspective of the desert landscape, consider a hot air balloon ride. Fly high over the sand dunes and behold the desert's magnificence during sunrise or sunset. This serene and awe-inspiring experience offers a sense of tranquility and allows you to capture stunning photographs from the sky. Night Sky Observation: When darkness falls, the desert sky illuminates countless twinkling stars. Take a moment to appreciate the celestial wonders above as you lay back on the soft sand. Away from the city lights, the desert provides an ideal setting for stargazing and immersing yourself in the beauty of the night sky. Bedouin Cuisine: Indulge in the flavors of Arabian cuisine at a traditional Bedouin-style camp. Delight your taste buds with dishes like grilled meats, aromatic rice, and delectable desserts. Savor the authentic flavors while surrounded by the warm ambiance of the desert. Traditional Crafts: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the Bedouin people by participating in traditional crafts. Learn the art of weaving or pottery-making, and create your own unique souvenir to take home as a reminder of your desert safari experience. Desert Exploration: Despite its seemingly empty appearance, the desert is teeming with unexpected plant and animal life. Embark on a guided nature walk to discover the hidden wonders of the desert ecosystem. Learn about the plants and animals that have adapted to thrive in this harsh environment and gain a deeper appreciation for the desert's beauty and resilience. These additional activities enhance your desert safari Dubai trip, offering a diverse range of experiences to cater to every adventure lover's interests. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping thrills or a serene connection with nature, the desert safari has something for everyone to enjoy. The Ideal Moment for Enjoying Dune Bashing in Dubai To make the most of your dune-bashing adventure in Dubai, it's essential to choose the right time to visit. The best time for dune bashing is during the cooler months, which typically fall between November and April. During this time, the temperatures are more pleasant, allowing you to enjoy the experience comfortably. Book Desert Safari: dubaidesertsafaris The winter months, especially December and January, offer cooler temperatures and clear skies, creating the perfect conditions for dune bashing. It's important to avoid the scorching summer months when temperatures can soar to extreme levels, making the experience uncomfortable and potentially unsafe. Read Also: Where Is The Most Popular Spot In The World To Take A Selfie? “Sands Of Splendor: Luxurious Desert Safari Experiences In Dubai” 5 Reasons Why People Love Morning Desert Safari In Dubai?

BY  Abdul Aziz May 6, 2022

Downtown Cleveland is a bustling city that offers plenty of things to do for visitors. Whether you're looking for a place to eat, a place to shop, or a place to explore, Downtown Cleveland has something for everyone. And with the Downtown Cleveland Hotel, it's easy to stay downtown for longer to take advantage of everything the city has to offer. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, Downtown Cleveland has a wide variety of hotels to suit your needs. There are budget-friendly options as well as the more upscale establishments. The one you ultimately decide to stay in will depend on what you want out of a vacation or business trip. Let us now check out some of these Downtown Cleveland attractions that might encourage us to stay longer. Catch a game at Progressive Field or Quicken Loans Arena Progressive Field is one of Downtown Cleveland's crown jewels. The home of the Cleveland Indians, Progressive Field is a premier destination for baseball fans. From the beautifully designed concourses to the amazing sightlines, Progressive Field is one of the best ballparks in the country. Don't miss out on a chance to see a game at this iconic venue during your extended stay downtown. Home to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Monsters hockey teams, Quicken Loans Arena is Downtown Cleveland's most popular attraction. The arena hosts more than 200 events per year and welcomes more than 2 million visitors annually. Whether you're a sports fan or not, there's something for everyone at Quicken Loans Arena. From concerts to family shows, there's always something going on. Stroll through the Cleveland Museum of Art When looking for things to do, the Cleveland Museum of Art is always a top option. With an impressive collection of both modern and classical art, there is something for all to enjoy. Some of the most popular exhibits include Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night" and Michelangelo's "David." If you enjoy art, and have a go at it yourself from time to time, then you will appreciate what is on offer at the Cleveland Museum of Art. You can get to see exhibits that are only available to view here in person. Seeing art on a computer screen or inside a book is just not the same because you cannot grasp the textures that make up a composition and how these work to produce such beauty. Note: Consider going through our exclusive guide on Ohio Attractions Explore the Warehouse District The Warehouse District is a popular spot for nightlife in Downtown Cleveland. It's home to plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as art galleries and other attractions. If you're looking for a place to go out and have some fun, the Warehouse District is worth exploring. It is good to have some nightlife to participate in because it extends the pleasures of a vacation. Things look different at night and it somehow has a completely different atmosphere to the daytime. Many of us would experience it back at home, so why not see what it is like in a place that we have never visited before? Check out the skyline from Edgewater Park Just a short drive away from downtown is Edgewater Park, a beautiful public park along the shores of Lake Erie. It's perfect for a peaceful walk, a picnic lunch, or a day spent fishing. There's also a playground and a beach, making it a great spot for families. Skylines are always a sight to behold and something to photograph as a memory to take back with us. Parks are a great place to relax. More so when they are close to water. Anything involving water seems to have that calming effect. We can then truly relax while we are on vacation. We can relax for even longer if we decide to extend our vacation. As well as the above, you could have drinks or dinner at one of downtown's many restaurants and bars. Not just once, on an extended stay, but several times, trying different venues. Alternatively, if you booked for a more luxury hotel, you might want to simply enjoy the variety and culinary delights their menu offers. Luxury hotels do tend to attract the best chefs in the world. Exploring Downtown Cleveland is a breeze when you're staying in one of the many hotels in the area. With so much to see and do, it's easy to stay longer and take advantage of everything downtown has to offer. From catching a game at Progressive Field or Quicken Loans Arena to exploring the Cleveland Museum of Art, there's something for everyone in Downtown Cleveland. Read Also: Finding the Best Hotel in Bournemouth 6 Things Boutique Hotels Do that Makes Them Unique Few Excellent Ways to Get Discount on Hotel Booking The Many Reasons Hotel Stays Become Extended in New York City