Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary

BY  Ankita Nov 30, 2023

Embarking on a journey calls for a wardrobe that's as functional as it is fashionable. Selecting the right travel attire is a blend of art and strategy. It focuses on pieces that offer comfort during transit and style upon arrival. This guide will navigate you through the essentials of crafting a travel-friendly wardrobe. It will ensure you're prepared for any destination without compromising your style. Get ready to explore in style with fashion choices that are as adaptable and adventurous as your travel plans. The Essentials Of Travel Wardrobe Creating a travel-friendly wardrobe begins with understanding the essentials – key pieces that offer maximum versatility and comfort on the go. These staples include lightweight, breathable tops that can be layered or worn alone. There are also comfortable yet stylish bottoms like stretchy jeans or wide-leg trousers and a versatile jacket suitable for various climates. Additionally, neutral colors and simple patterns are your allies, allowing for easy mixing and matching. The essence of travel fashion lies in selecting items that not only save space in your luggage but also keep you prepared and confident. It should cover long flights to spontaneous city explorations. Coord Sets For Women - Effortless Matching Coord sets for women have revolutionized travel fashion with their effortless style and matching convenience. These sets, comprising coordinated tops and bottoms, eliminate the hassle of outfit planning, making them ideal for on-the-go dressing. Whether it's a breezy linen set for beachside holidays or a chic, tailored ensemble for urban adventures, coord sets offer a polished look with minimal effort. Their versatility extends beyond aesthetics, as pieces can be mixed and matched with other wardrobe staples, providing numerous outfit options. This effortless matching solution not only simplifies packing but also ensures you stay stylish with ease while exploring new destinations. Layering For Changing Climates Mastering the art of layering is essential for adapting to changing climates while traveling. It's about creating a flexible outfit that you can modify throughout the day to suit varying temperatures. Start with a lightweight base layer, like a breathable cotton tee or tank, and add a long-sleeve shirt or blouse for added warmth. Incorporate a versatile sweater or cardigan that you can remove easily as and when you need. Top off with a weather-appropriate outer layer, such as a waterproof jacket or a cozy coat. By layering smartly, you ensure comfort and style, no matter where your travels take you or how the weather shifts. Multi-Purpose Clothing Multi-purpose clothing is a game-changer in travel fashion, offering style and functionality without overpacking. Convertible dresses that you can wear in multiple ways or pants that zip off into shorts are versatile. They are ideal for travelers looking to maximize their wardrobe options with minimal items. Look for garments that can transition from day to night or casual to formal with just a few tweaks. This approach not only lightens your luggage but also gives you the flexibility to adapt to different activities and settings. It ensures you’re always appropriately and stylishly dressed on your journeys. Travel Outfits For Ladies - Comfort Meets Style Regarding Travel Outfits for Ladies, striking the perfect balance between comfort as well as style is key. Opt for ensembles that offer ease of movement and can withstand hours of transit yet are chic enough to step out into a new city. Elastic waistbands, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and layers are your best friends. A stylish maxi dress paired with a denim jacket or a comfortable jumpsuit accessorized with a scarf can make for ideal travel outfits. These choices ensure you look pulled together and feel relaxed, whether you're navigating airport terminals or exploring urban landscapes. Choosing The Right Footwear Selecting the right footwear is crucial in travel fashion, as it needs to be practical for long walks and versatile enough for different occasions. Aim for shoes that provide comfort and support, like birkenstock sandals or cushioned sneakers , without sacrificing style. A pair of chic flats or loafers can also be a great choice, easily transitioning from daytime exploration to an evening out. Ideally, footwear should be lightweight and easy to pack, and if possible, water-resistant. Remember, the best travel shoes are those that you can wear all day without discomfort yet still complement your outfits perfectly. Accessorizing On The Go Accessorizing on the go is an art that enhances your travel outfits without overburdening your luggage. Opt for versatile pieces like a statement scarf that can double as a wrap on cooler evenings or a chic hat to protect you from the sun while adding style. Jewelry should be minimal yet impactful. A pair of hoop earrings or a sleek watch can elevate any look. Also, consider a crossbody bag for hands-free convenience while exploring. These thoughtful additions shouldn't just complement your outfits; they should also offer functional benefits, making them practical choices for your travel adventures. Practical Fabrics For Travel Choosing practical fabrics is pivotal for travel-friendly fashion. Look for materials that are lightweight, easy to pack, and resist wrinkles, like nylon, polyester, or blends with spandex. Breathability is also key, especially for destinations with warmer climates; fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for their airiness. Durability is another factor – opt for fabrics that can endure multiple wears and are easy to clean, as this reduces the need for frequent laundry. Quick-drying fabrics are a bonus for those impromptu washes. These fabric choices not only ease the hassle of travel wardrobe maintenance but also ensure comfort and style throughout your journey. Packing Smart For Your Trip Packing smart is essential to ensure you have everything you need without overloading your suitcase. Begin by planning outfits for each day of your trip, considering activities and the weather. Roll clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles. Utilize packing cubes to organize outfits and compress items. Remember to pack a versatile piece that can be worn in multiple ways, and always include a layer for unexpected temperature changes. Prioritize items that can be mixed and matched, creating different looks with a few key pieces. This efficient approach to packing keeps your travel wardrobe compact yet complete. Conclusion In crafting your travel wardrobe, the goal is to merge practicality with style, ensuring every item has a purpose and a flair. With the right mix of versatile pieces, comfortable fabrics, and smart packing strategies, you can navigate any trip with confidence as well as ease. Remember, traveling in style doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or overpacking; it’s about making thoughtful choices that let you explore freely while looking and feeling your best. Read Also: Thailand Travel Guide: This Is The Best Time To Visit Stay Safe And Satisfied: Exploring Paraguay’s Culinary Delights With Travel Insurance In Mind A Newly Launched Tool ‘Skyscanner’ Inspires Travelers To Book Travel Destinations With Ease And Confidence

BY  Sibashree Feb 18, 2026

After exploring the Tamil culture and the Hindu temples of Jaffna, it was time to visit an ancient and secluded Buddhist meditation retreat in Sri Lanka.  It has stone ruins from the 1st century BC, and it was once home to the Pamsukulika Sect of monks, who were known for their meditation-based and secluded lives in the forest.  Moreover, the Ritigala Forest Monastery has an association with the stories of the Ramayana. Also, this monastery is inside the Ritigala Forest Reserve. So, it is a place where history, spirituality, and wildlife await you.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about how I climbed up the stone steps to reach the Ritigala Monastery in Sri Lanka, the history, legends, and the main attractions of visiting the ancient monastery today.  I will also talk about the transportation options.  Where Is Ritigala Forest Monastery? Sri Lanka maybe one of the cheapest places to travel in the world. However, its natural beauty and the cultural and historical richness are matchless. The Ritigala Forest Monastery is one of the hidden gems in Sri Lanka.  The Ritigala monastery is located across the mountain of Ritigala. The mountain of Ritigala is the highest mountain in the dry northern region of Sri Lanka.  It is close to Harbarana, which is again the epicenter of the cultural triangle, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple, and Polonnaruwa. It is also the gateway to many wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka.  The distance between Harbarana and the Ritigara mountain is around 21 km. Other important locations near the mountain are Anuradhapura, which is at a distance of 42 km, and Sigiriya, at a distance of 32 km.  Furthermore, the Ritigala Forest Monastery is inside the Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve.  However, remember one thing. As I mentioned in my Jaffna, Sri Lanka, travel guide, you have to rely on the locals when you are exploring the cultural landmarks or a secluded place like the Ritigala Forest Monastery.  You cannot trust Google Maps completely for locating the Ritigara mountains and monastery.  How To Reach The Ritigala Forest Monastery?  Harbarana was the base for my road trip to the Ritigara mountain and trekking further.  1. Reaching Harbarana From The Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) I took a flight to the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). The distance between the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) and Habarana is around 151 km. You can take a car rental for the entire journey. However, being a fan of the LowDownUnder Travel, I chose a different path.  After reaching the Bandaranaike International Airport, I took a taxi to Gampaha and then took a train to Harbarana. The ticket cost me around INR 400, and the travel time was around 4 hours and 40 minutes.  The Sri Lankan Railways runs two trains daily from Gampaha to Habarana.  Other airports close to Harbarana are Sigiriya Airport (18 minutes), Kandy Airport (2 hours), and Trincomalee (1 hour and 36 minutes).  2. From Harbarana To The Ritigara Mountain  From Harbarana, I took a taxi to reach Ritigara. It cost around INR 420, and the travel time was around 35-40 minutes.  You can also reserve a car or tuk-tuk to take you to the mountains, wait for you at the entrance gate, and take you back home when you are done trekking. In such cases, the reserve cost will be around INR 1000-1200.  The route from Harbarana to Ritigara was beautiful. My cab driver pointed out the local farming practices and the land on the way.  It was a fulfilling experience, and as Jaffna has a unique food scene based on its local agricultural practices, the food habits of this northern-central region of Sri Lanka. Red rice, jackfruit curry, and river fish are the staples here.   Also, my driver told me to keep my eyes open to spot elephants. However, I was not lucky enough to spot my favorite animal. I noticed some fresh dung in the road, though.  Furthermore, when the car came off the main road, the ride became a little bumpy. The route from here to the Ritigara mountain was a combination of dirt tracks and semi-paved roads.  Finally, I reached the entrance of Ritigara and purchased my ticket. The ticket cost me around INR 450, and I even got a guide for INR 1200. What Is The History Of Ritigala Forest Monastery?  The history of the Ritigala Forest Monastery goes back to the 1st century BC. You will find here more than 70 rock caves, the 9th-century meditation spots of the "Pansukulika” monks, and unadorned stone pathways.  Here is a brief historical timeline of the Ritigala Forest Monastery.  1. Establishment Of The Ritigara Forest Site For Monks Buddhist monks came here and started living in the sacred mountains in the 1st century BC. There were more than 70 caves where monks started meditating in solitude.  Even today, there are many rock inscriptions from which we can learn about how many patrons helped to build and maintain the site, which was home to monks who left the luxury of monasteries and used to meditate in the caves.  2. Receiving Royal Patronage This site received adequate royal patronage, and from the inscriptions, we especially get to know about King Pandukabhaya.  He founded Anuradhapura and built a reservoir at the base of the mountain for the hermits here in the 4th century BC.  3. Building Of The Pansukulika Sect Monastery King Sena I built the Ritigara Monastery in 833, and it was meant for the Pansukulikas or monks in rag robes.  These monks practiced the highest form of asceticism, and they were on a mission to revive the simple teachings of Lord Buddha.  4. The Decline Of The Pansukulika Sect And The Monastery  From the 9th to the 11th century, the Ritigala Forest Monastery and the Pansukulika Sect of monks enjoyed immense glory.  However, with increasing donations and the monks getting inclined toward what they earlier rejected, the core philosophy of the sect was lost.  Two rival sub-sects were formed within the Pansukulika Sect. Finally, King Vijayabahu I confiscated their extensive holdings in 1070-1110 CE as a part of a Buddhist monastic reform.  5. Abandonment And Discovery Of The Ancient Monastery Despite the royal patronage, the Ritigara Forest Monastery was abandoned around the 10th to 12th centuries due to the Chola invasions.  It was an unprotected ruin until James Mantell, the British colonial surveyor, saw the ruins while climbing up the mountain.  Then, he drew the attention of H.C.P. Bell, the first Archaeological Commissioner of Ceylon. He understood the historical and religious importance of the place and expanded it extensively in 1893.  Finally, in 1941, the 1528 hectares of the forest area, including the ruins, were designated as a Strict Nature Reserve.  Today, the conservation efforts strike a balance between the ecological and archaeological preservation of the monastery and the site.  Design And Engineering Of The Ritigala Forest Monastery: The Incredible Ruin The monastery does not look like the traditional stupas. Here, you will find interconnected stones, paved pathways, and stone bridges.  Furthermore, there are bathing areas like the famous Banda Pokuna.  The most unique thing about the Ritigara Monastery is that here you will not find any Bodhi Tree or any Buddha statue.  It is a place where you can walk, meditate, and contemplate.  You may call it a failed attempt to revive the radical simplicity of Buddhism, but for every seeker, it will always be a place to introspect and connect to a higher energy.  I had goosebumps the moment I entered the monastery. Let’s delve deeper into the unique architecture of the monastery.  1. The Padhanaghara And Stone Pathways  The ruins of the Ritigala Forest Monastery cover an area of around 120 acres. You will see around 50 distinct meditation houses or Padhanaghara in the area.  Inside each meditation house, you will find two raised platforms in the east-west direction, and those were made of stone. A small maot surrounded the platforms, and a small stone bridge connected the platforms.  Probably, these structures were used for some rituals or meditation purposes.  Interlinking stone pathways connect these meditation houses. These pathways are 1.5 meters in width, and the width is consistent as the pathways ascend the slope. These pathways also have circular intersections.  2. Water Management System, The water management system in Ritigala Forest Monastery was sophisticated. Banda Pokuna and Kumbuk Wewa, these twin ponds were carved from rocks.  Furthermore, I found a large stone trough in the courtyard, which was used for cooking food.  Also, I saw the ruins of the monastery hospital and stone mortars, which were used to grind and prepare herbal medicines.  Moreover, the monastery did not have any residential complex. The monks lived and meditated in the caves.  However, there were urinal stones, which were the only amenities or the luxury the monks enjoyed in this austere setup.  What Is The Legend Of The Ritigala Forest Monastery?  The Ritigala mountain has a connection to the Hindu mythology, the Ramayana. Attacked by Ravana, Lakshama, the brother of Lord Ramachandra, became unconscious on the battlefield.  Lord Hanuman, on Lord Rama’s command, went to fetch a life-saving medicinal herb from the Dronagiri. However, he forgot the name of the herb and carried the entire mountain on his shoulder.  When he was crossing the Palk Strait, five segments of the mountain fell from his grasp. The biggest fragment fell on the site of the Ritigara Mountain.  Now, you may not believe the legend of the Ritigala Mountain. However, the presence of various medicinal plants in the mountains keeps the myth alive.  Moreover, among the 417 species of plants here, around 96 varieties are for medicinal purposes. Moreover, the northern peaks have names such as the Wannati-kanda and Aushada-kanda.  Climbing To The Ritigala Forest Monastery In Sri Lanka  Climbing up to the Ritigara Forest Monastery was a free-flowing experience. There are many things to see, but more to feel.  Here is how I explored the ruins.  1. The Bathing Pond  As I left the ticket counter behind, I found the first ruin. I took the stone steps to visit a massive bathing area.  You have to be careful with the steps here, as they are cracks and have overgrown tree roots.  Large trees have grown in the bathing area now. However, you can still understand its massive scale.  2. A Winding Stone Path And Ruins Of The Monastery The winding stone pathway took me through various ruins, and they stood like the blueprints from a bygone era.  The most striking one among them was the ruins of the hospital. It still had a sunken bath and grinding stones for preparing medicines.  As I climbed up, I found the meditation platforms, big multi-chambered rooms, and urinals.  3. The Large Pavilion With Columns  I found a large pavilion here with big columns. However, the more intriguing was the Big Tree behind the ruin.  It is so massive that its ground roots have created a labyrinth. The road seems to fizzle out at this stage. However, my gut instinct said that there is something more.  4. The Hidden Ruin  My guide was not happy with me for continuing further. As I headed down, after the initial disappointment of landing on the forest floor, I found another ruin.  There was a stone bridge, and it took me to a promontory with a square structure. It was the ruins of the library that had many precious manuscripts.  The view from the promontory was amazing.  It is a shame that most trekkers miss it, as the signs are not adequate and often hidden in the overgrown bushes. Furthermore, most of them are only in the Sinhalese language, which only locals can read.  However, I used the absence of signboards to my advantage.  Practical Tips For A Visit To The Ritigara Forest Monastery  If you are traveling with your partner or in a group, you must reserve a tuk-tuk or car to bring you back. You may not get a passing traffic. I took the risk as it was a solo adventure.  You have to carry snacks and water. Wear sunscreen and carry insect repellents.  You will find a toilet at the entrance of the ruins. I did not use it. So, I am not sure about the condition or the amenities available.  Ritigala Forest Monastery: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Ritigala Forest Monastery. 1. How Much Time Is Needed At Ritigala? Trekking the Ritigala Forest Monastery is going to take around 2 hours. So, overall, you will at least need 3 hours in Ritigala. Trekking up the route is easy. However, walking through the cracked stone steps can be challenging.Also, signboards are scarce and incomprehensible on the route. So, you must take a local guide.  2. Where To Stay Near The Ritigala Forest Monastery? I stayed at Habarana, and the name of my hostel was The Lake Breeze. The tariff for the hostel was around INR 2000. The amenities were basic, with fans, Wi-Fi, and mosquito nets.  3. Is Taking A Tour Of Ritigala Forest Monastery Worth It? Yes, taking a tour of the Ritigala Forest Monastery is absolutely worth it. Here, you will find the ruins of the 1st century BC, and it is great for anyone with a keen interest in the history and evolution of Buddhism. Furthermore, the ambiance of the ruins is introspective and meditative. Moreover, you can easily reserve a car or tuk-tuk to reach the base of the Ritigara Mountain and then start your trek for 1.5 to 2 hours. 

BY  Sibashree Nov 20, 2016

Traveling comes with different purposes for every enthusiast. For some, it’s the act of rejuvenation, and for others, it is an exercise to connect to the soul. However, there are some adventurous souls who always seek activities or events that give them an adrenaline rush. If you are one of them, you must be looking for places of adventure in the world.   Witness the most beautiful destinations in this guide and make your choice!  The MOST Beautiful Places of Adventure in the World  You don’t always need to climb Mount Everest or make a trip to something as special as Machu Picchu to appease your adventurous soul.   Some lesser-known places of adventure can offer you the thrill you have been looking for.   1. Stairway to Heaven, Iceland:  About 24 km (about 14.91 mi) west of Erfoud town lies a magical stairway that the locals have termed the “Stairway to Heaven.”   The stairway looks more magnificent, lying in sunbathed glory during sunrise and sunset. The way the stairway lies between the magnanimous and green mountains of Iceland sounds like a passage leading straight to heaven.   Hiking amidst waterfalls and glacier walks are some popular adventurous activities here.   2. River of Flowers, Keukenhof in Holland:  Commonly known as the Garden of Europe, it’s one of the biggest flower gardens on the globe.   The beautiful corner of paradise was named after it provided kitchen herbs to the castle of Jacqueline, a Countess of Hainaut in the 15th century. In Dutch, Keukenhof means a kitchen garden.   About 7 million flower bulbs are planted manually1, and the garden harbors an extensive river of tulips running across like a stream of water all around the area. Approximately forty minutes from Amsterdam, the Tulip Spell in Holland is the best to visit in April.   You can take a ride on the whisper boat cruises in the garden or enjoy a fun-filled picnic.   3. The Silver Forest Aspen in Colorado:  The Rocky Mountain area of Aspen draws people from around the globe to see the beguiling Silver Forest that comprises silver birch trees, termed shade-intolerant species. These trees require brim sunlight without competition for food, space, and sunlight.   The trees are the highlight of the autumn spell, with golden and silvery colors strewn around the forest. It’s just too magnanimous to miss such a place. Taking a walk through the forest itself is an adventure and an experience to remember.   4. The Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, New Zealand:  The Waitomo Caves attraction is best known for its massive population of glowworm species. This species of worm is found particularly in New Zealand. They’re around the size of an average mosquito and glow in the dark. Their Larvae glow to lure prey into their threads, possibly luring them to believe they are outdoors.   Since the roof of the cave is surrounded by larvae, does it look like a glittering sky at night? The hungry larva usually glows brighter than the ones that have just fed. Amazing as it may sound, a visit to Waitomo caves involves organized tours, including a boat ride beneath the glowworm, which is magical!  5. Rottenburg Village, Germany:  Rottenburg is a gleeful and beautiful town located in the Franconia area of Bavaria in Germany. It is a well-kept medieval old town, which is a destination for visitors from all walks of the world.   The city is a common representation of German enchantment. How can you miss seeing this romantic place?   In addition, artists have taken inspiration from this village's exclusive location, whose towers and 42 skyline gates are unmistakable.   Lying amidst magnificent, unspoiled countryside with a walkable town wall with medieval fortifications enclosing the historic center, the village, with its artistic treasures and winding alleyways, is the perfect place to relax. However, if you are willing to spend a significant time in this place, you need to go for immigration assistance. 6. Shifen Waterfall, Taiwan:  A scenic waterfall situated in Pingxi District, Taipei City in Taiwan, is the most majestic waterfall in Taiwan. The waterfall’s height of 20 meters by 40 meters in breadth makes it the widest waterfall in Taiwan.  It’s a cascade-style fall in the same direction and rock tilted in the opposite. A famous tourist destination, Shifen Falls is unique since it comprises other waterfalls coming together to form a fantastic view. Moreover, people are so helpful - you will always find help. I found the right assistance for starting a business here and now I’m a successful travel business owner who works from literally anywhere in the world. 7. Athabasca Falls, Canada:  Athabasca Waterfall is in Jasper Park on the upper Athabasca River, about 35 kilometers (about 21.75 mi) south of Jasper, in Canada. It’s one of the most powerful falls in Canada and the most beautiful places of adventure in the world.   Moreover, it is a major tourist stopover along the Icefields Parkway. It’s always a busy place on mid-summer days. The appropriate time for its full beauty is at dusk, during which the fall looks like a beautiful blue orb dancing alongside the nearby golden cliffs.  8. Red Beach, China:  Sand is the first thing that rings into your mind when you start thinking of beaches. However, this isn’t the case with Panjin Red Beach. The beach is red with no sand covering at all. This phenomenon emanates from Sueda – seaweed.   The beach is in the reed marsh and is the biggest wetland in the world, hosting the complete ecosystem ever found. The beach has become a habitat for over 250 species of birds and 399 species of wild animals.   The area is also known as the home of cranes since you can find Black Beaked Gulls and the Endangered Cranes”. Panjin Red Beach is one of those destinations that are hard to believe exist!  9. Kauai, Hawaii:  Kauai Island is in the mid-Pacific region of the Hawaiian archipelago. It has the nickname of “Garden Isle” due to the tropical rainforest surrounding much of its area.   The dramatic pinnacles, together with the cliffs of its Na Pali, have served as a backdrop for Hollywood films, while the 10-mile Waimea Canyon, together with the Nounou Trails cutting across the Giant Ridge, are wandering destinations. However, the most attractive destination is Kauai Falls, which resembles a silky stream of water gliding down to a fascinating array!  10. The Rolling Hills, Czech Republic:  The Rolling Hills in the Czech Republic are a spectacle to look at. A scenic view of what looks like a carpeted hill is a mesmerizing view you can experience once in a lifetime.  From here, you can visit the St. Barbara's chapel. Start your day early if you want to visit the Rolling Hills, as the area looks the best in Sunlight.   11. National Park, Utah:  You can forge new memories at the fiery red rock while embracing your most adventurous part of Utah’s national park, depending on whether such side likes exploring new terrain on short nature hikes, pedaling canyon rims, or navigating slot canyons.   Utah’s national park features the most amazing landscapes in the globe. Golden arches cover the region with a spectacular view you cannot afford to miss.  Bon Voyage!  While visiting the places of adventure in the world, you must be particular about your travel essentials. Your travel itinerary will include a lot of outdoor activities. So, you must choose your travel gear, boots, and outfits correctly. In addition, you have to carry essential medicines and protein bars.  However, the trick here is to only carry the things you need and keep your bag light. You even need to choose your backpack or duffle bag that can fulfill your traveling needs.