What To Do In Shinjuku As A First Time Traveler? 10+ Attractions You Cannot Miss In 2026 

BY  Sibashree Mar 31, 2026

A trip to Nara was long overdue, and as the first permanent capital of the country, it is a must-visit.  Furthermore, this Japanese capital, before 794 AD (then Kyoto became the capital), has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  The Todai-ji Temple is the most famous among these 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will find one of the largest Buddha statues in the country here, and the statue is made of bronze.  Of course, the deer roaming in the city are beautiful, and you feel like getting transported to a bygone era.  It reminded me of one of the most famous literary works in our country, Shakuntalam Abhigyan, an immortal love story between King Dushyanta and Shakuntala, written by Kalidasa in Sanskrit.  Also, this is a place that will ask you to come back, and most people plan a day trip to experience its historical charm and natural beauty.  But, smitten by its beauty, I chose a 2-day trip, and here is the list of things to do in Nara. Also, I will discuss how I can get to Nara.  How To Reach Nara?  Nara is easily accessible from Kyoto, which is also famous for its history and cherry blossom season.  You can also visit Nara from the Osaka prefecture. So, overall, a visit to Nara can fit well into your itinerary of visiting the Kansai region of Japan.   Also, the robust railway system of Japan makes it easy and budget-friendly to visit Nara. A Japan Railway Regional Pass will be the best for traveling across Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe, and the entire Kansai Region.  Also, when in Osaka, don’t forget to explore the street food stalls and have the best Osaka food, including Mochis and seafood delicacies.  Here is how you can travel from Kyoto to Nara. 1. Traveling From Kyoto To Nara Through The JR Nara Line You will get an express train or a local train from Kyoto to Nara every hour.  Furthermore, if you opt for the Miyakoji Rapid Service on this line, you will reach Nara within 45 minutes, and the ticket price will be 720 JPY.  Also, the local train services, with the same ticket price, will take about 70 minutes.  Once you reach the JR Nara station, you will get buses to the Nara Park and other top attractions in Nara.  2. Take The Kintetsu Railway To Reach Nara From Kyoto This is the most convenient way to reach Nara from Kintetsu Railway Station.  The train journey is the fastest, and the journey takes about 35 minutes by the express trains, and the ticket price is 1280 JPY.  Also, the regular trains take about 45 minutes to complete the journey. The ticket price is 760 JPY.  What Are The Things To Do In Nara?  From a visit to the Nara Park to exploring Heijo Palace and the temples, there are many things to do in Nara.  Here are the things I did during my 2-day stay.  1. Day 1 In Nara: Exploring The Nara Park  With deer passing by, Nara Park, the home to the main attractions in Nara, is a place you cannot simply miss.  The park is free to enter, and it remains open for 24 hours.  However, many attractions in the park close after 5 PM. So, you have to be early when visiting it.  Also, here are the attractions you will come across in the Nara Park, along with the deer passing by.  • Kasuga Taisha One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nara, Kasuga Taisha, takes us back to the Nara Period from 710 to 794 AD.  It is the most revered shrine among the Fujiwara clan as the tutelary shrine.  Furthermore, the main attraction of the shrine is the “Hall of Lanterns.” There, I saw many bronze lanterns illuminating the darkness.  During the special festivals, Setsubun Mantoro in February and Chugen Mantoro in August, all these lanterns are lit.  Moreover, you will find a cider tree in the inner shrine, and it is 1000 years old.  • Mt. Wakakusa I took the back road from Kasuga Taisha on the way to the Todai-Ji temple.  I came across many small shrines there. However, the highlight was Mt. Wakakusa.  This hill between the two shrines has a height of 350 meters. Also, on the 4th Saturday of January, it becomes the venue for the Wakakusa Yamayaki celebration.  People burn dead grass on the slopes, and this is a ritual that has been celebrated since the 18th century.  • Todai-Ji Todai-Ji is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.” It was built in 752 AD, and it was the head of all the temples in the province. It even had a strong influence on the royal family.  In fact, with Todai-Ji being the seat of control even in the royal decisions, the emperor decided to move the capital to Nagaoka in 784 AD.  However, the main attraction of the Todai-Ji Temple is the massive Buddha statue, or Daibutsu.   A depiction of Dainichi Nyorai,  it represents the primordial Buddha in the orthodox East Asian Buddhist philosophy.  You will also find two similarly sized Bodhisattva statues here.  However, the temple and statues you see today were burned down, and they were rebuilt during the Edo period (1603–1868).  2. Things To Do In Nara: Day 2 I visited the Heijo Palace and many other temples of Nara on day 2.  • Visiting The Heijo Palace  When Nara was the capital, the Heijo Palace was the seat of power for the chrysanthemum throne.  It had a dimension of 1 kilometer, considering the other palaces and architecture of that time.  However, the remains of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nara are now at the Toshodai-ji Temple, nearby.  However, since the 1950s, archaeologists have been studying the remains of the Heijo Palace, and this has evoked further public interest.  That is why you can now see many placards there and read about the history and legacy of the site.  Moreover, the audience hall and two other parts of the palace were rebuilt. The restoration of the largest part, the audience hall, happened in 2010.  It was an ode to the 1300th anniversary of Nara as the capital of Japan.  • Toshodai-Ji As I have mentioned, the Toshodai-ji Temple has the remains of the Heijo Palace.  This temple dates back at least a millennium. Ganji, a Chinese monk, built this temple in 759 AD.  Monk Ganji brought Buddhism to Japan, and the Toshodai-Ji today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  • Yakushi-Ji It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and people here worship Lord Buddha as Yakushi Nyorai or the Medicine Buddha.  The dual main halls here have unique architecture, and each has a dedicated 3-story pagoda.  • Horyu-ji  Horyu-Ji is older than most temples in the Nara region, and Prince Shotoku founded it in 607.  Furthermore, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands out with its wooden edifices, which are some of the oldest in Japan. This time, I missed many attractions such as Asuka, Omiwa Shrine, and Mount Yoshino. Some day for sure!  And till then, Sayōnara, guys!

BY  Sibashree Apr 1, 2026

A wide array of geological diversity can be found throughout Sri Lanka,  Galle Fort is an example of one of these "anomalous" or "atmospheric" geographical locations. It's an ancient walled city "planted" in the humid tropical climate of these islands' eastern coastlines. Moreover, walking into the gates of the Fort feels like entering another era.  Also, it will engage your senses as your nostrils will pick up aromas such as wood burning to produce heat for cooking, Ceylon tea being created, and the salty smell of the Indian Ocean.  You'll see and feel the blending of multiple cultures and religions, all coming together to produce a brightly colored blend of coloniality.  The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988.  The fort is a living museum that started as a Portuguese fortification during the 16th Century. Further, it was heavily fortified and redesigned by the Dutch and English. Because of this layered history, Galle is blessed with the most unique accommodation landscape in Sri Lanka. So, here are the best hotels in Galle to stay. The Best Luxury Hotels In Galle: Celebrating The Heritage For those seeking a deep dive into the "Golden Age" of Galle, these properties offer more than just a bed.  They offer a sensory journey through time. 1. The Fort Bazaar If you would like to be a modern merchant, The Fort Bazaar is the place to go!  It is situated on Church Street in a renovated 17th-century building into a stylish boutique hotel.  Although it has all the style and elegance of a classic Dutch house on the outside, inside you will find a distinctly Middle Eastern feel with its patterned tiles, arched walkways, and large, airy courtyards.  This hotel is unique in that it combines high-end luxury and the feeling of “home away from home”. 2. Thambili House By Edwards Collection Thambili House holds supreme value for privacy.  The 300-year-old villa in which Thambili House is located was constructed by a spice merchant and has been lovingly restored.  What really makes this property unique is its location.  Moreover, you can sit at the outdoor pool on the West side of the property and watch the Sun set in the southern Indian Ocean. Also, the interiors are a treasure trove of 16th to 18th-century antiques, making it feel less like a hotel and more like a private estate. 3. The Fort Printers The Fort Printers is truly a designer's paradise.  Once an 18th-century mansion (and then a printing company), it has been transformed into an elegant boutique hotel with a minimalist design approach.  The color scheme is a relaxing combination of warm tones along with the use of customised timber features throughout. It's both subtle and low-key, and yet highly elegant. 4. The Charleston Hotel, Galle Fort The Charleston, a newcomer to 2023, is in a 15th-century building and is attracting a modern true culture.  It is geared towards the modern-traditionalist, who wants to know the gods of The Fort (Charleston), and to enjoy the sleekness of an international metropolitan destination. The Terrace Rooms have direct access to lush tropical gardens.  Moreover, the Courtyard Rooms have a larger area with a view of the historic ramparts around the Fort.  Also, the Rooftop Terrace is a great place to enjoy a sunset cocktail at the Fort with a view of the entire Fort (360 degrees). 5. Taru Villas Rampart Street This place is ideal if you want to be close to the fort's buzz but still enjoy quiet moments.  You can walk through the alleys and visit museums during the day, then return to your private pool and cozy lounge at night.  The architecture is bold and mixes old colonial styles with modern touches. 6. Le Grand Galle And Tamarind Hill (By Asia Leisure)  These two are different from most of my selections because they are outside the Fort walls.  Le Grand Galle sits just beyond the fort walls, right on the ocean.  It's a full five-star stay with a top-tier spa for relaxing after dining.  Tamarind Hill is quieter, tucked back from the noise. It looks like a historic manor with classic decor and traditional service. Plus, it seems hard to ignore how polished both feel. What Are The Best Mid-Range Hotels In Galle? Being a mid-range in Galle does not necessarily refer to "average.”  There, mid-range are already mansions that are historic, with prices to some extent more accessible.  1. Galle Fort Hotel Originally a residence of a gem merchant, the Galle Fort Hotel is an 11-suite boutique property that has won numerous awards for its sensitive restoration.  The highlight is a magnificent and magical pool, which acts as the main area of the mansion.  It is eccentric, varied, and closely associated with the artistic history of the town.  2. The Bartizan The Bartizan occupies a Dutch building from the early 17th century and, by the name alone, it focuses on its "fortress" aspect.  Even though the hotel has been brought up to date with several changes, thick stone walls and narrow windows still remind one of its given history as a defensive structure.  The courtyard faces the Fort's outline and the sea, giving you a view from the walls and the sea.  3. Yara Galle Fort Yara is a comfort-oriented "homey" type of place.  The Dutch colonial architecture is on point at Yara, yet the atmosphere is much friendlier and less formal than the top-end luxury ones.  The bathrooms are really something light, trendy, and pretty large, surprisingly for a heritage building. 4. Mango House  If you are looking for a place that boasts a "hip" vibe rather than merely being "historic, " Mango House is the one.  It is a mix of Dutch colonial style with European and Asian accents.  The secluded courtyard with its tropical greenery brings in the light and creates a youthful and fresh feeling that is hard to resist.  Authentic And Affordable: What Are The Best Budget Hotels In Galle? Just because you want to stay on a budget in Galle doesn't mean that you have to dwell in a concrete box outside the town. You can find several jewels within the Fort that, besides being charming, don't come with a heavy price.  1. Arches Fort You can enjoy staying in this villa as it has nine nicely decorated rooms.  Furthermore, it has all the features like wooden floors, large-sized beds, and bathrooms attached that make it your best "value for money" option in the area. 2. Shoba Traveller's Tree  It is not merely a roof over one's head. Instead, it is a cultural immersion.  Shoba, being a homestay, unveils the mythic Sri Lankan generosity of spirit.  It may not feature all the "luxury" amenities of a five-star hotel, but it certainly has a big heart.  Moreover, the community lounge is an amazing place where one can meet new people and exchange stories over a pot of tea. 3. Iffa House & Secret Garden Iffa House Iffa House is an inexpensive comfort that recognizes the significance of air conditioning in the muggy tropical climate. I Also, it's quite close to the Historical Mansion Museum, making it a superb jumping-off point for the adventurous. Secret Garden, on the other hand,  is a 3-star oasis right in the heart of the Fort.  Besides a buffet breakfast every day, it boasts a small lounge bar and a large outdoor terrace where one can enjoy the fresh air and the gorgeous view. 4. Southern Comforts Leaving the main tourist landmarks just minutes away, this guest house is a type of lodging that offers allergy-friendly accommodations and soundproof windows.  Moreover, it is a simple, dependable option for those who want to have a peaceful sleep in the middle of a lively historical town. Read Also: What Are The Things To Do In Sri Lanka? Beaches, Cities, Rocks, Wildlife And Colonial Architecture What Are The Things To Do In Ella, Sri Lanka? A Narrative Of My Days In Ella Hiriketiya Beach, Sri Lanka: Location, How To Reach, Things To Do And More

BY  Sibashree Mar 16, 2026

After Kaudulla National Park and Dehiwala Zoo, the Hurulu Eco Park was another destination for me to explore Sri Lanka’s wildlife.  If places such as Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka and Kandy in Central Sri Lanka have been the cultural hubs of the country, these parks have shown how people have lived here since eternity in collaboration with nature and wildlife.  The Hurulu Eco Park is especially very close to Habarana, the epicenter of cultural and historical landmarks such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock, Ritigala Forest Monastery, and Ritigala Forest Reserve.  The distance between Habarana and the Hurulu Eco Park, at the edge of the Hurulu Forest Reserve, is just around 3 to 4 kilometers. However, despite the short distance, this eco park is quiet and understated.  Also, you know what makes Hurulu Eco Park different? Here, you relish the art of slow traveling and the scent of wet soil after a fresh spell of rain.  Furthermore, elephants are the heart of this eco park, and watching them grazing through the golden light is a delight.  Here is more about this beautiful eco park in Sri Lanka.  Hurulu Eco Park, Sri Lanka: Quick Details  Hours Open7 AM to 6 PMLast Time to Enter5 PMPark Entrance Fee- $15-25 for an Adult- $5 for Children above 6 Years- Free for Children below 6 YearsSafari Cost$65 OnwardSafari DurationAround 3 HoursBest Time to VisitDecember to June Where Is Hurulu Eco Park And How To Reach?  In Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Hurulu Eco Park is between the landmarks such as Polonnaruwa (1 hour and 15 minutes), Anuradhapura (1 hour and 50 minutes), Dambulla (45 minutes), and Sigiriya (45 minutes).  So, often there is a safari add-on to explore these ancient cities and the cultural landmarks.  Furthermore, as mentioned, it is closest to Habarana. So, ideally, it should be your base.  Habarana also has many budget, mid-budget, and luxury accommodations. Moreover, most hotels in Habarana, Dambulla, and Sigiriya offer door-to-door safari facilities.  You can expect a pick up around one hour before the safari time.  Moreover, you can take a train from Trincomalee, Kandy, or Colombo to reach Habarana Junction. From there, you can take a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride to reach the eco park.  However, online booking for these train tickets may not work most of the time.  The Landscape Of Hurulu Eco Park  Hurulu Eco Park is a mix of open plains, rock, and jungle.  Furthermore, as a part of the dry evergreen forest area of Sri Lanka, it functions as an important corridor for elephants roaming between Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks.  So, you can easily spot Sri Lankan elephants here, especially the mothers and babies making small groups and moving.  Along with elephants, you can also spot peacocks, spotted deer, macaques, langurs, and many birds here.  What I Saw At Hurulu Eco Park  I was initially disappointed the day I had to visit the Hurulu Eco Park. I thought that the tropical rain would mess up my safari experience.  However, I opted for an afternoon safari, and by the time I reached Hurulu, except for the heavy dampness in the air, everything was fine.  Also, the mud on the track was not a problem to start the safari in full swing.  After a few turns in the park, I could spot a herd of elephants, and they were winding up leaves and fruits with their trunks. Moreover, they were flapping their ears.  Then, after waiting for 15 minutes, the herd passed by and we continued our safari.  We passed through rocks, canopies, and bushes. I spotted a peacock and monkeys before reaching an open land. And that was the moment of the entire safari.  At least 25 elephants were grazing, and the younger ones were rolling in the mud.   Finally, the air became cooler, and the sky started getting red. So, our jeep driver planned a return.  How To Plan A Safari In The Hurulu Eco Park?  Safaris in Hurulu Eco Park include a guide, a jeep, park entry, and a pickup and drop off from Hurulu Eco Park.  Morning safaris are the best, ideally starting from 7 AM. Furthermore, like me, you can also opt for an afternoon safari at 1 PM.  Furthermore, each jeep carries about 6 tourists. Also, you must carry some water, wear sunscreen, and a hat. What Is The Best Time To Visit Hurulu Eco Park? The best time to visit Hurulu Rco Park is between December and June. Especially, February to April is the ideal time to see the lush landscapes and the biggest elephant herds.  Furthermore, the number of jeeps is quite low in these months.  Again, from May onward, the conditions become drier, and the elephants start moving from the Kaudulla National Park to the Minneriya National Park. So, in Hurulu Eco Park, you will notice smaller herds of elephants.  Moreover, from October to January is the wet season, and the jungle becomes the most vivid. So, these months are the best for photographers.  Photography Tips For Hurulu Eco Park  You will find a mix of open plains, forest shades, and red earth in Hurulu Eco Park. So, the landscape is challenging yet interesting for photographers.  Furthermore, for photography, you must bring a 70-200 mm lens. It is ideal to capture wildlife, and the wider lens is the best to frame the color and scale of Hurulu Eco Park during the golden hour.  Moreover, after the rain, the conditions become more ideal for photography. Grey elephants, red dust, and the green foliage create wonderful frames.  Again, the light filters through the tree branches becomes low in the late afternoon. So, you can capture the texture and warmth of the Hurulu Eco Park. Things To Keep In Mind For A Visit To Hurulu Eco Park  Do not use single-use plastic bottles during the safari to minimize the impact on the environment, wildlife, and marine life.  Furthermore, keep the water use to a minimum level to reduce the pressure on water resources.  Moreover, collect your souvenirs from the local shops and eat at the local eateries to help the economy of the community.