REST OF THE WORLD – YOTRIPP TRAVEL https://yotripp.com Travel and Travel Marketing Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:20:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 BEST ANGLING SPOTS IN YATELEY https://yotripp.com/best-angling-spots-in-yateley/ https://yotripp.com/best-angling-spots-in-yateley/#respond Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:45:32 +0000 https://yotripp.com/?p=2182

BEST ANGLING SPOTS IN YATELEY

Sports is not just a part of life; it is a way of life. And anyone who indulges in a sport regularly will tell you the same.

Those who play golf, go skiing, trekking, rafting, cycling, surfing, fishing or for any other outdoor activity, understand the importance of finding the right place for the sport. The perfect waves, the most beautiful roads, rocky trails, curvy slopes, smooth greens and lakes teeming with fish, all ensure that you have a memorable experience, whether you are competing or playing for leisure.

Angling, for example, is a sport that requires appropriate water depth, waves or lack thereof, shade and of course, plenty of fish. Finding a spot that has all the right weather and water conditions could be a bit of a task.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Brian Yurasits on Unsplash

So here is a list of the best angling spots in Yateley, one of UK’s most popular carp fishing destination.

01.

Sandhurst Lake

The picturesque lakes of Yateley complex have attracted thousands of anglers each year. The Sandhurst Lake, situated on the eastern side of the complex, is open for visitors on a daily ticket basis. The lake depth is 5 ft on an average and it is about 14 acres in size. The lake is famous for the well-known carp and has held records for 40lb+ carp as well. 


Day tickets cost between £25 and £35 for 24 hours, depending on the number of rods (2 or 3). All bookings are to be done online and in advance.

The website – https://www.sandhurstlake.co.uk/ – provides maps for anglers to view all the individual swims.

Picture Courtesy:Sandhurst Lake Official Website

02.

Pads Lake

Owned by Yateley West Fishery, the 4-acre Pads Lake at Yateley is one of the best spots for angling in the UK, owing to abundant carp presence and the Yateley Angling Centre just nearby for any bait or tackle needs.


The name of the lake comes from the water lilies that grow on the lake’s western bank. The Pads Lake is a good option during winters as well.


Advance reservations can be made directly with the Yateley Angling Centre, and the best part is that visiting groups can book the entire lake.

Picture Courtesy:Needpix Creative Commons

03.

Car Park Lake

If you want to test your angling abilities in some difficult waters and tread in the footsteps of angling icons, head to Car Park Lake, often considered as a premier league spot in carp fishing. Car Park lake is one of the highlights in British angling history, where pros like Terry Hearn and Rob Maylin have caught a few residents.

Picture Courtesy:Official Facebook Page of Car Park Lake, Yateley

04.

Yateley Split Lake

This 8.5-acre lake is home to a large number of Carp, Tench and Monster Cats (weighing up to 70lb or 80lb). The Yateley Split Lake houses a large Ghostie that seems to be over 40lb but nobody has been successful in catching this one yet.


The lake shows a lot of promise for anglers, young and experienced, looking to get some big ones into their net.

Picture Courtesy:Image by Peter Raimann from Pixabay

05.

Blackwater River

For those wanting a bit of a change from lake fishing, the Blackwater River at Yateley offers shallow, clear waters to anglers who can catch Chub, Roach, Perch, Dace and Barbel here. This river is located to the east of Yateley road and shares a border with some of the other lakes.

The Blackwater River area is owned by the Farnham Angling Society, established in 1906. You need to be a member of the society to be able to fish in this river. Membership registrations for the current year are open and more information can be found on this website. 

Picture Courtesy:Farnham Angling Society Offician Website – Dean Windsor

06.

Watmore Farm Fishery

Although this one is not a part of the 11 lakes of Yateley complex, the Watmore Farm is a family-run fishery, providing anglers beautiful and clean waters, good quality fish and serene surroundings. This 5-acre lake is located close to Hampshire and has been open for more than 14 years now. The peculiarity of this lake is the depth, which is anywhere between 2 ft and 19 ft. The stable water temperature, because of this depth ensures constant fish feeding. Common fish found here are Mirror Carp, Perch, Tench and Roach.  

Tickets (1 or 2 rods) cost about £8 to £12. The lake has a total of 45 swims and you can also book in advance for matches. The schedule of events is available on this website.

Do keep in mind that whichever lake or river you visit, anglers need to have a valid rod license, must follow all the lake rules and do their best to preserve the environment as it is.

Picture Courtesy:Watmore Fishery Official Facebook Page

NB.

Fishing Ticket Options in Yateley

Yateley offers a variety of fishing ticket options catering to different interests. If you’re interested in day fishing, you can enjoy targeting big carp at places like Sandhurst Lake. For those who prefer bream angling, there are spots such as Horseshoe Lake and others to explore.

In addition to day tickets, there are also season ticket options available. These season tickets allow for carp fishing across numerous lakes in the Yateley area, giving you the flexibility to fish over an extended period.

Whether you’re after a quick day-trip or a season-long adventure, Yateley has fishing experiences ready for every enthusiast.

Amenities for Anglers in Yateley

Yateley is a fishing enthusiast’s haven, brimming with a variety of angling opportunities and essential amenities.

Fishing Locations

  • River Blackwater: Offers an exciting spot for river fishing enthusiasts.
  • Summer Pit & Split Lake: Ideal areas for tench fishing, with Split Lake also offering catfish angling.
  • Sandhurst Lake: A popular destination for those interested in catching big carp, available on a day ticket basis.
  • Horseshoe Lake: Known for its vibrant bream angling scene.
  • Season Ticket Options: Many lakes in the area provide season ticket opportunities for dedicated carp anglers.

Fishing Supplies

For all your fishing gear needs, Yateley hosts a specialized fishing tackle shop, namely the Yateley Angling Centre. Whether you need bait, rods, or expert advice, it’s conveniently located in town.

Grocery Stores

Before heading out on a trip, stock up on necessities at local supermarkets:

  • Waitrose: Situated at Tresham Crescent, perfect for gourmet and everyday needs.
  • Tesco Express: Located on Reading Road, providing quick and easy options for those in a hurry.

The 4-acre Pads Lake at Yateley is one of the best spots for angling in the UK, owing to abundant carp presence and the Yateley Angling Centre just nearby for any bait or tackle needs. For those looking to stock up on general supplies or looking for tackle shops in Yateley before heading to alake, this offers convenient options.

Anglers can visit the Waitrose located at Tresham Crescent, GU46 6FR, which provides a variety of groceries and essentials. Alternatively, the Tesco Express on Reading Road, GU46 7UH, offers a quick stop for last-minute needs.

Whether you’re preparing for a day at the lake or an extended fishing trip, these local stores ensure you’re well-equipped for a successful outing.

With its plethora of fishing venues and conveniences, Yateley is well-equipped to ensure your angling adventures are smooth and enjoyable.

Are there any no-fishing areas in Yateley?

Yateley features several areas where fishing is prohibited. These include Firgrove Manor, both the northern and southern parts of Colebrook Lake, as well as Grove Lake. Additionally, Horseshoe Lake is identified as a lake where fishing is not allowed.

Exploring species pages for Yateley

The species pages provide an in-depth guide to enhance your Yateley fishing experience. They offer information on the various fish types available, helping you choose the right fisheries. Whether you’re targeting carp, pike, tench, trout, catfish, or barbel, you’ll find a wealth of insights tailored to each species.

Customizable Search Options

Utilize customizable search options to fine-tune your fishing plans. You can browse by:

  • Day Tickets: Perfect for a spontaneous fishing outing.
  • Night Fishing: For those who enjoy the tranquility of fishing under the stars.
  • Season Tickets: Ideal for regular anglers who commit to the sport over time.

With this comprehensive resource, anglers of all skill levels can make informed decisions and plan their perfect fishing trip.

How to update or add your fishery or angling club listing for Yateley?

If you’re looking to have your fishery or angling club included in our listings, or need to update existing information, we’ve made the process simple and straightforward. Follow the steps below to ensure your details are accurately reflected.

  1. Reach Out to Us: Begin by sending us an email or filling out our online contact form. Make sure to include “Fishery/Angling Club Listing” in the subject line for quicker processing.
  2. Provide Necessary Details: Include essential information such as the name of the fishery or angling club, location, contact details, and any relevant updates or corrections.
  3. Free Listing Policy: Rest assured, all submissions for adding or updating listings are completely free of charge.
  4. Confirmation: Our team will review your submission and send a confirmation once your listing is live or updated.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions! We’re here to help ensure that all anglers have access to accurate and up-to-date information.

Author: Sayali Bedekar

Travel blogger and entrepreneur. Travelling since the age of 6. Experienced the expat life in Malta, Belgium, South Africa, USA, Malaysia, Bangladesh and several other countries. Travelled to countries like Sweden, France, Hungary, Netherlands, Austria, Spain, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand, Italy, and others. More to come, fingers crossed.
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]]> https://yotripp.com/best-angling-spots-in-yateley/feed/ 0 UNDERGROUND FUN AT SALINA TURDA https://yotripp.com/underground-fun-at-salina-turda/ https://yotripp.com/underground-fun-at-salina-turda/#respond Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:10:24 +0000 https://yotripp.com/?p=2171

UNDERGROUND FUN AT SALINA TURDA

We have all probably visited many theme parks in different regions of the world and thoroughly enjoyed a day out in the sun and cool breeze. But the underground Salina Turda in Romania offers you a fun amusement park experience you will never forget- 120 metres under the ground!


A subterranean amusement park is a concept difficult to grasp, let alone build. But Salina Turda is a stunning masterpiece of human labour, skilled engineering and unbelievable creativity. Originally a salt mine from Antiquity till the end of excavations in 1932, Salina Turda has served as a bomb shelter during World War II and a cheese storage facility before being opened to the public in 1992 as an incredible submerged wonderland.

01.

Location

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Adrian Moise on Unsplash

Turda is the second-largest city in the Cluj County of Northwest Romania. The salt mine is located in the Durgău- Valea Sărată area of Turda. The 2000-year-old salt mine is now a popular tourist destination owing to its historical significance combined with modern attractions at a never-before-seen location.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Adrian Moise on Unsplash

02.

History

Since the 17th century, Salina Turda saw extensive mining and excavation for salt. The mining work expanded during Rome’s occupation of Dacia. An interesting fact about this humongous mine is that no explosions were usedto create it. The entire excavation was undertaken by hand using free people who were paid in kind (wine, ox, loaves of bread).

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Vincent Erhart on Unsplash

03.

Present Use

Every well, gallery, passageway and shaft of the Salina Turda has been turned into a surreal marvel today. The mine was opened to tourists in the year 1992. Under an infrastructure renovation project, Salina received an overhaul in 2008 and was reopened for the public in 2010.


In 2013, Salina Turda was ranked as a part of Business Insider’s list of “25 hidden gems around the world that are worth a trek”. More than 6 lakh (6 hundred thousand) tourists visited the mine in 2017.


The mine has been used as a Halotherapy centre since its opening. The conditions inside the mine are therapeutic and help people with lung problems get some relief. The constant air temperature, relative humidity level, ionized air and almost negligible levels of allergens and radioactivity make this a beneficial microclimate promoting better respiratory functions amongst people.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Munteanu Anca

04.

Attractions

One would imagine that an underground park like this one can probably have just a few entertainment activities, but enter this incredible underground marvel and you’ll be truly stunned. 


From a Ferris wheel to mini golf, ping pong courts to bowling alleys and an amphitheatre to paddle boats- there is way more down here than you could have ever thought. 


Keeping children and adults entertained for a longer time and making them breathe in the clean, healthy mine air was an important objective of this place. The various leisure activities set up below thus serve more than one purpose.


The Franz Josef Gallery; the Josef mine, also known as the Echoes Room; the Rudolf mine, the bell-shaped Theresa mine (90 metres high), the Little Venice boat tour, the Crivac room and the Extraction Shaft room are parts of the mine that you must explore during your visit.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Gabriel Tocu

05.

Entry and Timings

Salina Turda is open for tourists every day of the week from 9 AM to 5 PM with the last entry permitted at 4 PM. Entry ticket costs are different for children, adults, senior citizens and specially-abled persons but the general cost for an adult would be 40 lei (Romanian currency), which is about USD 9. Children below 3 years of age get free entry. 


The ticket only covers entry charges and visitors have to pay separately for parking and to use the different leisure activities underground, like boating, bowling, mini-golf, pool tables or rowboats.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Andrei Dan Suciu

06.

Travel Tips

This colossal subterranean cavern is a geological wonder with shiny walls, stalactites and other salt formations. But do keep in mind that as you go deeper into the ground, it gets colder. So, dress warmly.


Large and organised groups can benefit from Guide services, tours and free entry vouchers subject to certain conditions. Free audio guides are also available for download in English, Romanian and Hungarian.

Be patient, for there will be long lines for the elevator. If you are game, you can take the long flight of stairs as well.

See history unravel before your eyes as you journey from salt deposits dating back millions of years to modern leisure facilities; many fathoms below!

Get more information on the Salina Turda from thisofficial website.

Salina Turda offers great fun for the whole family, but it is important to note that kids under the age of 3 (and the elderly) require a medical permit to enter the amusement park. Pets of any kind are not allowed inside either.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Andrei Dan Suciu

Author: Sayali Bedekar

Travel blogger and entrepreneur. Travelling since the age of 6. Experienced the expat life in Malta, Belgium, South Africa, USA, Malaysia, Bangladesh and several other countries. Travelled to countries like Sweden, France, Hungary, Netherlands, Austria, Spain, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand, Italy, and others. More to come, fingers crossed.
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]]> https://yotripp.com/underground-fun-at-salina-turda/feed/ 0 MAGICAL ALHAMBRA, GRANADA https://yotripp.com/magical-alhambra-granada/ https://yotripp.com/magical-alhambra-granada/#respond Sun, 23 Jul 2023 15:27:15 +0000 https://yotripp.com/?p=2150

MAGICAL ALHAMBRA, GRANADA

I’ll be honest. ‘Memories of Alhambra’ brought me here. You know that famous KDrama with a fantastic twisty-turn-y storyline and the absolutely gorgeous backdrop of Granada in Spain. Yup, that’s the one. Of course, you could be a bibliophile who wants to be here thanks to Washington Irving’s ‘Tales of Alhambra’. And that’s good enough too.

But now that I have researched a place so hauntingly beautiful, I just can’t get her off my mind. And hence I’ve pencilled in the bullet point that reads ‘visit Alhambra Palace‘, on my newly updated bucket list. Join me in admiring this beauty; you probably won’t be able to resist anyway as you read further.

Top 6 Reasons to Visit Alhambra

01.

Alhambra is truly a spectacular palace-cum-fortress with the stunning natural backdrop of the majestic Sierra Nevada peaks. No matter where you view her from, the palace offers impressive views of Andalusia’s beautiful countryside. The views here are so jaw-droppingly gorgeous, that Alhambra has consistently maintained the honour of being the most-visited monument in Spain.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

02.

The beauty of Alhambra is clearly visible on the outside, with its majestic buildings. But even on the inside, the palace bowls you over with its detailed architecture, intricate carvings and designs. Mesmerizing passageways take you through the palace monuments and the detailing of the work on each, leaves behind a profound impact. The Palace of Lions and the outdoor Fountain of Lions are especially loved by visitors.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

03.

Then there are the exquisite Alhambra gardens or Generalife Gardens as they are called. These are impressive, well maintained green spaces that date back over 750 years. The gardens are so good, that they were declared a UNESCO world heritage site along with the palace in 1984; nearly 26 acres of land in total!

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

04.

Once you have strolled through the palace and its grounds, you can top the experience by visiting the fascinating Alhambra museum that displays relics and artefacts from the Nasrid era. Rare Mujedar artworks star in its seven massive exhibition halls and give you great insight into the region’s history and culture.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

05.

If you time your visit in July, Alhambra gardens play host to several outdoor concerts. In fact, the Granada International Festival of Music and Dance that’s held here in July is the perfect opportunity to experience local and international music performances at this historic location.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

06.

You will need to purchase the separate night visit tickets to visit Alhambra during the night but it is totally worth it for a phenomenal, out-of-this-world experience. When darkness falls and the lights come on, Alhambra is a vision unlike another. The beautiful palaces and gardens take on an ethereal Disney palace-like look and feel that truly casts a spell.

Pin this to your Seoul Pinterest board so you can find this post easily again.

07.

Ancient History of Alhambra

If you are not from Spain or if you haven’t ever toured Spain, you probably don’t know much about the history of Alhambra Palace. Which is a shame, because it is so spectacularly interesting. Alhambra is located at a strategic vantage point on Sabika Hill and is surrounded by defensive walls, making her an almost impregnable fortress of her times. Spread over almost 26 acres of land, Alhambra also gives you quite the workout if you intend to see all 30 of her towers and the multitude of smaller monuments within her walls.

The Moorish palace-cum-fortress of Alhambra is the standing testimony of Islamic rule in Spain. She was built by the last remaining Nasrid Emirs in 889 (yeah, not 1889, but the EIGHTH century!), which history tells us to be the Islamic Golden Age in Europe. Today, along with her two sister sites of Albaicín and Generalife Garden, Alhambra is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the finest signs of Islamic opulence in Europe, the palace that stands today has seen several changes, extensions and removals since her original construction. Post-1492, after the end of the Moorish rule, major parts of Alhambra were destroyed and then later rebuilt in the Renaissance style by Charles V. So vast is the difference in the architectural styles of the two that you can notice sharp, visible contrasts between the actual Nasrid Palace and the Palace of Charles V, where the latter resided.

Thereafter, the fortress has withstood destruction and damage by French forces, lived through an earthquake and survived several natural and manmade calamities. From 1828 till as recent as the 21st century, restoration, renovation and conservation continue at this palace and its surrounding grounds.

Alhambra, a name derived from the Arabic words qal’at al-hamra, literally translates to ‘red fort’. And the grand palace-fort, with her fine decorative artwork, landscaped gardens and enchanting water fountains, still retains all her red-stone glory despite all the restorations.

Thanks to her history, spanning centuries, not just decades, Alhambra is one of Spain’s most prolific tourist destinations today. She can draw well over 6000 people on any given day!

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

08.

Within The Walls of Alhambra

Before all the demolitions and restorations, Alhambra had 3 main sections within her walls. Apart from the palaces that housed the ruling Sultan and his kin, there was a Medina quarter and an Alcazaba base. The former was meant to be a residential area for court officials who worked at the palace and the latter was essentially a military base with residential complexes for the palace guards and their kin.

The palaces themselves were also divided into distinct areas. The Mexuar area was meant for state affairs and justice administration and hence was open to the public. The Comares Palace was the private and official residence of the Sultan and had the opulence that suited its purpose.

The Palace of Lions was the most private of areas as it was meant for the sole use of the royals. It had several rooms for the king and his mistresses and a beautiful outdoor area known as the Court of Myrtles. The palace opened up to what was known as the Courtyard of Lions, which held an enormous water fountain with twelve lion figurines.

Most of these still stand today for visitors to see. In addition to these, there are several small and large monuments and structures that are worth visiting here. The historical hall of Abencerrajes, which is said to be where a noble family was once gruesomely murdered, is notable for a ceiling that holds naturally formed stalactites. The Salon de Comares or Ambassadors Hall, Muqarnas Chamber, the Justice Gate, the great Hall of Boat, Puerta del Vino (Wine Gate) and several baths add more history and drama to the captivating stories of Alhambra.

Certain modern structures have also been added to Alhambra over the decades that passed. The most prominent of all being the statue of writer Washington Irving. It was erected in 2009, on the prolific writer’s 150th death anniversary, in the gardens outside the main palace.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

09.

The Exotic Generalife Garden

Walk over to the Cerro del Sol (Hill of the Sun) once you are done exploring the inner palaces. This is where you’ll find the Jannat al-arifa gardens (or Generalife as they are now called), some of the best, most well-preserved sections of the Nasrid estate. These well cultivated and well-maintained gardens are abundant in their greenery and stunning in their built-up architecture. Water fountains, marble canals, elaborate courtyards and pools add to the beauty of the gardens, which are made up of both ornamental as well as functional vegetation.

The contrast of the shaded patios with the sun-kissed gardens and reflective water pools make for the one-of-a-kind experience. Islamic creativity is still visible all throughout the gardens, especially when you take a closer look at the intricately carved stucco pillars and walls. Within the Generalife is a theatre where international song and dance performances are held even today.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

10.

Guided Tours of Alhambra & Generalife

You can book guided tours of Alhambra and Generalife. As there are restrictions regarding the number of visitors that Alhambra accepts per day, you should ideally book your tickets at least a month in advance to avoid disappointment. If you take a tour, you get a knowledgeable guide to take you through the history and architectural aspects of Alhambra. Besides, you also get to skip the queues, which is a big bonus considering as many as 6000 people are visiting on any given day!

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

11.

Other Information On Alhambra Visits

It will take you at least 3 hours to do a tour of Alhambra and Generalife gardens. Since tickets are allocated according to time slots (that are strictly followed), keep in mind the time you will require for a leisurely tour before you purchase your tickets. Alhambra is closed each year from the 25th of December to the 1st of January. On all other days, there are separate day, evening and night timings that you can get here.

Whether you are a solo traveller or you are holidaying with your family, Granada is an excellent vacation destination. Not only does the city give you the best of Spain but it allows you to enjoy a trip to Alhambra!

Here’s a little video that gives more insight into Alhambra’s interesting design and architecture by Eric Azares. If you like the video, do follow his travel videos here.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Author: Sayali Bedekar

Travel blogger and entrepreneur. Travelling since the age of 6. Experienced the expat life in Malta, Belgium, South Africa, USA, Malaysia, Bangladesh and several other countries. Travelled to countries like Sweden, France, Hungary, Netherlands, Austria, Spain, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand, Italy, and others. More to come, fingers crossed.
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]]> https://yotripp.com/magical-alhambra-granada/feed/ 0 POPULAR PLACES IN SRI LANKA https://yotripp.com/popular-places-in-sri-lanka/ https://yotripp.com/popular-places-in-sri-lanka/#respond Sat, 22 Jul 2023 21:21:26 +0000 https://yotripp.com/?p=1733

POPULAR PLACES IN SRI LANKA

Pristine beaches, beautiful temples, mesmerizing mountains and scenic tea gardens are just the tip of the iceberg at the island country of Sri Lanka. Formerly known as Ceylon, this small nation is situated in South Asia, in the Indian Ocean. The natural beauty of the island makes this a wonderful vacation spot for tourists. The vestiges of the Dutch, Portuguese and English rule in the region add to its charm.

Here are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka that must not be missed, especially if you are a tourist-loving person who’d prefer the popular attractions over the less-touristy places in Sri Lanka.

01.

Colombo

Colombo is the judicial and executive capital of Sri Lanka and largely serves as an entry point to the country. 

One of the most famous tourist spots in the city is the Galle Green Face, a seaside urban park along the Indian Ocean. 

Named after Queen Viharamahadevi, Colombo boasts of a grand public park that has a mini zoo, aquarium, children’s play zone, a lake and a suspension bridge.

An iconic Buddhist temple is the Gangaramaya Temple located in Colombo- a wonderful mix of Indian, Thai, Chinese and Burmese architecture. 

The National Museum of Colombo is a must-visit for history buffs. Built in an Italian architectural style, the museum houses many valuable relics of ancient dynasties and palm-leaf manuscripts in various languages.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Farhath Firows on Unsplash

02.

Sigiriya Fortress

Sigiriya is a world heritage site and a breath-taking wonder atop a mountain. The Lion’s Rock plateau is almost 600 ft high and overlooks the jungle below. Sigiriya fortress dates back to the 3rd century B.C. It was a monastery before becoming the royal residence. 


This is truly an engineering marvel; a little piece of history perched on a summit.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Carl Nenzen Loven on Unsplash

03.

Kandy

Kandy is the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, famous for tea and rubber plantations. It is also home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses a tooth of the Buddha. 


Also known as the Golden Rock Temple, the Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Kandy. This sacred Buddhist site has more than 80 caves out of which five have many beautiful paintings and statues. 


The Bahiravakanda Vihara Buddha, an 88ft white Buddha statue is located on the Bahirava Kanda hill, offering great panoramic views of the city. Best time to visit the place and see the magnificence of the statue is early morning or post sunset.


The Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy offers tourists a tour of tea making and opportunities to buy the delicious varieties as well.

Travel tips: 

The Tea Museum is closed on Mondays.

Tourists have free entry to Dambulla Cave Temple on full moon nights.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Yves Alarie on Unsplash

04.

Galle

Galle is a fortified town famous for its Portuguese and Dutch influences on architecture and city planning. The Galle Fort is an important tourist destination, which today houses various businesses and courts. Popular attractions nearby include a maritime museum, the country’s oldest lighthouse, a Shiva temple and a cathedral.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Shainee Fernando on Unsplash

05.

Arugam Bay

Adventure sports enthusiasts can head to Arugam Bay, located on the east coast of Sri Lanka. This town is a surfer’s paradise. There are multiple spots along the coast that offer adrenaline-pumping surfing opportunities for novices as well as experts. The Main Point surf break is a popular spot for experienced surfers. If you are not an expert, ride the waves at Whiskey Point or Peanut Farm. The areas along the beach offer great culinary joints and shopping options.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Etienne Boulanger on Unsplash

06.

Yala National Park

Located about 250kms from Colombo, in the south-eastern part of Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park is home to many wild beasts, reptiles and birds. Elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and water buffaloes are found here in large numbers. Leopards are the main attraction here and chances of spotting them are high. Tourists can opt for walking trails or safaris to explore the park. Camping and wildlife photography are wildly popular activities here.

Travel tip:

The park is closed in September owing to leopard breeding season.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Etienne Boulanger on Unsplash

08.

Nuwara Eliya

A visit to the lush green tea gardens at the production capital of the country- Nuwara Eliya is a must. This hill town was founded in the 19th century and is also fondly called Little England due to the Britishers who came to stay here. 


Nearby attractions include strawberry fields, Gregory Lake, Victoria Park and botanical gardens. It is the best place for a scenic train ride as well.

Travel tip:

The Best time to visit is between March and May when the tea plantations are in full bloom. Sri Lankan New Year also takes place in April.

These were some of the more popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. If you are someone who hates crowds and prefers off-the-grid, low-key, not-so-popular tourist spots, here are 6 offbeat destinations in Sri Lanka that you may find to be more to your liking.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Rowan Heuvel on Unsplash

  • 8 Popular Touristy Places in Sri Lanka: Travel to Sri Lanka
  • Popular Places in Sri Lanka

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]]> https://yotripp.com/popular-places-in-sri-lanka/feed/ 0 OFFBEAT, CROWD-FREE SRI LANKA https://yotripp.com/offbeat-crowd-free-sri-lanka/ https://yotripp.com/offbeat-crowd-free-sri-lanka/#respond Sat, 22 Jul 2023 21:14:55 +0000 https://yotripp.com/?p=1728

OFFBEAT, CROWD-FREE SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka is a wonderful island country in the Indian Ocean and makes for a scenic and affordable holiday destination; whether you are visiting with family, on a romantic getaway with your spouse or looking for some peaceful time alone. 


But no matter where you go, the tranquillity is often marred by throngs of tourists and local crowd flocking to every beach and every cave. This often puts a damper in your plans of having a quiet, relaxing vacation.

 
Here we have a list of offbeat places in Sri Lanka that are known only to a few and visited by even fewer. Of course, if you prefer more touristy destinations, check out these 8 popular places to visit in Sri Lanka instead.

01.

Hikkaduwa

From snorkelling, surfing and exploring coral reefs to lazing around on the beach, Hikkaduwa offers visitors an idyllic beach holiday.


You can explore the coral reef and see the vibrant, colourful fish in the waters. Hikkaduwa also has four shipwrecks that take diving experiences up a notch. North of the town, you can find the Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery that protects this endangered species. 


Situated close by is the Tsunami Museum as well. To the South are beautiful inland lakes and eco-gardens that are worth a visit.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Achref Kachti on Unsplash

02.

Handungoda

Nestled within the foothills of Ahangama, lies the Handungoda Tea Estate, probably the world’s only tea plantation so close to the sea. The estate is known for producing the world-famous ‘Virgin White Tea’ using traditional Chinese methods where no bare hands touch the tea leaf at any point during processing. 


Visit Handungoda for a unique tea tour experience where you can taste the delicious varieties and end with a slice of cake!

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Drew Farwell on Unsplash

03.

Haputale

Another mesmerizing spot for nature lovers is Haputale, in Badulla district. The Lipton Seat is a famous spot for watching the sunrise and taking in the green expanse in front of you turn golden. 


But the highlight of the place is the magnificent 863 feet high (Sri Lanka’s tallest) waterfall, that can be found about 16kms from Haputale. You can make a trip to this less-visited tropical paradise which is as picturesque as can be.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Yasasi Rajapakse on Unsplash

04.

Batticaloa

An exotic destination, full of beautiful lagoons, museums, churches and forts; Batticaloa is a great place if you want to relax and laze around.


A visit to the Batticaloa (Dutch) Fort and Museum will give you a chance to see some rare colonial artefacts and manuscripts. The Batticaloa Gate-the point of loading and unloading cargo that reached the port can also be seen nearby.


The biggest attraction of Batticaloa though is the Kallady Beach and ‘Singing Fish’. It is believed that a particular type of fish in the waters of Kallady emanate a singing sound at night, in certain seasons. Since olden days, Tamil fishermen have claimed that they navigate the lagoon using this mysterious sound.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Evan Florian

05.

Mannar

Mannar, located in the Northern Sri Lankan Province is the perfect combination of natural beauty, history, culture and wonderful architecture. 


The Mannar Fort, also known as the Dutch Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1560 AD. Taken over by the Dutch in 1658, the Fort got an additional four parapets. A beautifully carved entrance, the remains of a dungeon, a bell tower and a chapel is what you can explore here.


The Ketheeswaram temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Our Lady of Madhu Church are places of religious importance to Sri Lankan Tamils and Catholics. The temple is said to have been mentioned in the Ramayana. The Church has seen destruction during the Sri Lankan Civil War but still stands today, a witness to history.


The massive Baobab Tree here which is locally known as the ‘elephant tree’ was planted by Arabs about 700 years back and has a 20 metres wide trunk.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by saajid luenzo on Unsplash

06.

Beruwala

For those who are looking for some self-pampering, head to Beruwala, a quiet town in the Western Province, famous for its ‘Golden Mile’ beach, Yoga retreats and Ayurvedic Spa centres. 


Beruwala was the first Muslim (Moor) colony and houses Sri Lanka’s oldest mosque. Established by the British in the early nineties, the Beruwala Lighthouse is 34 metres tall with 150 steps to get to the top. It is a 10-minute boat ride away from the main town and gives you a magnificent aerial view of the surroundings.


The gem trading area of Beruwala is China Fort. The Moors of the region have engaged in coloured precious stone trading for many decades. So, while you are here, you can indulge in sight-seeing, water sports and shopping.

If you prefer places that are more ‘hot and happening’ in terms of tourist footfall, don’t forget to check out these 8 popular places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Salitha Indrajith

  • 6 Offbeat places to see in Sri Lanka
  • 6 Offbeat Places in Sri Lanka

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