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Hallasan

Adventures No Limits — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 18:45:28 +0000

09.02.2024

HALASAN VOLCANO

Hallasan is the highest point in South Korea, on Jeju Island. It is a de facto volcano, which was last active around the year 1000 AD. The volcano rises 1947–1950 meters above sea level (data depending on the source), and there is a lake inside the crater. The place is particularly charming in spring, when the local flowers and trees bloom, and in autumn, when the leaves of the trees begin to turn various colors of orange, red, and brown.

DESCRIPTION

Hallasan Volcano is also known as Yeongjusan, which means “Mountain high enough to involve the galaxy” or “Mountain high enough to involve the universe.”. At the summit is the Baengnokdam crater, 108 meters deep and 550 meters wide. The top of the mountain consists of 360-370 (data depending on the source) volcanic cones, which gives it originality among other mountains in the country. The crater was formed after the last eruption, when the top of the ridge collapsed. In addition, on the mountain itself inside the crater is Lake Baengnokdam or otherwise known as White Deer Lake. It obtains its name in honor of this mystical animal, which, according to legends, once visited this place to drink water. The animal came from the sky, and a Taoist hermit arrived at it to visit the place and drink a few sips of the refreshing water. According to beliefs, the gods living in the mountains came here to ride and play with this creature.

Hallasan is located in the central part of the island, and that it is the highest point on the island and in South Korea the views span the entire island, in every direction. Steep cliffs, rocks with unusual shapes and slopes covered with lush vegetation make a visit to Hallasan especially recommended for nature lovers and people who enjoy relaxation and physical activity outdoors. The local ecosystem consists of about 2,000 plant species, 73 of which are native, many endangered and rare. There were even legends about Korean wizards who became immortal after consuming the endemic Hallasan plant. Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of unified China (221-210 BC), even sent his trusted men in this area to find the sacred plant in order that he too could live forever.

The mountain area, is home to some 4,000 species of animals, including 160 species of birds and 3,315 species of insects. The largest mountain animal here is the roe deer, a symbol of Hallasan, which has recovered in recent years after that how the species was on the verge of extinction. The park has 42 kilometers of lava caves/tunnels on its territory. The most popular of these is the Manjanggul cave. There are 7 hiking trails in the reserve, and they are: Gwaneumsa, Seongpanak, Eorimok, Yeongsil, Donnaeko, Eoseungsangak and Seokguram.

The Hallasan Mountain Reserve was “converted” to a Natural Monument on October 12, 1966. On March 24, 1970, it was recognized as a National Park, and was inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Biosphere Reserves in December 2002. In 2007, meanwhile, this location became a World Heritage Site.

The formation of Mount Hallasan on the lava plateau dates to the Pliocene era, more than 2.5 million years ago. The volcano was formed as a result of the eruption of basaltic lava and trachyte. Research conducted in 2017 to determine the age of the crater rock using optically stimulated luminescence showed that the current shape of the mountain was formed between 37,000 and 20,000 years ago.

IS HALLASAN AN ACTIVE VOLCANO?

Scientists do not always agree on the definition of an active volcano. If one accepts the assumption of the Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program, which defines activity over a time horizon of 10,000 years, it can be concluded that Hallasan is not a dormant neither extinct volcano. A recent study in 2014 showed by radiocarbon dating of the charcoal beneath the basalt layer to be 5,000 years old. This means that Hallasan volcano was still active after the last ice age, so it should be considered as active.

In addition, there are historical records from the Joseon Dynasty, recording events from the 11th century, and this is: “In June 1002 A.D. (or 1007 A.D. data depending on the source) a mountain grew up in the middle of the sea. At the top of the mountain were four gigantic holes from which a red liquid flowed, and for five days thick smoke was lifting. All the red liquid hardened and became stone like tiles.” However, there is no substantive evidence of the volcano’s activity during this period.

TRAILS

There are seven different hiking trails on Hallasan Volcano, but only Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa lead to the summit, where the crater lake is located. In this article, we will focus on these two hiking trails.

1 Gwaneumsa Trail 관음사 탐방로.

The Gwaneums Trail is one of the most scenic trails, but also the most difficult. There are several steep climbs. Its length is about 8.5 kilometers, and a one-way trip takes about 5 hours. You should set out on this route no later than 10 a.m. and arrive at the highest “checkpoint”, the hut, at 1 p.m. in summer or 12 p.m. in winter. There is a campsite at the entrance to the trail. Caution: passage along the Gwaneums trail requires early reservations.

The trail is divided into 4 sections.

Section 1 – just under 3 km of the trail will be relatively flat and will lead through thick forest. Much of this trail is covered with trees, so it is one of the most shaded sections on the entire route.

Section 2 – is the longest section of the trail. There are quite a few ramps and stairs. On this part of the trail are Tamnagyegok toilets, Gaemideung and Samgakbong mountain hut. It takes about 3 – 3.5 hours to reach it. There are also several benches and toilets.

Section 3 – a longer section of the trail follows well-maintained wooden “sidewalks/paths.” Here there are practically no more trees, so from this point on we are exposed to the sun all the time.

Section 4 – the most difficult part, there are the most steep climbs and stairs to climb.

To get to where the trail begins, take intercity bus No. 281 or 212 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal to Seogwipo and get off at Jeju University (about a 25-minute drive). Then take Intercity Bus No. 475 and get off at Gwaneumsa Campground (about a 15-minute drive). Every day, a course approximately 14 passage buses of the No. 475, and the gaps between services are between 1 hour and 1.5 hours. You can also rent a cab from the bus station. The cost is about 17,000 won (less than $13 at the January 2024 exchange rate).

2 Seongpanak Trail 성판악 탐방로.

The Seongpanak Trail is the longest trail, measuring about 9.5 kilometers, but it is not as technically difficult as Gwaneumsa. The hike takes about 4 hours one way. On the way, you can walk up to the Sara Oreum mountain, where there is a small lake. Caution: passage along the Seongpanak trail requires early reservations.

To get to the place from where the trail leads, you must go to the Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal, take bus No. 281 or 181, which runs to Seogwipo, and get off at the bus stop (about a 45-minute drive).

Other routes are:

Eorimoka Trail (어리목 탐방로) with a length of about 6.8 kilometers, and the passage takes about 3 hours one way.
Yeongsil Trail (영실 탐방로) is about 5.8 kilometers in length and takes about 3.5 hours one way. Recommended route for beginner hikers.
Donnaeko Trail (돈내코 탐방로) measuring about 9 kilometers, and takes about 4 hours, one way.

Eoseungsaengak Trail (어승생악 탐방로) is ideal for walks and short trips out of town with children. The length is less than 1.5 kilometers, and the time it takes to walk it one way is less than an hour.
Seokgulam Trail (석굴암 탐방로) just like the Eoseungsaengak Trail, is ideal for hiking with small children. The length is a little over than 1.5 kilometers, the time required to walk is one hour (one way).

Online booking at the summit via the Gwaneumsa and Seongpanak trails you can find here.

For those who need help making reservations: Jeju Tourist Information Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

https://www.visitjeju.net/en

Before set forth on a trek, it is important to remember that there are boundary hours in the mountains. On the Seongpanak route, the boundary hour is at the Jindallaebat Field Control Center (also known as Azalea), and on the Gwaneumsa route, it is at the Samgakbong Peak control station. This means that if you do not arrive at either of these stations before the fixed time, you will be asked to return to the parking lot. In addition, you will be asked to leave the summit at a defined the time in order that everyone leaves the mountain before nightfall. Seasonally, the trails are open from 5:00 – 6:00 a.m., and you should arrive at the stations between 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. The summit closes between 1:30 and 2:30 p.m.

RESERVATION SYSTEM

There are 1,000 pasteboard available per day on the Seongpanak trek, while 500 are available in Gwaneumsa.

To make a reservation, you have to wait until the month before the date of the trek. Example: reservations for the entire month of June will “open” on May 1. When it is June 1, you will be able to make reservations for July. If you plan to go out on Saturday or Sundays, it is advisable to make reservations over a dozen days early because then are the most eager hikers on the trails to reach the summit. Although reservations are required, no need to pay any fees. This system is mainly aims at preventing “overcrowding” on the trails and limiting the number of tourists on the summit. This rule came into live in 2020 (before that there was no reservation system). To make a reservation, click this link or call 064-713-9953. After making a reservation, a QR code will be sent to your cell phone, thanks to this, we can go through the gates located at the beginning of the trail.

Comment: reservations can be made maximum for 4 people.

HOW TO GET TO HALLASAN?

There are 3 ways to get to the Hallasan Mountain area.

Rental car

You can use the website rentalcars.com and choose the car which will be best for us. However, if we would like to explore other parts of the island, a good option would be to rent a car with a larger trunk like a station wagon, minivan, or SUV.

Trail coordinates: Seongpanak (GPS: 33°23’05.5″N 126°37’12.1″E), Gwaneumsa (GPS: 33°25’19.5″N 126°32’59.2″E).

Important information about renting a car:

To rent a car in South Korea, we will need an international driver’s license.

Google Maps does not work in South Korea. It is worth downloading the Naver Map app to get directions and maps of the country.

The second option is to take a public transportation bus, which stops at parking lots which are located at the beginning of routes.

For this purpose, it is worth looking at sites such as, http://bus.jeju.go.kr and https://www.visitjeju.net/en/tourInfo/traffic?tap=three&menuId=DOM_000001821013003000 where we can check the routes of bus lines, rent a bus or find a stop which interests us.

3 Taxi

The last option to consider is taking a cab from the airport or bus station, for example. The cost of a ride from the airport to the Gwaneumsa parking zone is about ₩ 30,000. On the other hand, from the city of Seogwipo, a cab will cost about 60,000 ₩.

Keep in mind that if you rent a car and plan to walk to Hallasan volcano via the Gwaneumsa trail, for example, and walk down Seongpanak, then you will have to get back to the parking lot beside the Gwaneums trail. This can be done in several ways:

Cab

There is often some sort of cab stand in parking lots, but not always. After walking down with the trail, we can ask the driver to drive us to the parking lot where we left the car. Between one parking lot and the other (Gwaneumsa – Seongpanak) the route takes less than 15 minutes and the cost of such a service is about ₩ 15,000.

Bus

To travel between Gwaneumsa and Seongpanak (in that order!), you can first take a bus toward Jeju University. There, change to bus (number 475) to get to one of the two initial routes.

TIPS FOR TAKING PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AND CABS

The best way to find the nearest bus stop is to use the Kakao Maps app (iOS/Android) or Naver Maps (iOS/Android).

If we want to use public transportation, we can consider buying a T-money card for about ₩ 4,000 at any grocery store and recharge it in amount, for example, 20,000 won. We can use it while riding the bus or train. Details about the card and how to use it can be found here.

Uber’s Korean equivalent is the Kakao T app (iOS/Android), which is worth downloading and setting up before your trip if you plan to travel by cab. It is also available in English.

OPENING HOURS AND FEES

Before climbing the mountain, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the opening schedule of Hallasan National Park. Keep in mind that overnight stays are not allowed in the volcano area. The trails in Hallasan Reserve open at 5:00 am from May to August and at 6:00 am from September to April. To ensure that everyone has enough time to return before dark, hiking times are limited and vary depending on the season. The rangers will prevent hikers from climbing higher if they do not reach the highest shelters/points at certain times (usually at 1:00 pm or 12:00 pm in winter).

Hallasan Mountain is open year-round and can be climbed at any time (the most recommended time of year to visit this place is spring or autumn, however) it may happen that the trails may be closed due to bad weather or “repairs”.

Parking fees (2023 prices):

Two-wheeled vehicles (scooters, motorcycles): 500 ₩

Automobiles (capacity less than 1,000 cc): 1000 ₩

Vehicle weighing less than 4 tons: 1800 ₩

Small bus (11-15 seats): 3000 ₩

Bus with more than 16 seats / vehicle weight over 4 tons: 3700 ₩

CLOSING HOURS

“Closing/boundary” hours are the time of day at which guards do not continue to let tourists who want to go to the summit pass. This is to eliminate the situation of casual hikers staying overnight on the top of the volcano.

– The summit of Hallasan is closed at 1:30 p.m. in winter, 2 p.m. in spring/autumn and 2:30 p.m. in summer.

– Witse Oreum Shelter closes at 3:00 pm in winter, 4:00 pm in spring/autumn and 5:00 pm in summer months.

– Samgakbong Shelter closes at 12:30 pm in spring, at 1 pm in summer and at 12 pm in winter.

– Nambyeok or South Cliff turnaround points close at 2:00 pm in winter, 2:30 pm in spring/autumn and 3:00 pm in summer.

Closing times can change. This may be dictated by difficult and adverse weather.

ACCOMODATION

Recommended accommodations on Jeju Island is including:

Yeha Guesthouse – guesthouse offers free breakfast and laundry, near the bus station.

Thira Hotel – a hotel with spacious rooms and a restaurant in Seogwipo town.

Gwaneumsa Campsite – a campground at the beginning of the Gwaneumsa trail, which leads to the top of Hallasan Mountain. There are toilets and washrooms. The campground does not have a website, so reservations can only be made by phone +82-064-756-9950.

Jeju R Guesthouse – is a small modern hotel with breakfast included in the price, a 5-minute walk from the main bus station.

Hotel Nanta Jeju – is a four-star hotel, located near Hallasan and across the street from the Planetarium. The guesthouse has its theater with live performances, multiple gastronomic local and fitness equipment.

Amber Resort Jeju – a complex of large houses/villas where you can rent rooms with bathrooms overlooking Hallasan Volcano.

Grand Hyatt Jeju – is a luxury five-star hotel in downtown Jeju with a swimming pool.

Ganderak Guesthouse – offers mainly, 4-bed rooms along with free breakfast.

Jeju Oriental Hotel and Casino – a reasonably priced hotel with sea views.

Donnaeko Guesthouse in Seogwipo – offers luxurious double rooms with fully equipped private kitchens and bathrooms, as well as a shared outdoor pool and garden.

Qube Resort Jeju – offers spacious suites with sea and Hallasan Mountain views.

Velum Resort – a guesthouse has rooms with a balcony overlooking the mountains.

Bridge Residence Hotel – a budget hotel in Seogwipo where rooms are equipped with a cooking stock and a laundry room.

Other recommended hotel is Jeju Best Hill.

MYTHS AND LEGENDS

And how was the volcano formed? What do the myths read? Well, the giant woman Seolmundae Halmang created Hallasan Mountain with seven shovel throws. One day the woman, a mother of 500 sons, while cooking soup for them, fell into the caldron and died. The sons ate the soup, and when they found their mother’s bones inside, they cried until they turned to stone. A large cluster of unusual rock pillars can be seen from the Yeongsil trail, and every spring, legend explains, their blood is reborn in the form of field flowers.

It is also believed that a plant grows in the Hallasan area that provides immortality. China’s Emperor Qin Shi Huang himself sent his men to find it, but they failed. The emperor died in 210 BC.

When the first Western visitors began arriving at Jeju Island in the late 19th century with hopes of reaching Hallasan, locals informed them that no one had ever been to the summit before. Jeju’s governor, Yi Chi-ho, in 1901 rejected German journalist Siegfried Genthe’s request for permission to climb the volcano with these words: “The mountain spirits would certainly plague the island with bad weather, storms, poor harvests and pestilence if someone approached them and disturbed their rest. A bad harvest would cause people to blame you, the foreigner, and no question they would do you harm.”. Unfortunately, there is no reliable information on the Internet about who managed to climb Hallasan Peak for the first time and when. You can try to ask the staff at the ascent (guards/refuge/service) for such information. 😊

For many Koreans, Hallasan volcano has spiritual significance. As one of South Korea’s three spiritual mountains (the others being Jirisan and Seoraksan), Hallasan is considered sacred. Koreans believe that gods and spirits live in the mountain, so they worship it, and some also pray there. Hallasan volcano is also home to Gwaneumsa, the oldest Buddhist temple on the island, dating back to the 11th century. However, it was destroyed in 1702, during the Joseon Dynasty, when Confucianism was established as the national religion, but was rebuilt in the early 20th century.

TIPS AND ADVICE

When climbing Mt. Hallasan in winter, worth taking with you crampons, as the trails can be icy.

It is a good idea to take with you: rain jacket or down jacket (in winter), sweatshirt, hat, pants with unzip legs (in summer), sunglasses, sunscreen, insect spray, trekking shoes, bandages, first aid kit, 2–4 liters of water (depending on which trail you choose and what season you will be climbing, you will be more thirsty in summer) and food.

To check if the Gwaneumsa trail is open, you can visit this website or call the travel hotline at 1330.

Jeju is a fairly windy island. Let’s keep this in mind when packing up and going to this place.

The volcano area occurs frequent rainfall in the summer.

It is also wise to take trekking poles with you.

T-shirt and underwear should be thermoactive.

USEFUL LINKS

Here you can find a plane course with Seul Airport to Jeju Island:

https://www.skyscanner.net/routes/sela/cju/seoul-to-jeju.html

https://www.jejuair.net/en/main/base/index.do

Here you can find ferry with South Korea to Jeju Island:

https://www.travelguide.de/en/ports/jeju/

https://www.directferries.com/

Map:

https://peakery.com/hallasan-south-korea/map/

TIDBITS

The top of Hallasan Peak is inaccessible to tourists due to erosion. Visitors this place can near 10 meters below the actual summit.

People who have booked an ascent of Halssan Volcano via the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails, and do not come, will get a penalty. The first time such a person will not be allowed to re-book for three months, and the second time, a year must pass before such a delinquent can book again.

South Korea is covered with 70% mountains and highlands. The country has 7715 mountains which have a name. Most of them do not exceed 1,000 meters in height.

If you want to get a certificate for climbing a mountain, you must show a photo which is taken at the summit on the same day. The certificate can be purchased for 1,000 won (about $1, cash only, price in 2023) at the Information Center at the beginning of the Seongpanak or Gwaneumsa trail.

SUMMARY

Coming to Jeju Island in South Korea and being a nature lover, you should visit this place. There is a trail for everyone. People with the less experienced will choose the Eoseungsaengak or Seokgulam trails, while those who want to go to the summit and are not afraid of fatigue will choose Gwaneumsa and Seongpanak. Independently of the season, the views of the island from here are unforgettable. However, let’s remember about good preparation, and to set out as early in the morning as possible to reach the top in peace and savor the local panoramas.

Author Jonas K., source flickr.

Author Nfarag2019, source wikimedia.org.

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THE YUANYANG RICE TERRACES

Artykuł Hallasan pochodzi z serwisu Adventures No Limits.

The Yuanyang Rice Terraces

Adventures No Limits — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 20:17:23 +0000

04.12.2023

THE YUANYANG RICE TERRACES

The Yuanyang Rice Terraces are amazing formations formed on the slopes of the local mountains that were created by man more than 1,000 years ago. They are located in the southern part of China, near the border with Vietnam and Laos. Thanks to its far location from airports or major cities, some tourists visit the place. This gives visitors the opportunity to experience the local tranquility and immerse themselves in centuries-old culture.

DESCRIPTION

The Yuanyang Terraces are undoubtedly the most beautiful and spectacular sights that you can see during your trip to China. They are located in the southern part of Yunnan province, in the Ailao mountain range. It is the largest complex of its kind in the world, with an area of about 113 square kilometers, and the sunrises and sunsets here are truly magical. The area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 and stretches from 144 to over 2,000 meters above sea level. The zone consists of more than 3,000 terraces. The rice fields are located around the old town of Yuanyang, and were carved into the mountains by the Hani minority, who have lived in the area since about eight hundred years ago and are the most numerous of the local ethnic groups. The others are Yi, Dai, Miao, Yao, Zhuang and Han.

Thanks to the fact that the place is far from big cities and the interchange of many cultures, it is possible to preserve primeval practices and rituals in the area. One of the local festivals is the Long Street Banquet, also known as the Long Table Banquet (长街宴). It is a culinary tradition prevalent among the Hani, Miao, Dong and Yi peoples. Long Street Banquet is usually held during festivals or other occasions such as wedding ceremonies, birthday parties, or the birth of a child, during which hundreds of tables are set up with food by each household on the local streets. Locals are dressed in their iconic colorful clothes and still work in the fields, using Indian buffaloes instead of modern agricultural machinery to grow rice. Terraces were created on the slopes of the mountains, with gradients ranging from 15 to 75 degrees. The Hani people often begin planting rice seedlings in May, and harvest time is usually in September and October. From late November to April, the entire fields are irrigated with water from the forests that are above them.

Yuanyang rice terraces are very well designed for irrigation of the fields here. They were created so that each “plot” holds the appropriate amount/level of water. When there is too much, the water overflows into the lower plots/layers of the terraced fields. This keeps the water level the same all the time and this keeps the water level the same all the time such to harvest time. This system provides enough water for each terrace plot. In addition, the moderate climate of Mount Ailao provides appropriate rainfall for watering terraces. The region is characterized by different colors that depend on the season. In February, the fields full of water reflect the sky so that there is a mirror effect; in April, the terraces become green as the rice begins to grow; and in the last quarter of the year, they become yellowish-brown when the rice is ripe and ready to be cut.

Yuanyang’s rice fields include three main view places: the Bada, Laohuzui and Duoyishu rice terraces. The expansive terraces create a magical and magnificent landscape. The sky here is often covered with clouds, thus creating an additional majestic effect. In winter, there are sometimes very dense fogs where visibility drops even to 5 meters. The ticket price is 100 CNY (about 14 USD) per person and includes admission to the Yuanyang, Duoyishu, Bada, and Luohuzui rice terraces.

Duoyishu Scenic Area is surrounded by mountains on three sides and is located in the eastern part of Yuanyang County, about 57 kilometers from the county home and 28 kilometers from Xinjiezhen. Therethroug, the whole area resembles a bay. It is the most beautiful natural landscape of the Yuanyang terraces and is also the best place to photograph sunrises, as the morning highlights show the magnificent dynamic landscape. It is worth noting the changing colors of the water during the sunrise. Because the reflections and shadows are constantly changing, the effect is truly unique. On the slopes of the mountains are scattered numerous villages and houses that resemble the shape of mushrooms. The roof of the house is made of withered rice stalks. In total, Duoyishu has an area of 600–700 hectares (data depending on the source). The upper half of the terraced field is located on a slight slope that can be seen from a distance. In contrast, the lower half of the field is located in a deep valley.

Bada Scenic Area (or Bada Terraced Field) is located 45 km south of Yuanyang County and 17 km from Xinjiezhen. It has an area of about 950 hectares. From the foot to the top of the mountain, the number of terraced fields counts 3900 steps. Bada at sunset is truly amazing, and the constantly changing colors will make you feel like you are in a faerie.

The third area is Laohuzui, which is the most “intense” and stark in terms of terrain. The lowest part of the terraces is the most attractive, and their contour resembles a galloping horse. These terraces are located 20 kilometers from the old county town of Xinjie, and their area is about 850 hectares.

HISTORY OF THE PLACE

The ancestors of the Hani people arrived in the area between 500 and 300 BC. They probably came from the Tibetan Plateau, where conditions were not very favorable for living and farming. During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), emperors gave them the title “Sculptors of the Magic Mountains.” Hani farmers began carving terraces in the mountains during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) and initially built ditches and canals to drain spring water from the mountains and forests. Since then, the terraces have been continually tended, and the knowledge of Yuanyang rice cultivation has been passed down from generation to generation. Some call them the “stairway to heaven.” Only until the 14th century did the technology of cultivating land on rugged mountain slopes in the form of terraces spread throughout China and Southeast Asia.

Yuanyang terraces have been made by trial and error for more than a thousand years. Rainfall and moisture from the dense mountain fog are collected in forested areas high on the slopes. The spring water is then discharged to irrigate the terraces, and then the collected water evaporates, forms clouds, and gathers over the rice fields, from which it rains. The hydrological cycle then repeats itself continuously and moderately cyclically. This strategy provides lasting benefits not only in rice cultivation but also in other aspects. From lumber, vegetable, and fruit production to breeding ducks, fish (because the fields are also used as ponds except during the rice-growing season), and harvesting herbs used in traditional medicines. The terraces are basically a year-round pantry for Hani, and on their terrain are about 80 villages. Each of them has a person responsible for looking after your side and making sure the water is evenly distributed on the fields. Yuanyang fields are a great example of how man can live in symbiosis with nature without exposing it to destruction.

The terraces cannot be “mechanized” (no tractors or other machinery can be used) due to their shape and location. Often they are filled with water up to their knees, which is why the Hani people still use buffaloes and do the work manually. They use the same pickaxes, hoes, and other tools that were used hundreds of years ago.

For many centuries, the place was hidden from the rest of the world. The first mention of the local rice fields came in the 1890s, when Prince Henry of Orleans led a French expedition from Vietnam to Yunnan, searching for the source of the Irrawaddy River, which cuts Burma in half. “The local slopes two-thirds of the way up were covered with rice fields, rising into regular terraces, along which the water flowed in a series of cascades, glittering like glass in the sun,” Henry wrote.

American Harry Alverson Franck (one of the travel writers in the 1920s, 20th century) was another person who managed to get to Yunnan from Vietnam and described the rice terraces in his book “Roving Through Southern China” like this: “There are terraces everywhere, steeper than stairs, long but as narrow as they are high, and the surrounding mountains are reflected in the new rice fields.”

Unfortunately, then, starting in the 1930s, along with China’s long war with Japan and the subsequent civil war and revolution, as well as the closure of the newly communist country behind the so-called “bamboo curtain,” the mountainous region became inaccessible to foreigners. It was “reopened” in the 1980s. No one notes much attention to it until 2000, when new asphalt roads appeared and local authorities were determined to get the terraces on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This was finally achieved in 2013.

WHERE ARE YUANYANG RICE TERRACES

The rice fields are located about 320 kilometers south of Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province. Typically, tourists rent a private car or buy a bus ticket from Kunming to get there. Given that the trip by car is relatively long, as it takes about six hours, visitors often stop in Jianshui Old Town, which is about halfway to Yuanyang. The region is bordered by Jinping County to the east, Lvchun to the south, Honghe to the west, and Jianshui to the north, where the cities of Gejiu and Mengzi lie across the Honghe River. The rice terraces are located on the south side of the Red River (Red River)/Hong River (Hong River) bank (traditional Chinese: 紅河, simplified Chinese: 红河).

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The most recommended time to visit the rice fields in Yuanyang is between January and April. This is when most of the rice terraces are already filled with water (this is done from November to April), and during this time, a so-called mirror effect is created, where clouds in the calm sheets of water are reflected on the surface. This creates amazing scenery for photography. In addition, from late February to late March, the area is decorated with an abundance of pink peach and cherry blossoms and white pear blossoms.

Yuanyang has a mild climate without much variation in temperature between seasons. Most of the precipitation falls between May and October. The temperature varies noticeably between day and night, so it is best to bring a warm jacket with you when you want to photograph the sunrise.

OPENING HOURS AND ENTRANCE TICKETS

An entrance ticket costs 100 CNY (about 14 USD) for single entry to each place (specific rice terraces listed below) within one day;

A seven-day ticket costs 180 CNY (about 25 USD), unlimited entry to each place in a span of seven days.

Attention:

The ticket includes the scenic areas of Duoyishu, Bada, Laohuzui and Qingkou Folk Village.
Half-price ticket for children 1.2 to 1.4 m (3.9 to 4.6 ft) tall. Free for children under 1.2 m (3.9–4.6 ft).

Opening hours: Most facilities are open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. If possible, it’s a good idea to inquire at the ticket office or any of the local hotels about current opening hours.

TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Duoyishu Scenic Area is the best place to take sunrise photos. It is located 80 minutes drive from Yuanyang City. It is recommended to get to Duoyishu while it is still dark. When the sunlight appears on the horizon, the terraces have a soft yellowish-orange color. That’s when people from the villages wake up and come out to the ridgeline of the terraces, which gives you yet more occasion to make photos. Dark people figured in the background of golden water, in which the clouds are simultaneously reflected.

The Bada viewing area is the best place to take sunset photos. The terraces stretch from the base to the tops of the hills, resembling a stairway to heaven. This is the largest area where the rice fields are located. When the sun sets, the terraces constantly change colors: first they are pink, then purple, and then dark red.

Another recommended area where you can capture a beautiful sunset is Laohuzui. On the eastern side is a crescent-shaped terraced field. However, in the upper-left corner of the farthest point, the terraces are arranged so that they resemble a galloping horse.

Tips:

It is best to spend at least two or three days in Yuanyang to have enough time for photography. Before sunrise or sunset, it’s a good idea to arrive about two hours early to get a good place to take pictures.
Take a wide angle lens.
The sky is often overcast here, so you can additionally capture interesting cloud formations or a “blur” effect when you set a longer exposure time. This gives photographers additional opportunities.
It is worth remembering that, on average, 180–190 days a year, terraces, especially in the morning, are shrouded in fog. This effect can be used when taking pictures.

RECOMMENDED TRAILS

A trip to the Yuanyang terraces usually starts with an exit from Kunming city. It’s a good idea to reserve 2–4 days to explore the rice fields. Considering the relatively long and difficult journey by car or bus along the mountain road to Yuanyang, the first night and day are good for recuperation after reaching this place. On the morning of the second day, you can go to Duoyishu for sunrise and then to Bada for sunset. Along the way, it’s worth stopping at some charming local villages.

Recommended trekking trails:

Route 1 – Trekking near the Blue Rice Terraces and Azheke village.

Distance: about 10 km

Time required: 4–5 hours

Route details: Duoyishu – Pugaolaozhai Folk Village – Aichun Rice Terraces – Azheke Minority Village.

Route 2 – Trekking with a chance to see the weekly market in Shengcun village.

Distance: about 17 km

Time required: 8–10 hours

Route Details: Shengcun Village (胜村) – Malizhai Village (麻栗寨) – Laoyingzui (老鹰嘴).

NEARBY TOWNS

While visiting the terraces in Yuanyang County, by the way, it is worth stopping in one of the nearby towns:

Qingkou (青口) is 9 kilometers from Xinjiezhen City. The village is located on a hill, and you can see rice fields from practically anywhere. There are over 800 residents with Hani people. Qingkou is surrounded by dense forests where many species of birds live. Here visitors can look at mushroom-shaped houses, a water roller for grinding grain, or a watermill. In addition, on the terrain of the village, you can visit two springs with the names “White Dragon” and “Longevity”.

Shengcuncun (胜村) village is about 20 kilometers from Xinjiezhen city. Half of the road from Shengcuncun to Xinjiezhen is unpaved. There are several places of interest near the highway, such as the Blue Dragon Tea House and tea-planting hills. Shengcuncun village is a good place to see the Yuanyang terraces and is an interesting option to search for interesting frames for photos.

Habo Village (哈播) is located 90 kilometers from Xinjiezhen. It is a good place to take pictures of the sunrise, but not many photographers come there. As a result, you can have more freedom in this place when taking photos.

Countrified Fair: Yuanyang is an area mainly inhabited by representatives of national minorities, such as Hani, Yi, Dai and Miao. Therefore, in addition to terraces, photography lovers can photograph the folk customs of the local people here. A good place to visit may be the countrified fairs organized in large villages such as Shengcuncun, Niujiaozhaixiang, Majiexiang and Panzhihua.

HOW TO GET TO YUANYANG

From Kunming to Jianshui

Between the Kunming Railway Station (昆明站) and Jianshui Railway Station (建水站). A trip by high-speed train takes about 2.5 hours. Whereas, a trip by car or bus will take about 3 hours.

You can find the real-time high-speed train schedule from Kunming to Jianshui here.

Jianshui to Xinjiezhen

The best way to get to Xinjiezhen from Jianshui is by car, as there is currently no train station or airport. The distance between Jianshui and the Yuanyang Rice Terraces is 124 kilometers, which takes about 2.5 hours to drive. Another option might be to take a bus from Jianshui Bus Station (建水汽车客运站) to Yuanyang (specifically to Xinjiezhen) between 07:15 and 18:40, and the trip takes about 3 hours. However, keep in mind that these coaches do not take tourists directly to the scenic terraces. The last stop is in Xinjie Town (Xinjiezhen), from where you need to get to the rice fields. From Xinjiezhen Town, take a local minibus to the Yuanyang terraces, which are 10–25 kilometers from the city (depending on where we want to get off).

From Kunming, there are two options to get to Xinjiezhen:

By bus

Buses run from Kunming’s southern bus station to Xinjiezhen city. Buses depart at approximately 10:20 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. The trip takes 6 to 7 hours and costs 130 to 150 CNY (about $20 USD) per person. Communication in English is not possible because the bus drivers are mostly residents who do not speak English.

By private vehicle

A tour of the Yuanyang rice terraces usually includes a visit to other popular destinations, such as Stone Forest for its intricate karst landscapes and the ancient city of Jianshui for its unique folk houses. In addition, there are no buses running between the villages. Therefore, once you arrive, you can rent a car to get to the main entrance and travel between the rice fields. The cost is about 300 CNY (about 40 USD) per day. It is worth bearing in mind that the road to Yuanyang is steep and winding. You can rent a car here.

Remember that you must have a Chinese driver’s license to drive in China!

ACCOMMODATIONS

Although Yuanyang is a rural area, its popularity among visitors has meant that there are a couple of good-quality boutique hotels in the area. On the other hand, if someone prefers more “luxurious” conditions, then can always choose a hotel in Xinjie Town, where there are many stores and restaurants.

Recommended hotels in Xinjie Town and around:

Yuanyang Yunti Hotel (3-star hotel)

Yuanyang Rose Winery Holiday Hotel (4-star hotel)

Recommended hotels in rural areas closer to the terraces:

Yuanyang Yuanshe Azheke Hotel (4-star local house)

The Twelve Manor – Terraces Lodge (3-star suite).

Oness Resort Yuanyang Terrace (4-star suite)

Cloudreams Yuanyang Hotel and Resorts – 4-star hotel with a bar and restaurant. Very close to the main road and other stores nearby. Located close to the terraces.

Other recommended resorts are Jacky’s Guest House and Flower Residence.

ATTRACTIONS NEAR THE RICE TERRACES

If you plan a longer stay in this part of China and the Yuanyang fields, it is also worth visiting such places as:

Jianshui city is inhabited by the Hani people, who live in distinctive mushroom-like houses and still dress in folk costumes.

Mengzi County is well known of 100-year-old railroad tracks, stations, French-style houses, and Yunnan rice noodles.

The so-called Stone Forest is the only place in the world where tower karst formations occur in the subtropical zone. The stone formations look like animals, mushrooms, trees, and other plants. Some of them also form natural bridges and arches. The rock blocks reach heights of up to 50 meters.

TIPS AND USEFUL INFORMATION

Most of the scenic spots on the terraces are 8–10 km apart, and you can travel between villages by minivan for 5–15 CNY (about 1–2.5 USD). The minivans are operated by locals who speak very little English and sometimes even Mandarin. Also, it’s a good idea to have a photo on your phone saved/downloaded from the Internet to show the driver the place we want to visit. You can find tour with English-speaking guides here.

It is a good idea to have travel-sickness pills with you in case you feel unwell during a long drive on mountain roads.

It’s worth sticking to the main road in order that doesn’t get lost, as there are numerous country roads in the rice fields.

Yuanyang is located on the Tropic of Cancer, so the climate is moderate. However, it is cooler in the morning and evening, and the sun shines strongly at noon, provided the sky is cloudless. It’s worth remembering about sun protection in the form of a hat, cap, or sunscreen. Short-sleeved shirts and shorts can be worn all year, but it is advisable to take a jacket or sweatshirt with you.

TIDBITS

The Laohuzui Rice Terraces were formerly the main place for tourists to come to the fields in Yuanyang. However, most of the area was destroyed by the downpour in 2018, which carried mud and rocks to the local land.

When going not only to Yuanyang but to China in general, it’s worth checking the calendar on the Internet before you go to see which days fall on holidays or other celebrations. Then we will know which holiday we can participate in by flying to China.

SUMMARY

The Yuanyang Rice Terraces are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to see in China, or at least in its southern part. Thanks to the fact that the whole area of the rice fields is a few hundred kilometers away from the big metropolises, you can feel a bit like the past here. The lack of communication in the towns here and the wild terrain around them make coming here a good way to take a break from the city rush and fuss. Each season here offers different landscapes and experiences, which photographers are sure to appreciate. In addition, there have been indigenous people living here for hundreds of years who still dress in folk costumes and celebrate their traditions and culture. Coming here, we are sure to experience some beautiful moments that we will be able to share with our family or friends when we return home.

Author Peter Chou Kee Liu source flickr.

Author inkelv1122, source flickr.

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CAT BA ISLAND

THAM LOD CAVE

YALA NATIONAL PARK

Artykuł The Yuanyang Rice Terraces pochodzi z serwisu Adventures No Limits.

Cat Ba Island

Adventures No Limits — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 16:27:48 +0000

31.10.2023

CAT BA ISLAND

Cat Ba Island, which belongs to Vietnam, is considered one of the most beautiful islands of this Asian country. Despite its small area, which is about 350 square kilometers, we can find here many wonderful and beautiful places, such as the Hospital Cave, Monkey Island and Cat Ba National Park. Certainly visiting this place, it is worth reserving at least a few days to visit the local attractions, which will provide us with amazing memories for many years.

DESCRIPTION

Cat Ba Island is the largest of the 367 islands that make up the Cat Ba archipelago and is located in the Gulf of Tonkin. It is located about 50 kilometers (32 miles) from the city of Hai Phong in northeastern Vietnam. Cat Ba is also by far the largest island in all of Ha Long Bay, which is a 2004 UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cat Ba, is also known as the “Pearl Island.” It is divided into six communes: Hien Hao, Phu Long, Xuan Dam, Tran Chau, Gia Luat and Viet Hai. It is inhabited by 13,000 people, of which 4,000 people live in floating “villages” off the islet’s coast. The Cat Ba area has a karst topography characterized by limestone mountains, stunning caves and white sandy beaches, contributing to the unique beauty of the island and which makes it unique. The island is known for its natural beauty, with high cliffs, lush forests and crystal clear waters. Most of it, along with the archipelago, is within the National Park, which was established in 1986. The reserve’s territorial scope includes subtropical evergreen forests on the hills, swamp forests at the base of the hills, coastal mangroves, small freshwater lakes and coral reefs. Cat Ba Island has three main beaches (Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2 and Cat Co 3) where visitors can sunbathe and enjoy swimming in the South China Sea. For those who prefer a physical activity, activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, and snorkeling are available. One of the recommended activities for visitors to the area is hiking up Ngu Lam Peak. Being on the island, you should also try the local seafood.

Due to its growing popularity among visitors, the island has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, with hotels and hostels available to potential tourists in Cat Ba and an efficient ferry terminal. There are also many tourist agencies selling boat cruises and other tours that are organized on the island. Regarding transport, visitors can rent motorcycles to explore the island and see as much as possible during their visit. The city is crowded for most of the year, but outside the city boundaries we can enjoy more peace and open spaces. The roads in the city are quite narrow, and it’s worth remembering, (especially when we will be traveling by car), but in good condition. Outside the city, on the other hand, there are many more potholed roads.

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ISLAND

Archaeological evidence suggests that people lived on Cat Ba more than 6,000 years ago, and the earliest settlements were found in the southeastern part of the island, near the area where Ben Beo port is now located. In 1938, a group of French archaeologists discovered human remains belonging to the Cai Beo people, who began to inhabit the island as early as 4,000 to 6,500 years ago (data dependent on source). In “recent history,” Cat Ba Island was inhabited mainly by Vietnamese-Chinese fishermen. Cat Ba was of strategic importance during the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War. During the bombings, local troops hid among the local caves. Since 1997, the town of Cat Ba has grown rapidly and has become the tourist center as well as the island and Ha Long Bay.

Cat Ba Island means “Island of Women” in Vietnamese. One local legend has it that many centuries ago, three women of the Tran dynasty were killed in a battle with fugitives from the sea. Their remains were found on the beach, and local people built three temples on the island to honor them. Later, a local fisherman named the island Cat Ba to thank these heroines.

FLORA AND FAUNA

Cat Ba Island can boast an extremely diverse ecosystem with a wide choice of unique flora and fauna. 1,561 plant species from 186 families have been identified here. In addition, the island is home to 279 animal species, 23 of which are classified as endangered or critically endangered. The fauna consists of 53 species of mammals, 160 birds, 66 amphibians and reptiles, and 274 species of insects. However, the aquatic environment, is home to 900 species of fish, 178 corals, 21 seaweeds, seven sea snakes and four species of sea turtles.

WEATHER ON THE ISLAND

The weather on Cat Ba Island is influenced by the tropical monsoon climate that dominates the region. The average annual temperature is about 23-26 degrees Celsius, and the hottest months are June, July, and August where the temperature reaches 25–33 degrees. This period is the best for water sports, diving, kayaking, or snorkeling. Milder weather and lower temperatures occur from October to November and February to May. In February, March, October and November, average temperatures are between 20-25 degrees Celsius. The coldest months are December and January, with average temperatures ranging from 15 degrees Celsius to 19 degrees Celsius.

August is the rainiest month, with rainfall exceeding 300 mm per square meter and with more than fifteen rainy days per month. There is also a lot of rainfall in June, July, and September where the average rainfall is 250 mm per square meter. March and April are characterized by wet and foggy times of day. Keep in mind that Cat Ba has four seasons, there is here still a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to September, and the dry season from November to March.

From May to September, visitors can expect cloudless skies and warm, sunny days. If you prefer cooler temperatures, you should come to Cat Ba between December and January, when temperatures average 15 to 19 degrees Celsius. It’s worth keeping this in mind, the fact that there may be occasional typhoons or tropical storms in July and August.

The island can be visited at any time of the year, but the most favorable weather for tourism is usually in summer and autumn, from April to November. This period coincides with the peak tourist season in Ha Long Bay, including Cat Ba Island. As a result, the beaches are crowded with tourists, so it’s worth arriving early to “dibs” on a good spot. Keep in mind, that during this period hotel prices often increase, so it is recommended to make a reservation in advance. Prices start to drop in September, when the number of tourists decreases.

WHAT’S WORTH SEEING

Cat Ba rock climbing

The limestone karsts in Cat Ba National Park are perfect for climbing. The mountains here are part of an ancient coral reef that stretches all the way to Guilin province in China and Krabi in southern Thailand, where you can see the same rock formations. For the active, companies such as Cat Ba Climbing offer half-day and full-day climbing trips.

Watching the coral reefs

The island is well-known for its beautiful, colorful coral reefs. These reefs are under strict protection, which helps stimulate the development of the local ecosystem and thus contributes to the development of tourism. In the town of Cat Ba, you will find many agents that organize tours to the local coral reefs.

Night squid fishing during cruises

Night squid fishing is a unique type of entertainment in Cat Ba. A short fishing trip costs about 500,000 VND (about 25 USD). It is an interesting experience, as we can learn fishing skills from experienced fishermen and spend an unforgettable nighttime at sea.

A visit to Cai Beo fishing village

Cai Beo fishing village is one of the largest ancient fishing villages in Ha Long Bay, dating back to about 6000–7000 years ago. Today, the village is home to about 450 families. Heading south, about 2 kilometers from Cat Ba Island, tourists can find hundreds of houses lined up close together, which resemble a miniature city. The area’s main sources of income are shellfishing and mussel and clam farming, and many tour companies offer night cruises that include squid fishing. Arriving here, tourists can admire the lovely scenery, enjoy fresh seafood and experience local life. It is also worth mentioning that there is much more calm here than in the city of Cat Ba.

Exploring Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park is located in Cat Hai district, about 30 kilometers south of the city center. The reserve was established in 1986 and covers an area of 263 square kilometers, of which 173 kilometers are land ecosystems (islands) and 90 kilometers are marine ecosystems. The national park is located in the heart of the Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and combines the characteristic beauty of the Ha Long Bay Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place is a sanctuary for various wildlife, including 32 species of mammals, most notably the critically endangered golden-headed langur otherwise known as the Cat Ba langur. The Cat Ba Reserve is a tourist attraction that brings millions of visitors from home and abroad. Arriving here, travelers can enjoy the beauty of the vast landscapes and seascapes. Visitors can relax on sequestered beaches in Lan Ha Bay, hike through the original tropical rainforest or mangrove forest, and immerse themselves in local culture. The park offers several hiking trails, such as a two-hour hike to the top of Ngu Lam and a day trip to Viet Hai village. In addition, visitors can take part in rock climbing at terrain in the park and snorkel in the local turquoise waters.

Cat Co beaches

Cat Co beaches with white sand (called Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2 and Cat Co 3) are a great place to relax. They are located about 1 km southeast of Cat Ba town. All three beaches, are separated from each other by small headlands. There is a small path along the coast that connects the beaches. From the path there are great views of the bay. Each of the beaches is, about a 15-minute walk from each other. It is worth bearing in mind that the beaches are usually crowded during the season. Another famous beach is Tung Thu, which is not far from the city center to the northwest. Of all the beaches, Cat Co 2 is the most beautiful, with soft white sand and blue water. Cat Co 1 and 3 were once as attractive, but now both beaches have been developed for local resorts, and it’s hard to find more peace and quiet here. Littering on these two beaches in the high of the season is unfortunately the norm here. From the city center, tourists can get to either beach by cab, motorcycle, or electric car for a fee of 10,000 VND per person (about $0.5 USD). If you forget to bring a swimsuit with you, you can rent one at the beach. In the experience of many locals here, it is advisable to return from the beach before 7 p.m., as this is the time when the seawater level begins to rise and the waves start to pick up.

Monkey Island (Cat Dua Island)

The island was formerly known as Cat Dua Island. Large quantities of wild pineapple can be found here, but the fruit is not suitable for eating. Local people use them to make traditional medicines for, among other things, diabetes. Monkey Island is also an ideal place for swimming and sunbathe. The island gets its name from being inhabited by weight number of monkeys. The primates snatch food from hands and can bite if provoked. Therefore, be on guard while in their company. To reach Monkey Island, take a 10-minute boat ride from Beo Wharf through the fishing village of Cai Beo. Most cruise ships have stops on the island, also there are always plenty of tourists there.

La Regina Legend cruise

The La Regina itinerary has been carefully devised to provide the best and most unusual experience for travelers wanting something truly unique and unforgettable aboard the ship. These cruises also provide transportation and accommodations. Spending the night aboard a cruise ship adds to its charm with stunning sunsets and starry skies. You can book a cruise here.

Fort Cannon

It is located on High Point 177 at 177 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of Cat Ba Island. Originally built by the Japanese during World War II in 1942, the fort was later used as a defensive position by Vietnamese forces during the Indochina and also the Vietnam Wars (1945-1975). The hike up to the fort provides spectacular views of the thick Cat Ba forest, rolling hills and a picturesque landscape of fishing boats moored at sea. The entrance gate is just a 10-minute walk from the town of Cat Ba, and the fort can be reached in less than 30 minutes. Here you can still see the cannons, trenches, tunnels, and artifacts left by soldiers. Nearby on the left side of the fort is another viewpoint that offers a view of the port in Cat Ba town. There is also a bar nearby. Admission costs 40,000 dong per person (less than $2) and 10,000 dong for motorcycle parking.

Visiting Lan Ha Bay during a canoe trip

Lan Ha Bay is located on the eastern side of Cat Ba Island and borders Ha Long Bay. Geologically, Lan Ha is largely an extension of Ha Long Bay, but geographically the islands are in a different province of Vietnam. It is a peaceful arc-shaped region with about four hundred small islands and islets that form an amazing archipelago. Versus to Ha Long Bay, all the islands in Lan Ha Bay are covered with green trees and vegetation. A unique feature that differs from Ha Long Bay, is that here there are many of narrow channels, between islets with beaches, where the color of the sand is practically white and there are no strong currents, making it an ideal place for kayaking trips. Lan Ha Bay is home to about 200 species of fish, 500 mollusks, about 400 arthropods and numerous hard and soft corals. Larger marine animals found in these waters include seals and dolphins. Canoeing is best organized in the town of Cat Ba. A recommended spot while kayaking in the local bay is around Vai Bon Island, where there are not many tourists, and it is quiet. Here you will also find several sandy and empty beaches.

Hospital Cave

There are several impressive caves on Cat Ba Island, but the most interesting is an underground, three-level bombproof hospital and shelter that served as a hideout for Vietcong leaders during the Vietnam War. Built between 1963 and 1965, the cave served as a hospital until 1975. Today, you can hire a guide to show you around the 17 rooms, including an operating room and a natural cave that functioned as a movie theater. There was also a swimming pool for soldiers. The cave is located about 10 kilometers from Cat Ba town near the main road. A guide costs about 15,000 VND (less than 1 USD) and admission costs 40,000 dong per person (less than $2 per person). It’s worth taking a guide with you because there is no information in place, for example, in the form of boards on the topic of this cavern.

Trung Trang Cave

This is a small cave 300 meters long, located in the central part of the island. It was discovered by Vietnamese and French archaeologists in 1938.

Ngu Lam Peak

Ngu Lam is an amazing vantage point from which you can enjoy the wildlife of Cat Ba Island and see hundreds of other peaks located on the island. To get there, you have to, drive up to the entrance to Cat Ba National Park. It is marked by a large arch on the main road. After parking at a nearby parking lot, the trail leads along the road. Then you need to walk towards the restaurant. The path winds through the jungle and is quite rolling. There are no very steep climbs on the trail, and the path is well-maintained. Along the way, you will come across an observation tower. Admission to the park costs 40,000 dong per person (less than $2). It takes about 1 hour to get to the top and about 45 minutes to descend. In total, you have to walk shy of than 4 kilometers, and the summit rises 225 meters above sea level. Remember to get water, decent shoes and possibly some snacks out.

HOW TO GET THERE

One option is, to get to Cat Ba Island, is to take a bus from Hanoi, which will take us to the islet in 4–5 hours (the time depends on the traffic on the road and the time it is necessary to cruise the ferry). The bus arrives at Got Ferry Terminal, from where the ferry transports us to the island. The ferry sails outs every hour between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. During peak season, it shuttles every 30 minutes. Fares are about $13 per adult. Buses leave several times during the day, usually at 7.30, 10.30-11:00 i 14.00-14.15.

A recommended company to buy bus tickets is Catbaexpress.com. The address from where the buses depart: 106 Đ. Trần Nhật Duật, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam, or Good Morning Cat Ba, 9B P. Chợ Gạo, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

There are three ferries a day from Ha Long Bay to the island, specifically from Tuan Chau. The ferry trip takes about an hour, and the cost is about 200,000 VND (about 20 USD) if we want to take our or a rented motorcycle with us on the island. From there it’s about a 40-minute drive, to the town of Cat Ba. There is a bus that shuttles there, which costs about 30,000 VND per person (about 3 USD). You can also take a cab, but keep in mind that such services are expensive in Cat Ba.

Another option is to travel from Hai Phong where you should get to Ben Binh pier. This is the main point from where boats and ferries shuttle to Cat Ba Island. The cruise takes about 1 hour. You can get to the pier by cab or local bus.

Another way is to take a private car/van from Hanoi to Cat Ba, which we can rent at the local airport. The price for a private car for one day is about $20.

It is also possible to get from Hanoi city to Hai Phong city by train. The trip takes about 2.5 hours, and ticket prices range from $3 to $4.

Cat Ba cable car

An interesting alternative is, getting to the island by cable car, which is one of the longest cable cars in the world. Its length is 4 kilometers. The project is owned by Sun Group, and it opened on June 6, 2020. It consists of 60 carriages, and one carriage accommodates a maximum of 30 passengers.

Opening hours (daily except Tuesdays):

Morning: 9 am – 11:30 am.

Afternoon: 1:30 pm – 4 pm (weekdays) or 1:30 pm – 6 pm (Saturday, Sunday).

Ticket price: 150,000 VND / adult.

Children: 100,000 VND / from 1 to 1.4 meters high; Free for children under 1 meter.

ACCOMMODATION

The undermentioned list includes recommended accommodations on Cat Ba Island.

Cat Ba Mountain View – a 2-star hotel located on the border of Cat Ba town and the reserve. The resort on its terrain has a swimming pool with a beautiful view of the entire bay. Private rooms are equipped with air conditioning.

Cat Ba Lucky Family Hotel – a 1-star friendly hotel. Rooms are spacious with air conditioning and private bathrooms.

Victor Charlie Hostel 2 – a cheap hostel with small rooms, with laundry and scooter rental in place. It’s worth taking a room on the top floor for a view of the bay and the city.

Secret Garden Hostel – a small hippie-style hostel. The apartment is slightly away from the center, so the area is more peaceful. In the evenings, the local pub plays regional music. A good choice for vegetarians and vegans.

Sea Pearl – a 3-star hotel located near the port in Cat Ba.

Cat Ba Eco-Lodge – 3-star hotel located on a reserve, about 13 km from Cat Ba port.

Flamingo Lan Ha Bay Resort – a hotel located near the center of Cat Ba with sea views and a swimming pool. It is located on Cat Co 2 beach.

Hôtel Perle D’Orient – 5-star luxury hotel located near Cat Co 3 beach.

Cat Ba Island Resort & Spa – 4-star hotel connective local architectural style with French

TIDBITS

Ha Long Bay, is visited by more than 10 million tourists annually.

One of the most recommended restaurants in Cat Ba city is Quiri Pub Cocktail & Restaurant.

USEFUL LINKS AND INFORMATION

For more information about the weather in Cat Ba, is here.

If you plan to travel to Vietnam and visit places where you are likely to encounter wild animals, it is a good idea to get vaccinated against rabies.

The cost of renting a motorcycle for a full day in Cat Ba is about $5.

If we do not want to organize a tour of Ha Long Bay on our own, we can use the services of Vietnam Travel.

ATTENTION! All prices quoted in this article are with October 2023.

SUMMARY

Cat Ba is certainly a special and unique place. While in Vietnam, it is definitely worth staying here, even if only for a few days. Thanks to its biodiversity and diverse landscapes, which include mangrove forests, islets, white sandy beaches and coral reefs, we are guaranteed that what we see here will not be encountered anywhere else. Because more than half of the island is protected as a national park, this will give us the opportunity to constant contact with nature. In addition, don’t forget about the activities which we can do here, such as, among others, kayaking, scuba diving and rock climbing.

Author BORIS G, source flickr.

Author Domino, Ha Long Bay, source Unsplasch.

Author BORIS G, source flickr.

Author Ashim D’Silva, Ha Long Bay, source Unsplash.

Author Ammie Ngo, Ha Long Bay, source Unsplash.

Author Rowan Heuvel, source Unsplash.

Author Nathan Cima, source Unsplash.

Author Marco Verch Professional Photographer, source flickr.

Author Binh Ho Image, source pxhere.

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AL QUDRA LAKES

THAM LOD CAVE

YALA NATIONAL PARK

Artykuł Cat Ba Island pochodzi z serwisu Adventures No Limits.

Tham Lod Cave

Adventures No Limits — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:06:27 +0000

10.10.2023

THAM LOD CAVE

Tham Lod Cave is one of the most famous caves in Thailand. This wonderful place, about 880 kilometers from the country’s capital Bangkok, attracts crowds of tourists who, in addition to exploring this cavern, want to take a canoe trip on the local river. While in the country, it is definitely worth adding this point on the map to your touring repertoire in this region of Asia.

DESCRIPTION

Tham Lod is one of the most impressive and accessible caves for tourists in Thailand. It is located in the province of Mae Hong Son. It owes this to its size and underground passageways, its limestone stalactite and stalagmite formations, and the so-called “coffin cave”, which is hidden in its deepest part.

Tham Lod is a system of three caves with a total length of 1,666 meters. The caverns are home to colonies of bats and common swifts, which can be seen in the cave’s vault. For almost its entire length, the Lang River (Nam Lang) flows through its center. Inside the cave, you will see more than 20-meter-high limestone formations in the form of columns, which were formed from the joining of stalagmites with stalactites. There is no lighting in the cave, and the only source of light when visiting this place is the guide’s lamp/flashlight. This makes the cave even more mysterious to visitors, and artificial light (if it had been installed) would probably take away from the charm of the place.

To get into the cave, we need to purchase entrance tickets with a guide. It is not possible to purchase the entrance ticket alone without a guide. Groups are limited to a maximum of three people. The limitation on such a number of people is because, at the beginning, the guide has to transport us on a bamboo raft to the cave so that we can explore the rest of the cavern. First, we will have to take a 15-minute walk from the ticket office, then cross several wooden bridges to get to a makeshift platform inside the cave, from where we will then take a raft along the river to walk down later into the depths of the cave. The parking lot is less than 500 meters from the ticket office.

At the beginning of the cave is a huge “entrance” hole, which is almost 50 meters high. This is where most common swifts are, and there is usually quite a lot of noise, but the effect is spectacular. The first cave is the so-called “Column Cave”. It owes its name precisely to the columns formed of stalactites and stalagmites. In addition, we can find limestone pillars and fossilized “waterfalls”.

To get to the next, second cave, the so-called “Dolls’ Cave”, we have to walk through a narrow and long corridor. There, in turn, we will encounter various rock formations, some of which may resemble the creatures of dolls or animals. In addition, we can see here faded cave paintings that show deer.

The last cave is the “Coffin Cave”. It got its name from the teak coffins found there, which are about 1000–1400 years old. In addition, bronze jewelry and metal tools were also found, suggesting that there was a tribal settlement in the area. This section of the cave is called “Pi Man” in Thai. Locals believe that these caves were created by spirits. If we want to go back to where we started the tour, we have to go over the bamboo bridge to the left of the entrance, and within fifteen minutes we will reach the first part of the cave.

BRIEFLY ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THIS PLACE

Tham Lod cave was inhabited by the Hoabinhian tribe in ancient times (9,700 BC–5500 BC). However, some scientists claim that it may have been inhabited by representatives of Homo sapiens as early as 40,000 BC. The tribe was a community of Stone Age hunters and gatherers who used primitive tools such as short axes, stone hammers, tools made from animal bones, etc. The caves were first discovered in the 1960s by Chester Gorman, an American anthropologist and archaeologist. According to him, Hoabinhians learned to cultivate legumes and many other fruits or vegetables, such as almonds, betel, pepper, and lagebaria.

LOCATION AND HOW TO GET THERE

Cave Tham Lod is located about 11 kilometers north of the Pang Mapha District Office. Driving from Pai (which is less than 50 kilometers away) on road 1095, just at the entrance to Pang Mapha, turn right, heading for Cave Lodge and Tham Lod. In Pai, we can rent a car (about 1,200 THB for a full day), a scooter (about 150 THB for a full day), or a motorcycle (about 800 THB for a full day). However, due to the rather steep climbs and sharp turns, it is not recommended to rent a scooter for such a trip. The reason is that there is not much engine power in such a vehicle, so we may have a problem driving up the mountain itself (road No. 1095) in addition to our luggage. On the other hand, much lower rental prices, reaching about 20–25%, are in Chiang Mai. However, in this case, we must remember that this town is almost 180 kilometers away from Tham Lod. On the way, it is worth stopping at the beautiful viewpoint of Doi Kiew Lom.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE CAVE

The best time of year to visit Tham Lod Cave is during the dry season (January–July). During this period, there are bamboo boat tours to the inside of the cave. During the rainy season (August–December), boat tours may not be available due to high water levels, and some deeper parts of the caves may not be accessible. Pending the rainy months, of course, you can still explore the caves on foot.

During the rainy season (July–August to December, depending on the river level), Cave Lodge organizes interesting canoe trips. Some canoe routes pass through Tham Lod and then continue downstream for 6–12 km. On some tours, you can visit other deserted caves along the way.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO TOUR THAM LOD?

The Tham Lod cave tour takes about 2 hours, including the time it takes to walk from the parking lot to the cave and return from the cave back to the point where the ticket office is located.

PRICE LIST AND OPENING HOURS

If you plan to visit Tham Lod cave on your own without any tourist bureau, then the cost is 650–800 THB (about £15 or $20 for 2023). This amount includes:

Entrance ticket: 200 THB per person for entry to the first cave (column cave), 250 THB per person for the two caves (column cave and doll cave), and 500 THB per person for all three caves (column cave, doll cave, and coffin cave, including rafting).

Rafting: 400 THB (up to 3 people if you choose the option to visit one or two caves).

Guide: 150 THB (you cannot enter the cave without a guide).

Each person must purchase an entrance ticket, but the price of the guide and boat can be shared among the group. Example: If a group of three people wants to visit Tham Lod Cave, the total price is as follows: 600 baht (for three entrance tickets), 400 baht for the boat, and 150 baht for the guide. A total of 1150 baht for the group (about £24 or US$30).

Tham Lod Cave is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 p.m.

Please note: the cave is inaccessible to wheelchair users.

If you would rather not take care of organizing the trip yourself, you can look for a tourist office in Pai town along the main road that organizes trips to Tham Lod.

ACCOMMODATION

If we would like to stay longer in this place, the best option would be to look for accommodation in Pai village. The village is a beautiful little locality located in the jungle. Pai has many places to stay, plenty of charming little restaurants and cafés, and a market selling food, clothing, and souvenirs. The village also has a very picturesque river with bamboo bridges.

Recommended apartments:

Oia Pai Resort – a tidbit, we move around the hotel in canoes.

Reverie Siam Resort – is a 5-star hotel.

Golden Hut Chill Bungalows – bungalows next to the bank of the river.

Pencave Homestay, Jungle Guesthouse, Pai Village Boutique.

USEFUL INFORMATION

We will mainly walk around the cave on slippery rocks and wooden bridges. It is advisable to wear footwear with a good sole/lug (not athletic shoes).

Be sure to check and monitor your fuel level before traveling, as there are no gas stations near the cave. Gasoline in Thailand costs about 40–50 THB per liter (2023).

If you plan to stay there for a longer period of time, don’t forget to take some essentials such as snacks, drinking water, sunscreen, headgear (a hat, cap), sunglasses, and, of course, a camera 😊. You can take a flashlight with you into the cave, BUT we only use it if we will be walking through the cave to shine under our feet as we walk. We do NOT shine it on the walls or the vault to avoid scaring the birds there and the bats.

Remember to tell the ticket agent at the checkout what kind of ticket we want to buy (how many caves we would like to see). If you forget to do so, don’t be surprised if you get an entrance ticket for only one cave when, for example, you wanted to visit all of them.

Plan your visit around 5:00–6:00 p.m. because at this time hundreds of bats fly out of the cave for their nightly insect hunt and about 300,000 common swifts return to their nests.

TIDBITS

There are plenty of fish to feed in the shallow waters of the cave. Food for them costs 50 THB per bag.

If we would like to get from Pai village to Tham Lod cave by cab, it is possible. The price per person is about 800 THB.

Several scenes for the movie “Thugs of Hindostan” (filmed by Bollywood) were shot in this cave.

More than 100,000 people visit this cave every year.

SUMMARY

In conclusion, Tham Lod Cave is a must-see for anyone visiting the northern part of Thailand. Its natural beauty, cultural significance, and rafting on the river that flows through its center make it an unforgettable experience. In addition to exploring the cave and marveling at the local limestone formations and paintings, let’s not forget that every evening a fantastic spectacle takes place here in the form of bats flying out to hunt at night and common swifts returning to their hiding places.

Author Vyacheslav Argenberg, source commons.wikimedia.org.

Author icon0com, source pxhere.

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YALA NATIONAL PARK

Artykuł Tham Lod Cave pochodzi z serwisu Adventures No Limits.

Yala National Park

Adventures No Limits — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:38:03 +0000

10.05.2023

YALA NATIONAL PARK

Yala National Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Sri Lanka. It owes its fame to the fact that it has one of the most numerous leopard populations per square kilometer in the world. The reserve borders the Indian Ocean on its southern and eastern sides, and is home to over 250 species of birds and mammals. The park is less than a four-hour drive from the national capital, Colombo. The reserve can only be traveled by off-road vehicle (in the form of a so-called safari), and for a surcharge, you can hire a guide to tell you about this wonderful place in English.

DESCRIPTION

Yala National Park was established on March 1, 1938, and is probably the most popular and visited national park in Sri Lanka. The park is divided into five blocks covering some 979 square kilometers. These stretch from the inland jungle to the beaches on the Indian Ocean. The 37-kilometer coastline that forms the park’s southern border is the nesting place for five species of turtles. The constantly changing dunes can reach heights of up to 25 meters. Yala consists mainly of metamorphic rocks with reddish-brown and gray soil that covers most of the area. The vast terrain consists of shrublands, riverine forests, moist, dry monsoon forests, thorn forests, and sweet and brackish wetlands. The park is located in a dry and semi-dry region with rainfall occurring mainly during the monsoon season falling in October-December. This is when the local vegetation begins to “revive” and take on color. The Yala Reserve is one of the best places in the world to observe leopards. Between 40 and 70 individuals live here (data depending on the source).

Sri Lanka is one of the few countries in the world the population every day has a contact with wild animals. Often can to see elephants crossing the road or sneaking into a hotel lobby. There are more than 20 national parks on the island, but what sets Yale Park feature from others is the wide variety of animals. The variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles is unparalleled on the island.

During the safari, we travel in a specially adapted jeep. The rear of the vehicle, where we sit, is raised and only partially enclosed, which provides a better view. In addition, those sitting in the front can undraw the windshield, which provides the opportunity to take nicer photos. During the trip, you must not leave the car. Many animals are in the distance and are difficult to see with the naked eye, so it’s a good idea to carry binoculars. Jeeps are allowed to enter Yala National Park twice a day; at 6 in the morning and at 2 in the afternoon. According to rangers, there is no ideal time frame for observing animals, but it is worth bearing in mind that in the morning it is the birds that are more active while in the evening it is the mammals. At noon, due to high temperatures, animals hide deep into the jungle from the sun. The Yala tour lasts about 4 hours or a full day, depending on which option one chooses. A guide in the park is not required, but drivers usually speak little or no English. The guide is very useful for spotting animals, selecting the best route and explaining how the circle of life in the reserve works. This will give you a better understanding of the behavior of the local animals and allow you to ask questions about the park.

The park has three ticket offices and four entrance gates. The busiest and southernmost gate is Palatupana, which stands on the southwestern border of Block I, about 20 kilometers from Tissamaharama. Less popular, but also well-known, Katagamuwa Gate stands 12 km east of Kataragama on the northwestern edge of Block I. No public transportation operates to either gate. If you don’t have private transportation, you’ll have to buy a trip to the park from one of the local hotels or tour operators based in Tissamaharama. Tickets can be purchased at both gates. The Galge ticket office, which opened in 2016, is located on the east side of Buttala Road, on the border of Blocks III and IV, 18 km north of Kataragama. It serves two separate gates on opposite sides of the main road. The eastern gate offers direct access to Block III and Block IV. Whereas the western, offers access to Block V, as well as indirect access (through Block V) to the more easterly Lunugamwehera National Park. Any bus that runs between Kataragama and Buttala can drop you off at the Galge ticket office, and you can usually pick up a jeep on-site, although just as well (and inexpensively) it can do in Kataragama.

LOCATION

Yala National Park is located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, about 290 kilometers from the capital, Colombo. The reserve is located along the southeast coast and borders the waters of the Indian Ocean. Some of Sri Lanka’s best surfing, swimming, and diving conditions occur here. Less than 13 kilometers offshore are the two coral reefs of Great Basses and Little Basses, as well as the two lighthouses of Maha Ravana, and Kuda Ravana.

BRIEF HISTORY

Maha Ravana Lighthouse got its name from the caves found in the local area on the seabed. The reef area was above the surface of the water and was “attached” to the rest of the island, and the caves served as a hideout for the ancient king, Ravana. After the sea level rose, these areas were flooded. Now there are lighthouses on top of both Great Basses and Little Basses reefs. There are three shipwrecks around the lighthouse on Great Basses. Both reefs abound with a large variety of fish and coral. Both sites can be reached from the town of Kirinda, from near the Jetwing Yala Hotel.

And what is the history of shipwrecks? The entire southeastern coast of Sri Lanka was once located on the shipping route to China and India. Navigation in the local waters was difficult and ships often stranded on the local reefs. The three wrecks located near the Maha Ravana lighthouse are of Indian, British and Portuguese origin. Diving there, you can find many interesting things – from British shells or beer bottles, to pieces of old ship decorations, and coins. It is worth mentioning that in the Indian ship that belonged to Moghul emperor Aurangzeb, there were probably only silver rupees that the ruler wanted to pay for the marble from which the Taj Mahal was built in the early 17th century. Arthur C Clarke (British novelist and science fiction writer) searched for this vessel and found it in 1961, extracting a significant portion of the valuables.

WHAT ARE “BLOCKS”?

Blocks are differently “areas.” Some of them have their names. Block 1, also known as “Ruhuna National Park,” is the most visited. It has 146 square kilometers and there most tourists go. Due to its popularity, many of the animals in Block 1 are more accustomed to cars, making them less frightened and not run away. In that is easier to spot, including elephants and leopards here. A full-day drive around Block 1 also gives you time to explore the relatively untouched area around the Menik River. Almost all safaris take place in Block 1, which is characterized by a high density of wildlife and an abundant scattering of natural watering holes and artificial reservoirs that were built by the ancient Ruhuna kings. In the area of Block 1, it is possible to obtain previous permission to cross the Menik River by bridge to the little-visited Block 2, which has a 35-kilometer coastline and is dotted with streams, lagoons and restored water reservoirs. Blocks 3 and 5 are quieter and there is less traffic, which gives the impression of a more “private safari”. However, the animals are more wary of humans. Block 5’s area is only 26 square kilometers, but it’s where you’ll find some of the most multiple clusters of waterfowl on the island. Block 5 borders the even less-visited Lunugamwehera National Park, a 245-kilometer area of dense forests centered around the eponymous tank where nearly 185 species of birds live. To the east, Yale Park borders Kumana National Park, which was once known as “Yala East” and can be accessed from the town of Arugum Bay. Kumana has many wetland tracts, which attract many migrating birds between April and July. Blocks 3 and 4 are covered with dense vegetation, which can make that we won’t see animals.

ANIMALS AND PLANTS

In a park can meet a many various of animals, especially birds and mammals. Here live the famous leopards, elephants (about 250 – 350 individuals data depending on the source), Asian buffalo, the chital, varanus, Sambar deer, crocodiles, peccaries, sloth bear and numerous species of monkeys. It is also an excellent place for bird watching. Among the trees, you can spot magnificent, colorful peacocks, parrots, eagles, herons, birds of the trogon (genus), or pelicans.

Some of the more popular local trees are the tamarind and the tamanu tree.

PRICE LIST AND OPENING HOURS

Currently, (2023) tourists have 5 tour options to choose from (names in parentheses are the names of gates on-premises park):

Block 1 (Palatupana) – Half day from 5:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. or from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. – 45 USD

Block 1 (Palatupana) – Full day from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. – 75 USD

Block 1 (Katagamuwa) – Half day from 5:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. or from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. – 50 USD

Block 1 (Katagamuwa) – Full day from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. – 85 USD

Blocks 4 and 5 (Galge) – All day from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. – 50 USD

Blocks 4 and 5 (Galge) – All day from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. – 80 USD

Regarding the above prices, one must bear in mind:

* The price quoted is for the fee per person when renting a full jeep, i.e., 6 people. The fewer people in the group, the higher the price will be.

* The rates quoted are for Mahindra/Tata off-road vehicles.

* An additional surcharge of 10 USD will be added for a Toyota or Mitsubishi brand car.

* The duration of the safari may vary depending on weather conditions.

* The above-mentioned rates do not include park entrance tickets, which must be purchased at the gate. Ticket price for an adult is about 15 USD, children over 6 years old about 8 USD, and under 6 years old admission is free.

* The above-mentioned rates include pickup from hotels within the city of Tissamaharama.

* No refunds are available after booking.

It is best to buy tickets a few weeks before you plan to visit Yala Park. This will give us the assurance that when we arrive in Sri Lanka, we will also visit this place. Because of the large number of tourists, it is virtually impossible to buy a ticket to the reserve overnight. You can do it through the official website, which you can find here. Booking depends on filling out and sending a form, selecting the block which we want to visit and determining whether we choose a full-day tour or a half-day tour. We will then be contacted by the person responsible for reservations at Yala and receive a pro forma invoice. After online payment, our tour is confirmed.

The park additionally offers a free transportation service from the Tissamaharama area to the reserve. It is also possible to be picked up from other nearby towns, but in this case, one should to inquire about the pricing of such transportation via the official website or email info@yalasrilanka.lk

The opening hours of the Yala National Park are 6:00 am – 6:00 pm.

WHERE TO STAY?

Below is a list of several recommended accommodations near Yala Park:

Janaka Safari Homestay – offers accommodation in tree houses, which is certainly an interesting attraction for tourists.

Leopard Nest – Glamping in Yala – one of the most expensive and luxurious hotels near the reserve.

Cinnamon Wild – a resort located near the jungle, whereby at night certainly can to experience the sounds of wildlife. Virtually every room has a balcony and a view of the jungle or ocean.

Wild coast tented lodge – luxury accommodations with a pool on the park’s border.

Chena Huts by Uga Escapes – an all-inclusive hotel with own pool.

Jetwing Yala – this is an excellent group hotel in Sri Lanka and is located near the coast.

Avonil Resort Yala – a reasonably inexpensive lodging with a pool and a little distance from Yala National Park.

LakeSide Cabana Tissamharama – wooden lodges with a playground for children.

Yala Hotel Lion – air-conditioned cheap hotel.

WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU

There are no stores or restaurants in Yala National Park, so be sure to take provisions and plenty of water with you. Be sure to take a garbage bag, which you can then put in your backpack.

Of course, remember to take binoculars with you, as well as a camera 😊.

If you want to avoid getting burned, you need to pack sunscreen in your backpack. It will also be a good idea to take repellent (insect repellent) with you.

TEMPLES IN THE PARK

In the northwestern part of Block 1, is the ancient Situlpawwa Buddhist monastery, which was founded in the 2nd century BC by Kavan Tissa. Legend says that it housed more than 10,000 Arahant monks in its heyday, when it was surrounded by productive agricultural land irrigated by a system of local reservoirs. They were created during the Ruhuna Kingdom in the 1st century BC, and their names are Buttuwa, Gonagala, Bambawa and Banduwewa.

The site is visited in early June every year by pilgrims, of which the number is in the tens of thousands. They come for an annual festival organized by Sri Lankan Buddhists to celebrate the arrival of Buddhism on the island in the 3rd century BC, and the name of the festival is Poson or Poson Poya. The complex consists of more than a hundred caves surrounded by jungle and topped by dagobas (A dagoba is a type of Buddhist, less commonly Jain, originated in India. Due to its architecture, it is extremely resistant to earthquakes. In Sri Lanka this type of building is called dagoba, in Thailand – chedi, in Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet – chorten, in Mongolia – suburgan).

The complex was increasingly neglected over time, and the monastery and surrounding grounds were abandoned around 1300 AD after a prolonged and devastating drought, which caused the starvation deaths of hundreds of monks. For lovers of ancient paintings, in one of the caves preserves a few paintings from the Anuradhapura era. The monastery is located less than 5 km from Katagamuwa Gate. Although the temple is surrounded by a national park, you don’t have to pay an entrance fee to see it.

Another former monastery within the reserve is Magul Maha Viharaya.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT YALA NATIONAL PARK

If we care to observe the local mammals, the best time is between February and June, when the dry season falls on this time. Then the animals have to go out of the jungle more often into water reservoirs, which are largely dried up anyway. This gives you a chance to spot the animals in more open, unplanned areas. The best period for leopard sightings is from February to April. Keep in mind, that this is the period when there are the most tourists, so be prepared for quite a crowd of people.

On the other hand, if you want to avoid the crowds of tourists and want to observe migratory birds, the best time for this is between November and January.

In September, Yala National Park is closed due to maintenance work. However, most rain falls during the monsoon, which lasts from October to late December.

HOW TO REACH THERE

There are 4 international airports in Sri Lanka: Colombo Airport, which services the largest number of passenger airlines from other countries, Jaffna, Batticaloa and Mattala. The closest to the park of them all is Mattala Airport, but nothing stands in the way to trying to get from any other state-run airport to the Weerawila Airport, which services small planes and helicopters. The distance between Weerawila and Tissamaharama is 10 kilometers, and you can reach there by bus.

There are fine bus services between Ella – Tissamaharama where the ticket costs about 70 cents per person and the trip takes less than 3 hours. And between Mirissa – Matara – Tissamaharama where the ticket price is about 1 euro per person and the trip takes less than 4 hours (prices for 2023). It is best to ask the driver whether he is going to Tissamaharama or Yala National Park, or write on a piece of paper and show him. After arriving at the Tissamaharama Bus Stand, it is worth looking for a tuk tuk to take you to your hotel. Going from Ella village, you can also get off at the bus station at Pannegamuwa Junction.

You can also use private transportation, which can be arranged for us by &BEYOND in Sri Lanka (Address: Postal & Physical Address: No. 303/3A, R A De Mel Mawatha Colombo 03, phone: +94 778 327 144)

When arriving at the island, it is necessary to obtain a visa. This can be done through the Electronic Travel Authorization via www.eta.gov.lk. Those who arrive at the airport without a visa will be able to obtain it at the airport, But it entails higher costs and a one- or two-hour waiting time for visa collection.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

While in the park, let’s not shout or leave the vehicle.

We do not dress in bright colors. Instead, we choose earth tones or greens.

When going on a full-day safari, let’s make sure we have charged batteries for our camera.

Afternoon safaris in Yala are a bit calmer than the morning trips (fewer tourists) and leopards, as well as other wildlife, are more active at this time (due to lower temperatures).

USEFUL LINKS

Official website of Yala National Park

https://www.yalasrilanka.lk/

Site where you can make reservations.

https://www.yalasrilanka.lk/yala-safari-ride.html

Safari tours to Yala National Park

https://www.viator.com/Yala-National-Park/d24382-ttd

Other hotels near Yala reserve

https://www.booking.com/region/lk/yala-region.pl.html

TIDBITS

About 40 minutes into the Indian Ocean from Kirinda Beach, you can see dolphins and humpback whales.

The cost of a boat trip to Great Basses Reef is about SLR 12,000, that’s approximately US$36 (2018 price).

Shipwrecks are located at a depth of only 15–20 meters, and on sunny days you can even see them without diving.

Companies such as National Geographic and the BBC have often come to this place to film leopard life in the local jungle.

Very occasionally in the park, you may encounter members of the Vedda tribe. This is a people who number it is about 400 and live in the southeastern part of the island. The population subsists on foraging, hunting and cultivation of the land. The community has been under protection since 1900.

SUMMARY

Sri Lanka is certainly an island that is one of a kind. There is no lack of attractions for lovers of nature, history, culture, or architecture. The place that combines all these features is undoubtedly Yala National Park. Here you can observe animals such as leopards, elephants and sloth bears, admire ancient temples and learn about the history of the largest and most popular park on the entire island. Staying overnight in one of the hotels in Tissamaharama, we will not only have close contact with nature, but also with the local culture and customs of the Sri Lanka residents.

Author Patty Ho, source flickr.

Author Byrdyak, source commons.wikimedia.org.

Author Rohit Varma, source Unsplash.

Source wallpaperflare.com

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UÇHISAR CASTLE

Artykuł Yala National Park pochodzi z serwisu Adventures No Limits.

Archiwa: Asia - Adventures No Limits

Hallasan

HALASAN VOLCANO

DESCRIPTION

TRAILS

RESERVATION SYSTEM

HOW TO GET TO HALLASAN?

TIPS FOR TAKING PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AND CABS

OPENING HOURS AND FEES

CLOSING HOURS

ACCOMODATION

MYTHS AND LEGENDS

TIPS AND ADVICE

USEFUL LINKS

TIDBITS

SUMMARY

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CAT BA ISLAND

THAM LOD CAVE

THE YUANYANG RICE TERRACES

The Yuanyang Rice Terraces

THE YUANYANG RICE TERRACES

DESCRIPTION

HISTORY OF THE PLACE

WHERE ARE YUANYANG RICE TERRACES

BEST TIME TO VISIT

OPENING HOURS AND ENTRANCE TICKETS

TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

RECOMMENDED TRAILS

NEARBY TOWNS

HOW TO GET TO YUANYANG

ACCOMMODATIONS

ATTRACTIONS NEAR THE RICE TERRACES

TIPS AND USEFUL INFORMATION

TIDBITS

SUMMARY

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CAT BA ISLAND

THAM LOD CAVE

YALA NATIONAL PARK

Cat Ba Island

CAT BA ISLAND

DESCRIPTION

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ISLAND

FLORA AND FAUNA

WEATHER ON THE ISLAND

WHAT’S WORTH SEEING

Cat Ba rock climbing

Watching the coral reefs

Night squid fishing during cruises

A visit to Cai Beo fishing village

Exploring Cat Ba National Park

Cat Co beaches

Monkey Island (Cat Dua Island)

La Regina Legend cruise

Fort Cannon

Visiting Lan Ha Bay during a canoe trip

Hospital Cave

Trung Trang Cave

Ngu Lam Peak

HOW TO GET THERE

ACCOMMODATION

TIDBITS

USEFUL LINKS AND INFORMATION

SUMMARY

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AL QUDRA LAKES

THAM LOD CAVE

YALA NATIONAL PARK

Tham Lod Cave

THAM LOD CAVE

DESCRIPTION

BRIEFLY ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THIS PLACE

LOCATION AND HOW TO GET THERE

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE CAVE

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO TOUR THAM LOD?

PRICE LIST AND OPENING HOURS