Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
One of the most iconic landmarks in Kerala, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a must-visit in Thiruvananthapuram. This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is famous for its ancient Dravidian architecture and spiritual significance. Built in the 18th century by Travancore Maharaja Marthanda Varma, the temple houses the deity in the unique "Anantha Shayanam" posture - reclining on the serpent Anantha.
No trip or any trip to Kerala, India, is complete without experiencing their houseboat cruise. It’s a must. Those who’ve done it will vouch it's one of the best things Kerala offers for your things to do in Kerala list or sightseeing in Kerala (COLOMBO SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).
As for the three of us, this backwater tour in Kerala was already part of our Kerala travel itinerary, all necessary payment included. We opted for an overnight stay in a houseboat, which also included all meals. Ours was a two-room private houseboat, just for the three of us.
The greatest disappointment was the cancellation of our visit to the Okurayama Viewing Point, the 1972 Winter Olympic Games ski jumping venue. As someone who relishes visiting iconic spots, this news hit hard, like a sharp arrow piercing my heart. Also cancelled was the panoramic view of Sapporo city from the mountain peak and the visit to the serene Sapporo Shrine in Maruyama Park. No sightseeing at all. It felt like an explosion in my head, shattering my excitement.
It's a familiar feeling that always accompanies the end of my travels, a longing for more adventures instead of returning to the grind. But reality bites; I need to work and save before planning the next holiday. Given the choice, I'd travel 365 days a year. As I showered, I mentally calculated how long it would take to save for my next trip. Once dressed, I joined the group for the buffet breakfast.
Breakfast at Hotel Maharoba (NOBORIBETSU WINTER TIME) was a revelation. While my tour buddies raved about the dinner, I found the buffet breakfast to be an absolute delight. Those Japanese-style dishes, especially the ones featuring tofu, seaweed, fresh seafood, and a variety of vegetables, were simply amazing. And when I saw congee and bacon- my all-time favorite - my excitement soared.
The varieties of egg dishes were equally impressive, cooked in the soft and fluffy Japanese style. And let's not forget the Japanese desserts, which were an absolute treat - soft, melt-in-your-mouth perfection that added a sweet start to my day.
Winter is the season that draws travellers to Hokkaido, Japan - and for good reason (HOKKAIDO TRAVEL GUIDE). While destinations like Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano, Yuzawa, and Nozawaonsen also boast winter charm, Hokkaido stands out as one of the top spots for snow-filled adventures. From thrilling snow activities to comforting local cuisine, here’s a closer look at what makes a Hokkaido winter experience truly special (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE, SRI LANKA).
Snow Activities
in Hokkaido
Winter in Hokkaido is synonymous with snow adventures. While skiing is a popular choice among visitors, snowmobiling offers an equally exciting alternative. Near Hilton Niseko Village, a designated area offers snowmobile rides suitable for beginners and thrill-seekers alike.
Hokkaido, located at the northernmost tip of Japan, is one of the most popular destinations among Malaysians (KERALA INDIA TOURIST SPOTS). Particularly during winter, Hokkaido becomes a magnet for travellers thanks to its soft powder snow, ski resorts, snow festivals, hot springs, and comforting local food. A winter holiday in Hokkaido for Malaysians is truly an unforgettable experience. We were amongst the thousands enjoying winter in Hokkaido - and there’s more to do and explore beyond the snow.
Finally, here I come - Colombo, Sri Lanka (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE). Two days before flying back to Malaysia. Without a fixed itinerary, I just went with the flow - exploring places to visit, see, and do. Thankfully, I still had my travel guide, who doubled as my driver, to point out the sightseeing highlights. And yes, even before reaching Colombo from Galle, there were stopovers worth mentioning.
Tsunami
Honganji Vihara Memorial
I paused briefly at the Tsunami Honganji Vihara Memorial - built in
remembrance of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami victims. A somber moment. Ten
quiet minutes, standing in silence, paying respect before resuming my road
trip (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA).
Honestly, I knew nothing about Galle when I left KATARAGAMA SRI LANKA. It was a blank slate - no expectations, no images in my mind. But once I arrived and explored, I understood why this city draws thousands of visitors year-round. Galle is a blend of cultures shaped by Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. From colonial buildings and forts to churches and quaint streets, it’s where East meets West - yet still proudly Sri Lankan at heart (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA).
Leaving NUWARA ELIYA early in the morning, it took us several hours to reach Kataragama. Located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, Kataragama is one of the island’s oldest and most sacred towns. People from all walks of life - Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and even tourists - visit this spiritual town, either to seek blessings or as part of their travel journey (THINGS TO DO IN NEGOMBO).
Temples
On the drive into Kataragama, I noticed temples along the way - some active, others seemingly quiet or unused. I briefly stepped down at one, just for a quick look. Even without stopping at every temple, I could feel the spiritual pull. Kataragama is, as I like to call it, a pilgrimage town. These temples speak directly to your breath, body, mind, and soul - meaningful and significant in their own quiet way.
What can you expect in Nuwara Eliya, or even on the route involving a drive uphill and downhill through winding mountain roads?
My journey from Kandy (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA) to Nuwara Eliya took me up into the central highlands, passing tea plantations, misty forests, waterfalls, and valleys along the way. Nuwara Eliya sits at an elevation of about 1,868 meters (6,128 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest towns in the country. It is often called “Little England.”
From Negombo (THINGS TO DO IN NEGOMBO), the road journey - roughly two hours - took me deeper into the heart of Sri Lanka, revealing some of the must-visit destinations the country proudly offers. Along the way, I passed through Rambukkana, Mawanella, and Kandy. Covering these areas took two days, filled with fascinating sightseeing stops.
Pinnawala
Elephant Orphanage (Rambukkana)
I arrived at about 11:30 am, and the place was packed. From the parking area to the riverbank, the street buzzed with shops and visitors. At the river, I watched elephants of all sizes bathing and playing- an up-close and endearing experience. After the usual photos with the elephants (expect to pay), I joined the crowd lining the roadside to see the elephants parading back to the orphanage. Inside, I spent time learning how these gentle giants are cared for. Truly worth a visit.
Beautiful beaches, untouched nature, ancient temples, deep-rooted traditions, and flavorful Sri Lankan food rich in spices and coconut milk - these were already in my mind before I even landed in the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.
My flight from Malaysia landed at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) - also known as Colombo Airport or Katunayake Airport - located in Katunayake, a suburb of Negombo. This is where I began.
Always a favorite, don’t you agree? Fried Banana Chips are a staple in my home - whether as a crispy snack or a crunchy side dish for vegeta...
