Kataragama is a venerated religious site which is frequented by many Sri Lankans of all ethnicities. It also happens to be one of the 16 places on the island visited by the Lord Buddha. History The Kataragama deity is believed to have lived in the jungles near the Menik River with his two wives. King Dutugamunu is said to have visited the deity to fulfil a vow he made to him after defeating his rival. He was told to build a shrine on the location where a golden arrow shot by the Kataragama deity landed, hence, the location of the temple as seen today. The Festival The Kataragama festival commences 10 days prior to the full moon which falls on July and ends with a …

The end of the Ramadan months signals the beginning of a festival called Hai Raya Puasa in Malaysia. With most of the population in the country being Muslims, the festivities are celebrated in on a grand scale. Here are some facts about Hari Raya Puasa. Before the feast Ramadan is said to be the 9th month on the Islamic colander is also one of the holiest months for Muslims. During this period, the devotees avoid eating, drinking and smoking during the day. This act of fasting and abstinence is for one to learn good virtues like patience, humility and spirituality while surrendering oneself to Allah. The period of fasting begins at dawn and ends at 4 pm. Prayer time During this one month of fasting, …

Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, especially where the tropics are concerned. If you’re seeking a romantic getaway, this island landscape has much to offer. Pura Taman Ayun This beautiful temple garden complex is one Bali’s most treasured attractions and renowned across the world for its exotic beauty and tranquil ambiance. It is a place brimming with adventure as well as beauty. Tanah Lot This refers to a spectacular rock formation that rises out of the sea just off the beach in Tabanan. The name itself means “Land in the Sea”. The landmass was apparently discovered in the 16th century by a Hindu traveller, and eventually, a shrine and temple were built. Ubud Monkey Forest You don’t always discover …

There is a host of festivals and events that are popularly celebrated by the residents of Bangkok. Given below are some of the most fervently celebrated occasions in this city Chinese New Year This joyously celebrated festival is particularly important to residents of Chinese descent. Bangkok’s Chinatown, the locality of Yaowaraj comes vibrantly alive with dragon dances, innumerable firecrackers and a joyous festive ambience. Loy Krathong This unique and distinctive festival is an occasion that is important to Thais. This significant event usually falls in November on a full moon night, when innumerable Thais make their way to rivers, canals and lakes in order to release pretty little rafts created in the shape of a lotus flower. Visitors can stay in Bangkok luxury hotels the likes of Anantara …

The Yas Marina Grand Prix, located in the busiest and one of the most advancing cities in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi attracts the world’s best racers every year to race on this world-class track.   The Race The Yas Marina Grand Prix is held every November where popular sporting stars such as Lewis Hamilton, Kimi Raikkonen, Sebastien Vettel and others head over to the track to race and try their luck at this circuit. As there are a number of tour packages to Dubai, do check how you can attend this star-studded sporting event. Yas Island Yas Island is a manmade island off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The Yas Marina Circuit is the second in the Middle East that was constructed for Formula …

An event of profound religious and spiritual significance, the Wai Kru Festival or the Sak Yant Festival claims to bring physical and spiritual protection by way of the many exotic Sak Yant tattoos. What is the Wai Kru Festival? An intense experience and one of the famous festivals in Bangkok, the Wai Kru Festival is also known as the Sak Yant Festival. The Wai Kru Festival is not to be confused with the traditional phrase “Wai Kru” that is part of a ritual where students pay gratitude to their teachers. Tattooing the Devotees Over 10,000 Buddhist devotees gather at the Wat Bang Phra (temple) in Thailand for the Wai Kru Festival. The tattooists or the monks at the temple draw protective tattoos on the devotees with …