Category Archives: travel

Island treks with stunning coastal views: A list

Island Treks with Stunning Coastal Views: A List

By Simran Jeet | Sep 24, 2025 | 02:15 pm

Exploring islands on foot offers a unique way to experience their natural beauty and cultural richness. Island treks allow travelers to immerse themselves in diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged coastlines. Here are some of the best island treks that promise unforgettable adventures for those seeking to connect with nature and enjoy breathtaking views.

1. Discovering Madeira’s Levadas

Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago, is famous for its levada walks. These are irrigation channels with trails running alongside them. The levadas take you through the island’s stunning landscapes, from laurel forests to terraced fields.

One of the most popular routes is the PR1 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço, offering dramatic coastal views and unique geological formations. Trekkers can enjoy moderate hikes with varying lengths and difficulty levels, making it accessible for many.

2. Exploring New Zealand’s Great Walks

New Zealand boasts several Great Walks on its islands, providing trekkers with opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing on the North Island is one of the most famous treks, featuring volcanic landscapes and emerald lakes.

On the South Island, the Routeburn Track takes you through alpine scenery and native forests. These walks are well-maintained and offer huts and campsites for overnight stays, catering to multi-day trekking adventures.

3. Hiking Greece’s Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge in Crete is one of Europe’s longest canyons, stretching 16 kilometers. This trek offers stunning views as it winds through towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

The gorge opens up into the Libyan Sea at Agia Roumeli village, where hikers can relax after their journey. The best time to visit is between May and October when weather conditions are favorable for trekking.

4. Trekking Scotland’s Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye in Scotland is renowned for its rugged landscapes and dramatic scenery, making it an ideal trekking destination.

The Quiraing hike offers breathtaking views over the Trotternish Ridge, while the Fairy Pools trek lets you experience crystal-clear waters nestled beneath the Cuillin Mountains. Trails on Skye vary from easy walks to challenging scrambles, catering to all skill levels.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/island-treks-with-stunning-coastal-views-a-list/story

India’s most peaceful desert retreats: A list

**India’s Most Peaceful Desert Retreats: A List**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 23, 2025, 02:16 PM*

India’s deserts are not just vast expanses of sand; they are also home to some of the most tranquil retreats. These peaceful getaways provide an opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature. From the serene dunes of Rajasthan to the quiet stretches of Kutch, these retreats offer a unique blend of peace and adventure.

Here’s a look at some of India’s most peaceful desert retreats.

### Thar Retreat: Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Oasis

Rajasthan’s Thar Desert is dotted with several peaceful retreats that offer a unique experience with calm surroundings and traditional hospitality. Visitors can enjoy camel safaris, star-gazing sessions, and cultural performances by local artists.

Many retreat centers feature mud cottages that blend perfectly with the environment, giving you a comfortable stay while you soak in the desert’s natural beauty.

### Kutch Stay: A Unique Desert Experience

Kutch in Gujarat is famous for its white salt flats and vibrant culture. The region also houses peaceful retreats where you can relax away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

These retreats offer guided tours of the salt flats, bird watching activities, and workshops on local crafts. Guests stay in simple yet comfortable accommodations and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.

### Desert Camps: A Night Under the Stars

Desert camps are a popular choice for those looking to experience the tranquility of India’s deserts up close. These camps typically feature tents equipped with basic amenities, allowing guests to enjoy the simplicity of desert life without compromising comfort.

Activities such as bonfires, folk music sessions, and guided nature walks are common, making for an authentic and memorable desert experience.

### Eco Retreats: Sustainable Relaxation

For the environmentally conscious traveler, eco-friendly desert retreats provide sustainable options across India’s arid regions. These places focus on minimizing environmental impact by using renewable energy sources, implementing water conservation techniques, and supporting local communities through employment in tourism services.

Guests can participate in eco-tours that educate them about conservation efforts while enjoying a peaceful stay amidst stunning landscapes.

Whether you seek cultural immersion, adventure, or simply a quiet retreat, India’s deserts offer an array of peaceful options to rejuvenate your mind and soul.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/where-to-find-the-most-peaceful-desert-retreats-in-india/story

Peru’s Machu Picchu could lose ‘Wonder of the World’

In 2007, Peru’s Machu Picchu Inca sanctuary was designated as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World after receiving more than 100 million votes in a global competition.

Now, the New7Wonders project, which organized the vote, warns that Machu Picchu is at risk of losing its credibility as one of the wonders. This is due to issues such as overtourism, limited conservation policies, and social conflicts, among others.

The organization emphasized that the fate of Machu Picchu depends on the country’s key decision-makers. These leaders have reportedly received proposals to implement a strategic transformation plan aimed at protecting and preserving the site.

When asked if Machu Picchu could lose its spot on the list and whether a different site might take its place, New7Wonders responded that it is too soon to discuss the process, how it would work, or if it would happen at all.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/perus-machu-picchu-could-lose-wonder-of-the-world-tag-due-to-tourism-social-conflicts-23594920

India’s most beautiful waterfalls: A list

**India’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls: A List**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 18, 2025, 06:06 PM*

India is blessed with some of the best natural wonders, and its waterfall trails are no different. These trails offer nature lovers the chance to explore stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and the calming sound of gushing water. From the Western Ghats to the Northeastern hills, each trail presents something unique to hikers and trekkers.

Here’s a look at some of India’s most beautiful waterfall trails that promise both adventure and serenity.

### 1. Jog Falls: A Majestic Cascade
Located in Karnataka, Jog Falls is home to India’s highest waterfalls. The Sharavathi River plunges dramatically from a height of 253 meters, creating a spectacular sight. The surrounding area offers several trekking routes, allowing visitors to witness the falls from multiple vantage points. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the falls are at their fullest and most impressive.

### 2. Dudhsagar Falls: A Milky Marvel
Famous for its milky white shade, Dudhsagar Falls in Goa cascades down from a height of 310 meters through dense forests. This four-tiered waterfall is accessible either by trekking through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary or by train on the Vasco-Madgaon route. Visiting during the monsoon months enhances the beauty of Dudhsagar with an increased flow of water.

### 3. Athirappilly Falls: Kerala’s Natural Wonder
Known as “The Niagara of India,” Athirappilly Falls in Kerala is a breathtaking sight. Standing 24 meters tall and over 100 meters wide at peak flow, these falls are a treat for the eyes. Visitors exploring the nearby Sholayar ranges or Vazhachal forest areas can follow footpaths that lead right up to these majestic waterscapes.

### 4. Nohkalikai Falls: Meghalaya’s Hidden Gem
Nohkalikai Falls, near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, stands tall at approximately 340 meters, making it one of the tallest plunge-type waterfalls in the world. Surrounded by lush green cliffs often blanketed with misty clouds year-round, this destination experiences high rainfall levels. It is a favorite among trekkers seeking both serene and thrilling adventures.

Whether you are an avid trekker or simply a lover of nature, exploring these magnificent waterfalls across India offers unforgettable experiences filled with natural beauty and tranquility.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/discover-india-s-stunning-waterfall-trails/story

India’s most beautiful waterfalls: A list

**India’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls: A List**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 18, 2025, 06:06 PM*

India is blessed with some of the most spectacular natural wonders, and its waterfall trails are no exception. These trails offer nature lovers the opportunity to explore stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and the soothing sounds of cascading water. From the Western Ghats to the hills of the Northeast, each trail provides a unique experience for hikers and trekkers alike.

Here’s a look at some of India’s most beautiful waterfalls that promise both adventure and serenity.

### 1. Jog Falls: A Majestic Cascade
Located in Karnataka, Jog Falls is India’s highest waterfall. The Sharavathi River plunges from a height of 253 meters, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The area around the falls offers several trekking routes, allowing visitors to admire the falls from different vantage points. The best time to visit Jog Falls is during the monsoon season when the waterfall is at its fullest and most impressive.

### 2. Dudhsagar Falls: A Milky Marvel
Famous for its milky white appearance, Dudhsagar Falls in Goa cascades down 310 meters in four distinct tiers. Nestled within dense forests, the waterfall can be reached by trekking through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary or by taking the train on the Vasco-Madgaon route. Visiting during the monsoon season enhances the beauty of these falls, thanks to the increased water flow.

### 3. Athirappilly Falls: Kerala’s Natural Wonder
Often called “The Niagara of India,” Athirappilly Falls in Kerala is a breathtaking sight. Although it stands only 24 meters tall, it spans over 100 meters wide at peak flow, making it a spectacular natural attraction. The falls are easily accessible via footpaths through the nearby Sholayar ranges and Vazhachal forest areas, offering visitors a refreshing experience amidst pristine wilderness.

### 4. Nohkalikai Falls: Meghalaya’s Hidden Gem
Situated near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, Nohkalikai Falls drops approximately 340 meters, ranking it among the tallest plunge-type waterfalls in the world. Surrounded by lush green cliffs perpetually covered in mist, this destination offers a mystical ambiance year-round due to the region’s high rainfall. It is a favorite spot for avid trekkers seeking both tranquility and thrilling adventures.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or someone looking to connect with nature, these waterfall trails across India promise unforgettable experiences wrapped in the beauty of the great outdoors.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/discover-india-s-stunning-waterfall-trails/story