Ways to Travel
Sri Lanka Ignites The Spirit Of Exploration At Cinnamon Habarana Complex With The Gathering Of Giants A Powerful And Purpose-Driven Wildlife Travel Adventure
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Sri Lanka ignites the spirit of exploration at the Cinnamon Habarana Complex with The Gathering of Giants 2025, a rare and transformative wildlife event. This purpose-driven travel experience offers front-row access to Asia’s largest wild elephant gathering, blending conservation, education, and eco-luxury in one unforgettable journey
Sri Lanka’s Cinnamon Habarana to Host The Gathering of Giants 2025: A Transformative Wildlife Travel Experience From July 25 to 27
Sri Lanka is set to welcome global nature lovers once again as Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, in collaboration with Cinnamon Nature Trails and supported by Seylan Bank, proudly presents the third edition of its premier wildlife experience, The Gathering of Giants. Taking place from July 25 to 27, 2025, at the Cinnamon Habarana Complex, this event is one of the most immersive and powerful nature encounters in South Asia, especially appealing to travellers from nearby India.
Timed perfectly around a long weekend for many Indian visitors, the event offers an exceptional opportunity to combine meaningful travel, conservation awareness, and unforgettable exploration in the wild. Guests will have rare access to one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural spectacles—the seasonal migration of wild elephants to Sri Lanka’s Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. This majestic gathering, recognized internationally as one of the world’s top wildlife spectacles, showcases hundreds of elephants in their natural environment.
Discover the Wild Heart of Sri Lanka
Situated in the island’s renowned Cultural Triangle, the Cinnamon Habarana Complex—which includes Cinnamon Lodge Habarana and Habarana Village by Cinnamon—serves as a luxurious yet eco-conscious base for visitors seeking close encounters with nature. Surrounded by pristine forest, lakes, and grasslands, the setting is ideal for observing wildlife while enjoying Cinnamon’s signature blend of comfort and sustainability.
The Gathering of Giants 2025 is not just a nature tour—it is a three-day immersive event that combines guided excursions, educational workshops, and interactive wildlife sessions aimed at deepening guests’ understanding of the island’s unique biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Experience Asia’s Largest Elephant Gathering
Central to the event is the awe-inspiring sight of hundreds of wild elephants coming together at the water reservoirs of Minneriya and Kaudulla. This seasonal movement, triggered by dry weather conditions, offers a rare glimpse into the social behaviors of these gentle giants. Observers can witness elephants bathing, feeding, and interacting with their herds—free and undisturbed in their natural surroundings.
What makes this experience particularly compelling is its alignment with ethical tourism practices. All wildlife encounters are conducted in small groups, led by trained naturalists, ensuring minimal impact on the animals and their habitats. There is no elephant riding, feeding, or artificial contact—only pure observation and learning.
A Meaningful and Educational Journey
The event features a dynamic programme designed for travellers of all ages and interests. Through hands-on activities and educational sessions, guests will explore a broad spectrum of Sri Lanka’s wildlife beyond just elephants, including birds, forest ecosystems, and local flora. These elements provide a rich, holistic understanding of the island’s ecological diversity.
Participants will leave not only with photographs and memories but also with greater awareness of the importance of conservation, the challenges of habitat protection, and the need for sustainable travel choices that contribute to preserving natural treasures for generations to come.
Responsible Tourism at the Core
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has long been committed to environmentally responsible hospitality, and The Gathering of Giants stands as a proud reflection of that ethos. The event emphasizes conservation-first tourism, with all experiences designed to educate, inspire, and protect.
With the support of Seylan Bank, this initiative also aims to spotlight sustainable travel funding, community inclusion, and the importance of conservation-focused partnerships. Together, the effort enhances public understanding of environmental stewardship while boosting eco-tourism in the region.
Perfect for Families, Adventure Seekers, and Indian Travellers
Whether you’re a solo nature enthusiast, an adventure-loving couple, or a family with children eager to learn about wildlife, The Gathering of Giants offers something for everyone. Children can enjoy age-appropriate sessions on nature awareness, while adults can take part in wildlife photography treks, nature walks, and conservation workshops.
For Indian travellers, the event’s July dates coincide with a long weekend, making it an ideal short getaway that blends leisure, discovery, and inspiration. With increasing demand from the Indian market, early reservations are highly recommended to secure the best travel packages and park access.
“Bringing The Gathering of Giants to life for the third consecutive year reaffirms our deep and
enduring commitment to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s wildlife heritage,” said Hishan Singhawansa,
Chief Executive Officer Designate of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. “This event goes beyond
observation—it’s about sparking awareness, nurturing responsible tourism, and uniting
communities and experts to drive lasting change. It’s one of over 35 ongoing humanitarian and
conservation initiatives that shape who we are and what we stand for.”
Cinnamon Habarana Complex: Luxury Rooted in Sustainability
The Cinnamon Habarana Complex is more than just accommodation—it is an ecological retreat deeply connected to its surroundings. Guests are immersed in a world where sustainable luxury meets the raw beauty of nature. The lodges prioritize eco-conscious living, featuring practices such as waste reduction, locally sourced cuisine, and community engagement.
From morning safaris to evening stargazing by the lake, the experience fosters a strong emotional and environmental connection between guests and the natural world. Every stay supports Cinnamon’s long-standing mission to promote biodiversity, reduce ecological footprints, and champion responsible travel across Sri Lanka.
The Gathering of Giants 2025 is more than a wildlife event—it is a celebration of nature, a call to protect it, and an invitation to be part of something truly extraordinary. For those seeking an inspiring, enriching, and ethical travel experience, Cinnamon Habarana awaits with open arms and wild wonders.
Ways to Travel
New cycle trail boosts adventure tourism in Mustang « Khabarhub
MUSTANG: An eight-kilometer cycle trail has been completed connecting Gharpajhong-4 Jomsom to Baragung Muktikshetra-5 Dharkajung in Mustang.
The Tourism and Industry Office, Mustang, confirmed that the trail was built with a budget of Rs 2 million to promote tourism and encourage longer tourist stays in the region.
Prem Poudel, Chief of the Tourism and Industry Office, explained that the trail was developed by upgrading an existing road and opening a new two-kilometer track. To support the route, two iron bridges were constructed over the Sukkawal and Gavin Wall sections along the Jomsom-Dharkajung path.
This new high-altitude mountain cycle trail offers tourists an adventurous alternative route, allowing cyclists to travel from Mustang to Dolpa via Dharkajung without using the traditional Jomsom-Kagbeni road.
Poudel highlighted that cyclists passing through Dhalkedanda, located approximately 4,000 meters above sea level, will be treated to spectacular natural beauty and panoramic views. From Dhalkedanda, visitors can see the Upper Mustang region, the Nepal-China border, as well as Lower and Central Mustang.
Along the trail, cyclists can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, the Kaligandaki corridor, local apple orchards, Jomsom town, and other scenic settlements visible from Dhalkedanda.
Ways to Travel
Exodus Adventure Travels Launches A “September to Remember”
Special Trips Offered During the Insider’s Season for Global Exploration
NEW YORK, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Exodus Adventure Travels, the award-winning leader in small-group guided travel, has unveiled its “September to Remember” program, highlighting special trips and the unmatched magic of the September travel season.
September is a travel sweet spot and a time many adventurers wait for all year. Temperatures mellow, crowds thin, and destinations reveal cultural gems, rare wildlife moments, and once-a-year festivals that are best experienced when the world slows down.
Recent research reveals travelers crave authentic, untouristed moments. Exodus Adventure Travels’ “September to Remember” promotion delivers just that: special tours, availability, and access to experiences that make September one of the most richly rewarding times to travel.
From the scenic vistas of Italy’s Amalfi Coast or the vineyard harvest rituals in France’s Loire Valley to the lantern-lit moon-viewing festivals in Japan, Exodus invites travelers to rediscover this season as a time of deep connection, golden light, and local celebrations that most visitors miss. Listed below are a few examples of special “September to Remember” trips and destinations:
France: Celebrate la vendange (the grape harvest) in full swing. Join brotherhoods of winemakers in the Loire Valley and take part in the torchlit Heritage Night in Saint-Émilion. Travel on the enlightening trip, “Loire Valley: Walks, Wine & Châteaux.”
Italy: Hike Amalfi’s iconic Path of the Gods in cooler air and dive into olive harvest season. If you prefer biking, cycle the unspoiled Cilento to the Amalfi Coast. See it all on “Walking the Amalfi Coast” or “Cycle Cilento & the Amalfi Coast.”
Portugal & Spain: Experience one of the most scenic trails of the Comino de Santiago while enjoying coastal towns along the way. Feel the thrill on this highly rated trip, “Cycle the Coastal Portuguese Camino.”
South Africa: It’s spring, and wildlife is thriving—from breaching whales off Hermanus to baby elephants and zebras around watering holes. Have memories of a lifetime on “South Africa: Walking and Wildlife” and on other Africa tours.
Vietnam: Golden rice terraces and festive celebrations around Independence Day await. Cycle through the rice paddies with local guides who know every hidden route on the favorite “Cycling Vietnam“ trip.
Japan: Watch temple lanterns glow under the full moon during Tsukimi and catch high-octane floats at the Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka. Experience it with local experts on “Ancient & Modern Japan” and other September trips to Asia.
Costa Rica: Discover Costa Rica’s greatest wildlife-watching secrets: the hidden animal hotspots of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Enjoy this special adventure on the “Costa Rica’s Coastal Secrets” tour.
Additional Reasons to Travel in September with Exodus Adventure Travels
- Insider Expertise: With more than 50 years of experience and deep local connections, Exodus gets travelers closer to the moments that matter—often ones only the locals know about.
- Beyond the Ordinary: Small group sizes and immersive itineraries mean fewer queues, more time, and deeper cultural understanding.
- The Comfort of Convenience: No need to spend endless hours researching the best places to see. Travelers can have the confidence and comfort knowing that Exodus’ expert teams and guides have carefully curated itineraries for the convenience of passengers.
- Travel That Matters: These small group tours support local economies year-round while offering a more relaxed, responsible adventure.
For more information about Exodus’ many adventures including cultural holidays, wildlife expeditions, scenic hiking trips, cycling tours, solo travel and the best last-minute getaways, please visit ExodusTravels.com.
About Exodus Adventure Travels
For more than 50 years Exodus Adventure Travels has been the leader in active hiking, biking, culture and wildlife adventures and is known for its commitment to “improve life through travel.” Exodus Adventure Travels is a winner of the National Geographic Traveler Reader Awards and is a recipient of the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award, Good Housekeeping’s Family Travel Award, Wanderlust Magazine’s Best Tour Leader of the Year, USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Award, and the Men’s Journal Travel Awards. This year, Exodus Adventure Travels also received the coveted Global Vision Award from Travel & Leisure.
Exodus Adventure Travels is a certified B Corporation (B Corp), further demonstrating its commitment to improve life through travel, dedicated to creating incredible, community-driven adventures, and understands the importance of nature and wildlife conservation through programs such as rewilding and partnering with scientists to restore biodiversity.
Exodus Adventure Travels is part of Travelopia, the world’s largest collection of experiential travel brands. Travelopia’s more than 20 award-winning travel brands lead the way in creating unique experiences for guests around the world. To learn more about Exodus Adventure Travels and the company’s adventures visit ExodusTravels.com, or follow the company on social @ExodusTravels.
SOURCE Exodus Adventure Travels
Ways to Travel
Camp Chevrah Day Travel Enjoys Adventure, Energy And Endless Fun
Camp Chevrah Day Travel girls kicked off another unforgettable week packed with energy, excitement, and nonstop adventure! Monday began with the Wibbits at Darlington Beach—a floating obstacle course that had the girls laughing, climbing, and diving all morning long.
Tuesday turned up the intensity with a full-body workout on the water—kayaking! The girls paddled hard and showed off their strength and teamwork as they powered through the lake.
By Wednesday, it was time to cool off! The girls headed to Dave & Buster’s for some arcade fun and then laced up their skates for a super fun afternoon on the ice.
Thursday brought a splash of excitement at the American Dream Waterpark, where the girls zipped down slides and rode the waves with huge smiles and high energy.
To wrap it all up, Friday brought them to Power Up—an interactive arcade that had everyone cheering, playing, and racking up the points to finish the week strong.
Slurpees and Carvel were delicious treats the campers enjoyed this week, adding a sweet touch to the fun-filled days.
Camp Chevrah Travel is all about big adventures and warm friendships. Girls entering grades 5—9 enjoy a fresh, exciting trip every single day! Campers experience the thrill of travel with the comfort of a day camp.
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