Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 1872 listings.
Birla Mandir Temple (Lakshmi Narayan)
Officially known as the Laxminarayan Temple in honor of the god Vishnu (the preserver in the Hindu trinity) and his consort Lakshmi, the beautiful Birla Mandir complex centers around one of the most significant temples in the Indian capital. Though built in the 1930s, it remains one of the finest local examples of modern temple architecture.
The Basics
Spread out over seven acres (three hectares), this large temple complex was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi himself in 1939, and was groundbreaking for its time in that it allowed people of all castes and backgrounds to enter. Although the main 3-story temple is dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi, it features shrines to numerous deities, including Shiva and the Buddha. The grounds are a fun place for families, with large plaster animals that are big enough for kids (or small adults) to climb on.
Birla Mandir is a popular stop on many group and private Delhi tours, particularly those focused on temples and religious sites. Some time their visits to coincide with the morning and evening aarti, a traditional Hindu ritual.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Birla Nadir is a must for lovers of religious and temple architecture.
- Photography is not allowed inside the temples but is permitted in the surrounding gardens.
- Secure lockers are available by the main entrance.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Birla Mandir is located about a 10-minute drive or auto-rickshaw ride west of New Delhi’s Connaught Place. The closest metro stop, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, is a 20-minute walk away. Generally it’s easiest to visit by taxi or as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
The Birla Mandir complex is open daily from 4:30am to 1:30pm and 2:30pm to 9pm. Like all Delhi attractions, it’s often more pleasant to spend time here during the cooler winter months. Especially if you’re visiting in the hot season (particularly May and June), you may want to get up early or visit after sunset to avoid the heat—and to catch an aarti ceremony.
The Birla Family Legacy
This temple (or mandir) is the oldest of many similarly named and equally grand Birla Mandirs built by one of India’s most prominent industrial families, the Birlas. Although there are Birla Mandirs dedicated to a variety of deities—from Shiva, the destroyer in the Hindu trinity, to the goddess of learning and music, Sarasvati—a good number are dedicated to Lakshmi Narayan, including the landmark Birla Mandir in Jaipur.
Address: New Delhi, India
From $ 15
Ahsan Manzil
Once the official residence of the Nawab family, this stately red structure was built in the mid-to-late 1800s. This stunning palace was damaged and abandoned after a tornado hit in 1888. Khwaja Abdul Gani and his son worked tirelessly to resurrect and reconstruct the structures that were deemed too dangerous to inhabit, which resulted in the birth of what is today, designated as a national museum.
Widely recognized as one of the most significant architectural icons in the nation, the palace is divided into two parts known as the eastern and western sides. Its unique octagonal dome serves as the apex of the palace and is considered to be the structure’s most significant feature. Locals say it was designed to look like the bud of a lotus flower. Travelers will find an incredible collection of photos of the palace’s 23 rooms taken in its hay day on display, as well as family portraits and other Nawab artifacts.
Practical Info
The former residence is located at Kumartoli on the banks of the Buriganga River. Admission is TK 75 per person. The palace is open from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Saturday through Wednesday and 2:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. on Fridays between October and March. From April to September the palace is open 10:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Saturday through Wednesday and 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Fridays.
Address: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Hours: Varies
Admission: TK 75
From $ 75
21_21 Design Sight
Located in Tokyo Midtown within the city’s Art Triangle Roppongi, 21_21 Design Sight opened to the public in 2007 as a museum and exhibit space dedicated to all forms of visual design. The major art venue, housed within a concrete and glass structure, was the work of Pritzker Prize winner Ando Tadao in partnership with fashion designer Issey Miyake.
The name, inspired by the English term “20/20 vision,” was chosen to express the aim of the museum to generate and inspire forward-looking design. The museum houses rotating exhibitions and regularly hosts talks and workshops.
Practical Info
21_21 Design Sight is closed on Tuesdays and can be reached by taking the Oedo Line to Roppongi Station.
Address: Tokyo, Kanto 〒107-6290, Japan
From $ 89
Binh Tay Market
At the heart of Cho Lon, Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinese district, the central Binh Tay Market is a popular spot among visitors and tour groups thanks to the backdrop of picturesque French-Chinese architecture. The modern market was built in 1928 after the original burned down. A Chinese businessman Quach Dam funded the reconstruction, and you can find a memorial to him at the center of the market. The ornate statue of Quach Dam that was the market’s original centerpiece now resides at the Fine Art Museum. Binh Tay is Ho Chi Minh City’s largest market, comprising four city blocks. During a visit here, you can peruse a mind-boggling array of wares, everything from pottery and flowers to cheap souvenirs, noodle stalls and vendors selling bulk rice and wholesale produce.
Practical Info
Binh Tay Market is located in the southwest of the city, a 17-minute drive from Dong Khoi and 35 minutes from Tan Son Nhat Airport. The market is open throughout the day, but the best time to visit is in the morning.
Address: 57 Tháp Mười, 2, Quận 6, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Hours: Daily, hours vary
From $ 9
Abeno Harukas
At 984 feet tall (300 m), Abeno Harukas takes the coveted superlative of Japan's highest skyscraper, narrowly rising above the former title holder, the Yokohama Landmark Tower. It serves as a railway terminal for Osaka's Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line.
The name Abeno Harukas translates to a phrase meaning "to brighten, to clear up," symbolizing the unobstructed view visitors will see from the top. The behemoth skyscraper boasts over 300,000 square feet of floor space which house offices, commercial shops, restaurants, a hotel, a museum, a garden, and a three-story observatory on the top floors. Osaka visitors will be delighted by the view from the observation deck at night, especially, when the city is lit up below.
Practical Info
The Abeno Harukas Skyscraper is located in Osaka's southern commercial district. Visitors will need to purchase a ticket to access the 60th floor observation deck, but the 16th floor air garden is free.
Address: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka, Japan
Hours: 10am–8:30pm daily
From $ 13
Agra Fort
Within a stone’s throw of the Taj Mahal, the 16th-century Agra Fort serves as another testament to the immense wealth and power of the Mughal Empire. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, the Agra Fort was initially built by Akbar in 1565 on the same site as a previous fort on the banks of the Yamuna River. A succession of a half-dozen other emperors, including Humayun and Shah Jahan, has lived within the red sandstone walls.
While called a fort, the structures enclosed within 1.6 miles (2.5 km) of thick sandstone walls are more akin to a complex of exquisite palaces. Evidence of Shah Jahan’s time spent in the fort can be seen in the white marble structures he erected during his reign, and according to legend, he drew his last breaths on a marble balcony overlooking the Taj Mahal, the monument he built for his late wife.
As you pass through Amar Singh Gate into Agra Fort, you’ll see that the interior houses several smaller palaces, including the Jahangiri Mahal where the royal women lived, and Khas Mahal, where Shah Jahan made his residence. The beautifully worked Mussaman Burj tower was where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son for the last seven years of his life.
Practical Info
Agra Fort is located in Agra, about 1.5 miles north of the Taj Mahal. The site is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and entrance costs between 10 and 500 Rs. Children under the age of 15 enter for free.
Address: Agra Fort, Agra, India
Hours: Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Admission: Between 10 and 500 Rs. Children under the age of 15 enter for free.
From $ 8
Bintang Walk
To truly feel the pulse of Kuala Lumpur, plan to spend a few hours walking one of its busiest streets, Bintang Walk. Located in the heart of Bukit Bintang, a neighborhood with the highest concentration of shopping outlets in the city, Bintang Walk runs along the area’s main artery, Jalan Bukit Bintang, but has come to encompass the surrounding area as well.
While the shopping scene is what initially attracted tourists and locals to the area, Bintang Walk has grown beyond a mere commercial center. There’s plenty of shopping to be done, but the streets here are also lined with cafes, hip nightclubs, eateries and vendors serving up just about anything one could want. This is also one of the best areas in the city to find Arabian food.
While Bintang Walk is buzzing throughout the week, weekend evenings are the prime time to see the area at its peak of activity, as a mixture of local youth and foreign tourists congregate to shop, eat, drink, see and be seen.
Practical Info
Bintang Walk is a popular area near Kuala Lumpur’s center with its own metro station.
Address: Bintang Walk, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hours: Daily
From $ 41
Adlabs Imagica
Adlabs Imagica, located outside of Mumbai, is an international standard theme park with 21 rides and attractions spread across various themed zones. Adrenaline junkies have three coasters to choose from, including India’s biggest roller coaster as well as a space-themed dark coaster. The park also has a vertical drop ride and a giant rotating pendulum to satisfy thrill seekers.
Bumper boats, spinning tea cups, dark rides, a flume and a 4D motion simulator cater to visitors of all ages, while little ones will find their own selection of pint-sized attractions. In-park dining options include everything from an Indian buffet to an American diner. Adlabs Imagica is also home to a waterpark and India’s largest snow park.
Practical Info
For an additional fee, you can take an air-conditioned bus directly to the park and back from Mumbai, Pune or Thane.
Address: Khopoli-Pali Road, SH 92, Mumbai 410206, India
Hours: 9:30am to 8pm
Admission: 1,999 rupee
From $ 17
Big Lagoon
With its limestone cliffs, emerald green waters, and craggy karst formations, the Big Lagoon can almost seem fake—too beautiful to possibly be real. This isn’t some tropical dream, however, but an actual place with a placid lagoon that’s perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
From the moment you enter the Big Lagoon on an island hopping tour from El Nido, the rest of the world seems to fade away, unable to penetrate the cliffs, and there’s a moment of stillness, serenity, and calm as smooth as the tropical waters. If you choose to jump off the boat for a swim when visiting the Big Lagoon, take a second to look back at your boat and notice how small and toy-like it appears at the base of the towering cliffs. Everything here is grandiose, and it’s little wonder why the Big Lagoon is considered one of the most scenic spots in El Nido, the Philippines, and the world.
Insider's Tip: The water looks dark when you enter the lagoon, but the rich green waters are actually very clear—particularly when visiting in winter.
Practical Info
The Big Lagoon is on Miniloc Island and one of the stops on “Tour A.” El Nido’s tourist routes are regulated by the government, and are designed to help with overcrowding and protecting the natural resources. December-March is the best time of year to visit the Big Lagoon, with the wettest months being June-August, which are prone to heavy rains. Crowds can definitely be lighter, however, if you visit El Nido in the off-season.
Address: Big Lagoon, El Nido, Philippines
From $ 32
Adalaj Stepwell
This striking Hindu water building located in the quiet village of Adjalaj was constructed in 1499 and stretches five stories deep. Built by a Muslim king for Queen Rani Roopba, this top religious attraction was once the site of holy rituals and brightly colored festivals, and served as not only relief from droughts, but a destination for saints and holy pilgrims.
Travelers who visit the stepwell will get not only an up-close look at Gujarat culture and tradition, but also a taste of iconic Indo-Islamic architecture, complete with ornate carvings, detailed decorations and nods to religious gods and deities.
Practical Info
The stepwell is located about 18 kilometers north of the city of Ahmedabad, approximately 5 kilometers from the capital of Gujarat. The city is accessible by rail and roadway, making it an easy visit for travelers. Locals say early morning crowds are sparse, making it an ideal time to visit.
Address: Adalaj, Gujarat 382421, India
From $ 32
Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)
Part museum, part gallery, part cultural space, Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) is the liveliest and most diverse of Ubud’s big three art galleries. Set in a vibrant garden, rooms of note include owner Agung Rai’s modern Balinese art collection and works by German artist Walter Spies and Dutch painter Rudolf Bonnet.
The Basics
Near the heart of downtown Ubud, ARMA is easy enough to visit independently, whether on foot, by driving, or with a professional driver or tour guide. Tours typically bundle it with other Ubud cultural attractions—the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary or alternative Indonesian galleries, such as Neka Art Museum and Puri Lukisan Museum. The traditional Balinese dance performances held here on many evenings are some of Ubud’s best and worth arranging tickets for in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Founder Agung Rai and members of his family still sometimes roam the museum.
- Out of Ubud's big three museums—the others are Neka and Puri Lukisan—ARMA is the No. 1 pick for the thoughtful traveler.
- The ARMA museum complex includes a cafe, a store, and resort.
- The “kecak” dance held here on full and new moons is one of Bali’s best.
How to Get There
Set on sprawling grounds in Pengosekan, not far from the bottom of Monkey Forest Road, the Agung Rai Museum of Art is walking distance from central Ubud and other Ubud attractions. From south Bali, the Kura-Kura tourist bus provides the most cost-effective route to Ubud, although many travelers choose to self-drive or hire a driver.
When to Get There
The ARMA museum and cultural center is open year-round, with the exception of the Nyepi "Day of Silence" closure and national holidays. The pavilions are large, as are the grounds, so it’s rarely crowded. Visit during the day to experience the spectacular Balinese painting collection; come by during the evenings for traditional Balinese dance performances in one of Ubud’s most striking settings.
The Art of Walter Spies
ARMA is the best place in Indonesia to see the work of Walter Spies. Prewar Russian-born German painter Walter Spies arrived in Ubud in 1927. His primitivist style and topics, such as rice terraces, had a huge influence on Balinese painting. He also helped Balinese artists form associations and guilds to promote their work to Indonesia and the world.
Address: Jalan Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayanta)
Built in 652, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayanta) is one of Xi’an’s oldest structures. While its form follows the typical pagoda style of several successive levels, it lacks the decorative frills typically associated with such buildings in China. Within you’ll find Buddha statues and religious relics brought from India along the Silk Road.
The Basics
The stone Big Wild Goose Pagoda is one of Xi’an’s most notable landmarks, and it’s almost always included in city sightseeing tours around the ancient city. It’s usually visited along with other Xi’an attractions, such as the Terracotta Warriors in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Xi’an City Wall, Muslim Quarter, and the Bell Tower.
Within the structure, a spiral staircase leads up to an overlook with a panoramic view of the city. Visitors pressed for time in China who still want to see this and other Xi’an highlights can do so with a day trip by air from either Beijing or Shanghai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The pagoda is a must-see for first-time visitors and travelers with an interest in Chinese or religious architecture.
- Visitors must pay an entrance fee to Da Ci’en Temple, as well as a separate fee to climb the pagoda.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to climb the pagoda tower.
How to Get There
Several public buses stop at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, but the easiest way to get there is to take the Xi’an Metro to either Dayanta or Xiaozhai stations. The latter is about a 10-minute walk from the pagoda.
When to Get There
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is open daily throughout the year. For the best weather for enjoying this and other outdoor attractions in town, plan to visit from March to May or September to October.
Da Ci’en Temple
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda sits on the grounds of Da Ci’en Temple. While the grounds of the Buddhist temple are much smaller than their original size, they still exceed 12 acres (5 hectares). Xi’an’s Drum Tower and Bell Tower sit to either side of the entrance, with a series of structures running along its central axis, including the Hall of Mahavira, Sermon Hall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Hall of Xuanzang Sanzang.
Address: China
From $ 18
Bitexco Financial Tower
With nearly 70 floors, this towering modern glass and metal structure is the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City and the third tallest in Vietnam. While the majority of Bitexco Financial Tower is dedicated business and commercial use, it’s also home to the city’ first heli-pad, a world-class restaurant and an observation deck that offers up some of the most impressive views of the city.
Travelers can purchase tickets to the skydeck, or hop aboard the high-speed elevator to the 50th and 52nd floor, where a bar and coffee shop showcase 360-degree spectacular views of city streets, rivers, and Ho Chi Minh architecture—free of charge—to those willing to buy a beverage as they relax and unwind.
Practical Info
The tower is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh’s financial center. Stationed at Nguyen Hue, it’s easily accessible via the Saigon Bridge, Thu Thiem Tunnel and a short drive from Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
Address: 45 Ngo Duc Ke, District 1, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Admission: Charge for Skydeck
From $ 9
63 City
63 City, sometimes also called “the golden tower” or 63 Building, is one of the tallest buildings in Korea and sits on Yeouido Island. One part of the name is true - due to the gold tinted glass, the whole structure tends to glitter in a beautiful rose gold hue during the day. However, the skyscraper only has 60 floors above ground, the remaining three are an underground restricted area. 63 City is anything but an ordinary skyscraper though. Apart from the dazzling views that can be had from the observation deck on the 60th floor, locals and tourists alike will find the inside of the building filled to the brim by a big selection of fun activities and attractions.
There are several main attractions inside the buildings, including Sea World, a wax museum, an IMAX theatre, Sky Art and the Fanta-Stick performance. The latter is a Korean music show that takes elements of traditional Korean performance arts and gives them a modern twist. The result is a fantasy-like percussion performance mixing martial arts, break dancing and Samullori with heavy drums. At Sea World, visitors can discover over 400 marine species, including adorable African penguins and electric eels able to power lights. Sky Art is an art gallery that was named highest art gallery in the world and a place where visitors can enjoy various exhibitions with a great view. The wax museum isn’t your ordinary wax museum either and instead, the venue hands out costumes so you can pose with your favorite celebrities adequately dressed. It also hosts a terrifying chamber of horror. The final attraction promises “walking on a cloud” and a top class dining experience in Korea’s highest restaurant.
Practical Info
63 City is located in Yeouido right by the Hangang River. To get there, take subway line 5 to Yeouinaru station and take exit number 4. From there you can either walk the remaining 15 minutes or take one of the free shuttle busses.
Address: 50 63-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 9
Aberdeen Harbour
The quaint Aberdeen fishing village is famous for its picturesque harbor, where local Tanka boat people live on houseboats, junks, and sampans lashed together in messy rows and bobbing in the water in the shadow of modern skyscrapers. Situated between Hong Kong Island and smaller Ap Lei Chau, Aberdeen Harbour is home to one of Hong Kong’s most famous seafood restaurants (and one of the largest floating restaurants in the world), Jumbo Kingdom.
The Basics
Many half- and full-day sightseeing tours of Hong Kong stop in Aberdeen. A popular way to experience the harbor is on a sampan ride through the trawlers and junks of the floating village. By night, travelers can dine at Jumbo Kingdom, which looks more like a Chinese palace than a restaurant, after a sunset cruise on Victoria Harbour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The fishing village is a must-see for first-time visitors to Hong Kong.
- Sampan tours of the harbor last 25 to 30 minutes. If you haven’t booked a tour in advance, be prepared to negotiate a rate.
- Hong Kong city tours that stop in Aberdeen typically last four to eight hours, depending on the option chosen.
- Aberdeen is a regular stop on hop on, hop off bus tours.
How to Get to Aberdeen Harbour
To get to Aberdeen, take the MTR to Wong Chuk Hang station and leave through Exit B; it’s a short walk from there to Shum Wan Pier. Alternately, catch Bus 7 from the Central Ferry Piers, Bus 70 from Exchange Square, Bus 72 or 77 from Causeway Bay, or Bus 973 from Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon.
When to Get There
For the best weather—sunny but not too hot—plan to visit between October and March. During the fifth lunar month (usually May or June), Aberdeen Harbour hosts the annual Dragon Boat Festival, when colorful racing boats fill the water and spectators munch on sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves.
Things to Do Near Aberdeen Harbour
Aberdeen is located on the south side of Hong Kong Island, where travelers will find plenty of other worthy attractions. Families traveling with kids will find amusements for all ages, including roller coasters, water rides, and animal exhibits at Ocean Park. The beaches of nearby Repulse Bay make for a serene escape from the bustle of Hong Kong, and shoppers won’t want to miss the bargains in Stanley Market.
Address: Aberdeen Promenade, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 40
Binlang Ethnic Village
Located in the heart of Hainan Island, about 40 minutes outside of Sanya, this former ethnic village has been transformed into a cultural park where visitors can learn about the traditional lifestyle of Hainan’s rural Li and Miao communities. Craftspeople demonstrate their skills in recreated old-style huts, while local villagers stage an outdoor dance production.
Two on-site museums display traditional Li and Miao clothing, arts and crafts. Should you see something you like, you’ll find numerous souvenir shops (bargaining accepted) with arts and crafts for sale. Electric cars ferry visitors to various points of interest within the village — a welcome amenity when feet start to feel tired.
Practical Info
Weekends at Binlang Ethnic Village can get crowded. If possible, plan your visit for a weekday instead.
Address: Ganshiling Nature Reserve, Sanya 572000, China
Hours: 9am-5pm
Admission: 160 RMB
From $ 50
55 Window Palace
Built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1754, the stunning 55 Window Palace in one of the Kathmandu Valley’s most iconic landmarks and a destination for travelers venturing to the famed Bhaktapur Dubar Square. Although locals are quick to talk about an earthquake that devastated and destroyed much of the original structure—and in fact kept the palace closed to the public for some 22 years—visitors will today find the impressive structure mostly-open thanks to a Rs. 2.18 billion renovation and truly worthy of a visit.
Visitors can explore the incredible collection of ancient statues tucked among the remarkable architecture of the 55 Window Palace, which includes a 10-armed representation of the goddess Taleju Bhawani. Travelers should wander along the Golden Gate and journey into one of the former courtyards as well during a visit to this beautiful place.
Practical Info
The palace is located at the center of Bhaktapur Dubar Square. Entrance to the palace is included in the cost of a ticket to Bhaktapur, but travelers will need to pay 100 rupees to enter the museum.
Address: Bhaktapur Dubar Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal
Admission: Museum: 100 rupees
From $ 91
798 Art Zone
Located in northwest Beijing, 798 Art Zone occupies a decommissioned military factory from the 1950s that now houses an edgy artistic community. The Communist-era factories and warehouses of the complex have all been converted into galleries, studios, boutique shops and cafes whose modern and sometimes whimsical contents sit in stark contrast to the austere Bauhaus architecture.
Give yourself at least half a day to explore the 798 Art Zone. Start with the eclectic collection of sculptures, photographs and paintings at the Long March Space, one of the best collections in the area. Other notable galleries include the Chinese Contemporary with its politically minded collection, the 798 Photo Gallery and 798 Space, one of the largest galleries in the area.
Read up on art history at the well-stocked Time Zone 8 bookstore before stopping in at one of the cafes and restaurants in the district for lunch or a cup of coffee. If possible, time your visit to the 798 Art Festival in spring or the 798 Creative Art Festival in fall.
Give yourself at least half a day to explore the 798 Art Zone. Start with the eclectic collection of sculptures, photographs and paintings at the Long March Space, one of the best collections in the area. Other notable galleries include the Chinese Contemporary with its politically minded collection, the 798 Photo Gallery and 798 Space, one of the largest galleries in the area.
Read up on art history at the well-stocked Time Zone 8 bookstore before stopping in at one of the cafes and restaurants in the district for lunch or a cup of coffee. If possible, time your visit to the 798 Art Festival in spring or the 798 Creative Art Festival in fall.
Address: 798 Art Zone, No.4 Jiuxianqiao Rd., Chaoyang, Beijing, China
Hours: Open Daily: 10am - 5pm.
From $ 27
Abatan River
The Abatan River in Bohol winds its way through the town of Antequera to the town of Balilihan for an estimated length of 12 miles (20 kilometers). In the past, before the roads were developed in this area, the river served as a waterway for local people to reach the towns.
These days, the government has opened up Abatan River to the eco-tourism trade, with kayak and boat trips allowing visitors to explore the lush green scenery that the river has to offer. However, one of the most fascinating highlights of the Abatan River occurs at night, when a dazzling light show courtesy of thousands of fireflies illuminates the night sky. This spectacle has long been known to the locals, and it is only in recent years that visitors from other parts of the country and the world have come to witness it.
An evening firefly watching tour will navigate you through the mangroves to witness one of nature’s most incredible shows. Ideal for couples, private river cruises are available and often include a romantic dinner.
Practical Info
There is an Abatan River visitors center located in Cortes for more information about the history and wildlife of the river.
Did You Know? The Abatan River is one of Bohol’s three main rivers and serves as the main drainage system in the area.
Address: Abatan River, Bohol, Philippines
From $ 40
Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple & Museum
Often referred to simply as the Birla Mandir, the Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple is a striking white marble Hindu temple in Jaipur. The modern edifice—built in 1988 with an adjacent museum—is dedicated to the god Vishnu (the Preserver) and his consort Lakshmi, and features idols of the two deities carved from a single piece of marble.
The Basics
Open to visitors of all faiths, this peaceful temple features marble carvings of various gods and historical figures, from Jesus Christ to Socrates. Unusual for a Hindu temple, the Birla Mandir contains stained glass windows depicting scenes from Indian mythology. There is also a small museum containing personal items from the wealthy Birla family, who are behind the temple’s construction.
Most group and private Jaipur tours (including half-day and full-day tours as well as Golden Triangle tours that also visit Delhi and Agra) stop at the Birla Mandir.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Birla Mandir is ideal for those with an interest in architecture and Hindu traditions.
- Out of respect, cover your knees and shoulders before entering the temple.
- Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
How to Get There
The Birla Mandir is located right below the Moti Dungri Fort, about a 15-minute drive from Jaipur’s City Palace and Pink City, and 10 minutes by car from Albert Hall. There’s plenty of parking here (for a small fee) just outside of the temple. Some visitors combine their visit with a stop at a popular Ganesh temple next door.
When to Get There
This temple is open throughout the year, from 6am in the summer season and 6:30am in the winter. It closes for a few hours each day around lunchtime, then for the night around 8:30pm. A lovely time to visit is first thing in the morning, when crowds are thin and the bright-white temple complex is wonderfully photogenic—it can appear overexposed if shot under the midday sun.
Makrana Marble
Many of India’s temples, hotels, and even some homes are full of beautiful white marble, much of it sourced from Rajasthan. Makrana produces the best-known white marble, which was used in a number of famous buildings including the Birla Mandir in Jaipur, the Victoria Memorial of Kolkata, and India’s most iconic attraction, the Taj Mahal.
Address: J Nehru Marg, Jaipur, India
From $ 13