The beautiful hilly state of Uttarakhand in Northern India, also called 'Devbhoomi' or 'Abode of the Gods,' owes its name to the presence of 60 temples dedicated to the revered Lord Shiva on its sacred land. Each of these temples is steeped in mythology and folklore, mysticism and magic, and interesting anecdotes from the Puranas* that help reiterate the belief that these temples stand for, an unshakeable, unwavering faith in the almighty Lord Shiva, the invincible. What is Special about Tungnath and Panch Kedar Tungnath temple belongs to the group of 'Panch Kedar Temples' or 5 Kedar temples. As per popular folklore, the Pandavas, the gallant and righteous five princes of Indraprastha, defeated their deceitful one hundred cousins, the Kaurvas, in a fierce and bloody battle of Kurukshetra. After the war, the Pandavas wanted to atone for their sin of fratricide (the sin of killing one's kin). They worshipped Lord Shiva and sought his forgiveness, but Shiva wanted them to undergo penance for their deeds and cleanse themselves of their sins. When Pandavas reached Varanasi at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the abode of Lord Shiva, he disguised himself as a bull to avoid the Pandavas and hid himself in the Garhwal Himalayas. This place came to be known as Guptkashi, Gupt meaning hidden and Kashi, the city of Shiva. Lord Shiva reappeared as a bull in the Himalayan region. Bheema, the most powerful of the Pandava brothers, was looking for Lord Shiva. He spotted the bull and recognised it as Lord Shiva. But the bull vanished and reappeared in five parts at five different locations, namely Kedarnath, where the hump appeared, the arms appeared in Tungnath, the face in Rudranath, the navel in Madhyamaheshwar and the hair in Kalpeshwar. The Pandavas built temples in all these 5 locations to seek the forgiveness and blessings of Lord Shiva. All 5 temples of Panch Kedar are located in the same region and cover a total mountain trek of about 170 km. It takes about 15 to 21 days to cover all these temples in one go. Rudranath is considered to be the toughest of all these 5 mountainous treks. How to Reach Tungnath, the highest Shiva Temple in the World Tungnath temple, located at an altitude of 12,070 feet above sea level, is the highest Shiva temple in the world! There is a scenic pass through the hills, 3.5 kilometres long, that will take you right up to the temple's entrance. 3.5 km sounds quite doable, but the steep incline and the high altitude can be challenging for some people. The walk uphill starts on a cobbled path from the nearest town of Chopta. The winding pass passes through beautiful meadows and scenic valleys. Ponies are also easily available if you do not wish to walk. Things to Know Before Visiting Tungnath The trek to the top of the hill is only 3.5 km, but it's quite steep uphill. If you're not up for walking all the way uphill, then you should opt for a pony. The high altitude can cause breathing discomfort in some people. You must carry camphor tablets to ease breathing on your way up. There is very limited infrastructure en route to the temple. There is just one or two small shacks selling basic snacks and drinks. Unlike many other popular shrines, there are no covered sheds or resting places along the way. You should carry an umbrella if the weather forecast is cloudy. Also, carry drinking water for the journey. Most importantly, start early in the morning. The trek is even, but there is no lighting throughout the route. It was pitch dark by the time we came downhill. It would help if you carried a torch to see the route. We had to depend on the torchlight of our phone to get back safely. 1.5 km further from the Tungnath temple is Chandrashila, a viewpoint that offers unobstructed and glorious views of the Himalayas, Nandadevi, and Kedar Peak. If you have the zeal and energy to walk up another 1.5 km, you should not miss it. We visited Tungnath in October 2024. The journey was every bit memorable. I'm sharing some pictures of our journey. The route to the temple was very scenic, as we went through lush green valleys and meadows.... Last leg of the journey.... Entrance gate of the temple... First look of the temple complex... The valley around the temple at dusk... The trek is plunged into darkness by the time we set forth on our return journey... *Puranas are Hindu religious texts that are part of the Vedas. There are 18 Puranas in all, that deal with exhaustive information on many subjects like theology, cosmology, religion, astronomy and medicine among others. Puranas use religious symbolism and fables to carry their message.

Point Clark lies at a distance of about 230 kilometres from Toronto. Our 3-hour drive followed a scenic route through the Ontario countryside on the 401 Highway. This blog will give you all the relevant information on how to get to Point Clark from Toronto and the things you need to know before you do that. 401 is an 828-kilometre-long toll-free highway that runs from Windsor in the west to the Ontario-Quebec border on the east coast of Canada. All along the highway, after about every 60 kilometres, are convenience stops called ONROUTE. They serve as pitstops to refuel your vehicles and take toilet breaks, grab a bite at some of Canada's popular food chains and drink a hot beverage. As we were driving past the Kitchener-Waterloo region, we came across the Township of Woolwich. Normally, one wouldn't remember the names of rural townships in the countryside, but this one caught my attention. What I saw looked like a movie scene, a period drama set in the early 18th century. I saw families sitting atop horse-driven carriages, children dressed in formal attires and women wearing trimmed hats. We saw them collect near the local church for the Sunday Mass. Woolwich, I learnt later, is home to the largest Mennonite population in Canada and their settlement is called Amish Country. The Amish people are members of a protestant Christian group who immigrated to Canada in the early 18th Century. Their religious beliefs shun the use of modern technology, motorised vehicles and even the use of electricity in their homes. I found this entire region very intriguing and worth a mention here. As we approached Point Clark and set our eyes on Lake Huron, it looked dazzling with its deep blue colour. Geographically speaking, it's the second largest of the Great Lakes namely Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, and is the fourth largest lake in the world! The deep blue water owes its colour to the sediment of the lake brought to the surface by the churning action of the strong winds in the region. The best time to visit is undoubtedly summer when the waters are relatively warm. It's an ideal getaway for families with kids who love their little outdoor adventures. The water is safe for swimming and taking boat rides. Rental options offer motor boats, pontoon boats, jet skis and wave runners with flexible renting options on an hourly, daily and weekly basis depending on your requirements. The quaint lakefront cottage community of Point Clark is dotted with beautiful cottages along the lake shore. At the point where the land ends lies Point Clark Lighthouse, an 80-foot structure made of pristine white limestone that seems to have descended straight from the old mystical lands of sailors and sea monsters. Point Clark Lighthouse was built between 1855 and 1859 and is still a functional lighthouse. It has been declared as a National Historic Site. The lighthouse opens daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Tours of the lighthouse are available, the most intriguing being the Sunset Tour. You can refer to the official website for more information on tours and activities in the area at https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/clark. Most cottages in the lakefront community have a bonfire where you can light a fire in the calmness of the night against the backdrop of the mild rustling sound of the waters of Lake Huron. If you're lucky to be there on a clear day, don't forget to look up at the night sky...it will be lit by the millions of stars staring down at you!

The beautiful mountain town of Whistler is a haven for sports enthusiasts, and a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver is a must-do activity. In winter, the town sees tourists flocking to it for skiing and snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America. In summer, the town comes alive with activities like mountain biking and hiking. And the not-to-miss Peak-2-Peak Gondola that plies between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. If you have just a day in Whistler in summer, then this gondola ride should be at the top of your itinerary. How to Travel from Vancouver to Whistler Whistler lies at a distance of 121 kilometres from Vancouver. The best way to get to Whistler is by bus from Vancouver, which will take about 2 hours and will go through the scenic Sea-to-Sky highway. If you're driving, then keep some extra time on hand to stop at the beautiful scenic spots along the way. A luxury train called 'Rocky Mountaineer' also runs between the two cities on scheduled days and offers panoramic views of the Fraser Valley and the mountains and forests of Alberta and British Columbia. But it's expensive both in terms of money and time since it takes 12 hours to cover the distance. How to Spend a Day in Whistler in Summer We started very early from Vancouver since we had just a day in Whistler. Buses ply at regular intervals, but it's best to buy tickets in advance, especially during the peak season. We reached Whistler within two hours through the scenic Sea-to-Sky highway. The town is small and has an old-world charm to it. Whistler is a walkable city; you can easily go on foot around restaurants and the marketplace. The day was sunny and bright, and we wanted to make the most of it, so we headed straight for the gondola ride. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola One of the absolute highlights of visiting Whistler in summer is riding the famous Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which connects Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain and offers spectacular views of forests, lakes and snow-capped peaks. Tips for Visiting the Peak 2 Peak Gondola Allow at least 3 hours for the entire experience. Carry a light jacket even in summer. There are 3 gondola rides in all: the Whistler Village gondola, Blackcomb Gondola and Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The 436-metre-high Peak 2 Peak gondola is a cable car connecting Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. It has held the Guinness World Record for being the highest of its kind gondola. You should keep aside at least two hours for the entire gondola experience. Buy the Peak 2 Peak 360-degree Experience ticket. This will give you access to all three gondola rides. At 4 kilometres long, it is also one of the longest lift systems in the world. The ride between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains is an 11-minute journey. One gets to see stunning alpine scenery through the gondola... My parting tip to anyone planning to do a day trip to Whistler is that the Peak 2 Peak Gondola will take up a good amount of your one day in Whistler, although theoretically it's a 3-hour activity. If you really wish to explore Whistler at leisure, then you should plan at least 2 or more days. With two days in hand, you could explore the Whistler Village, and walk around Lost Lake with its beautiful nature walks and biking trails. If you're driving, then you must plan to stop at Shannon Falls on the way betwen Vancouver and Whistler.

Let me start by saying that Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is picture-perfect. It's located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Olympic Mountains. The city is renowned for its vibrant art scene, culture, international cuisine, beautiful parks, a plethora of outdoor activities and an unmistakable old-world charm by way of its colonial architecture, which has been very well preserved. In this blog, you will get all the useful information about planning the perfect day trip to Victoria BC from Vancouver. Best Way to Travel from Vancouver to Victoria BC There are many ways to travel from Vancouver to Victoria BC, you can fly, go by bus, ferry or take a seaplane. Some more luxurious options like V2V are also available for travelling between these two cities. We took a BC Ferry, which is quite a popular option since you can drive straight onto the ferry parking in your vehicle. There is a ferry every two hours, so availability is not an issue. You must book your tickets in advance, though. Also, the ferry is spacious, there are eateries, washrooms, a play area for kids and an open deck with seating. The ride lasts 90 minutes from the Tsawwassen Terminal to the Swartz Bay Terminal in Victoria. The ride is fun, and your sightseeing will begin from here as the ferry sails past a beautiful coastline over the Strait of Georgia in the Salish Sea. Once you reach Victoria, plan to stroll around the stunning waterfront before heading on to any activity. See the entire city come alive here, no words are needed to describe this .... This was our second trip to Victoria. After having visited the city twice, both times on a day trip from Vancouver, I've concluded that we should have ideally kept aside at least two to three days in the city. Things to Do in Victoria in a Day Whale Watching Cruises in Victoria Victoria is one of the best places in British Columbia for whale watching tours. Cruises departing from the Inner Harbour take visitors into the Salish Sea, where it is possible to spot orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, seals and sea lions depending on the season. Useful Tips for Whale-Watching Cruises in Victoria Most whale watching tours last between 3 and 5 hours, making them a popular activity for visitors spending a full day in Victoria. If you're short on time, book an early morning cruise so that you have time for other activities like Inner Harbour and Butchart Gardens. The best season to do these cruises is from May to September. Even in summer, dress in layers because it gets very windy on the water. Morning cruises usually have calmer waters, but if you're prone to motion sickness, carry your medication. Zodiac boats are faster and more adventurous, but they can get really cold owing to the wind. On our last visit, we opted for a whale-watching cruise. I'm sharing my experience via a video. This was in 2011, please bear with me, the video quality is not as per today's standards, but the excitement of seeing Orca whales in their natural habitat so close to our boat was thrilling... This time, though, we decided to drive around the city, see the world-famous Butchart Gardens, and spend the sunset at Ogden Point Breakwater, a beautiful walking trail close to Downtown Victoria. Visiting the Butchart Gardens in Victoria Butchart Gardens is a haven of colour, and if you visit it in spring, then flowers like cherry blossoms, daffodils and tulips are in full bloom. But regardless of the season, the garden with its beautiful Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, exquisitely arranged lush green foliage, water bodies with fountains, small winding paths, colourful totem poles and even a cute-looking carousel, is a treat to visit. The carousel is paid with a nominal ticket of $2 per person. Close to the entrance is a nice souvenir shop and some eateries, too. The gardens are located at a distance of 22 km from Downtown Victoria. It's easily accessible by both private and public transport. Parking facilities are good. You should plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours inside the gardens to fully appreciate their beauty. They are open till 11 pm on most days of the year except on holidays and Christmas Day. We, like most people, visited the gardens during the day. But I've heard some rave reviews from people who visited it at dusk when the garden is illuminated. To have the best of both worlds, you can plan to go there in the evening and stay on till dusk falls. You don't need a conducted tour of the garden, the paths are wheelchair-friendly and there are adequate spaces to sit and relax. What more can I say about these gardens....the pictures are self-explanatory... This was in summer, one can only imagine the glorious hues in spring!! Driving to Ogden Point Breakwater in Victoria BC After having spent a leisurely first half of the day amidst the beauty of Butchart Gardens, we decided to go to the Ogden Point Breakwater, a walk near Downtown Victoria. It should take you about 5 minutes to drive to Breakwater Point from Downtown Victoria, or if you're up for walking, it will take about 35 minutes to reach the Breakwater. Walk towards Dallas Road and turn right onto the wide path leading to the Breakwater. A 1.6-kilometre-long round trip of this scenic walk can take about 30 minutes to an hour. At the end of the walk is a lighthouse from where you can get glorious views of the sunset and the Juan de Fuca Strait. The walk is incredibly beautiful with planes flying overhead and cruises passing by. You will be able to see the busy Victoria Harbour with ferries and sailboats on the water and helicopters whirring overhead. That sums up our day trip to Victoria. My parting tip is that one should plan to spend more time than just a day in this vibrant city to soak in its many wonders.

Vancouver has always found a place of pride on the list of most liveable cities in the world, and a visit to this city reiterates this fact. The city is flanked by the peaks of the North Shore Mountains on its northern coastal edge, with its famous Grouse Mountain ski resort and by the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean on the west. Nestled between the mountains and the ocean is the beautiful city of Vancouver. My first and foremost tip for anyone visiting the city is to check the weather forecast for the day before making any bookings, since it rains quite a lot in Vancouver. The summer months of June to August are the driest, so planning a vacation during that time would be ideal, as most of the activities are outdoors. We were there in June 2024, so although it rained now and then, it was dry for the most part. We spent four days in Vancouver, our second visit to the city. Our first trip was in the summer of 2011, for a week when my kids were still very young. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the city has retained its charm even after so many years, although, like most metropolises, it looked more crowded. If you're a first-time visitor to the city, you must plan to keep at least a week aside to see its many wonders. There are an endless number of things to do, and the city boasts something to cater to all tastes. Listed below are the top 5 Must-Do Things in Vancouver, the Bustling Metropolis of British Columbia. Top Things to Do in Vancouver I. Stanley Park If you're an outdoor enthusiast, go for a run or bike around this massive 405-hectare public park. The park has the famous Stanley Park Seawall Path, which is a 10-km-long loop around the park that runs along the ocean and offers spectacular views. It takes about 3 hours to walk and 1 hour to cycle around the park. In my opinion, if you wake up on a sunny day in Vancouver, then don't miss a chance to go to Stanley Park. Conducted biking tours are also available if you wish to learn about the local history and see all the important points within the park. We had spent a day at the park on our earlier trip, and we had hired bikes that were easily available around the many shops very close to the park. We made a short stop this time, too. The park looked pretty much the same, except there were way more tourists along with the locals, and the free shuttle service that used to ferry passengers from the city was no longer there. II. Granville Island Located on False Creek, Granville Island is a perfect place to spend an evening. On first look, it would look like any other seafront promenade with eateries, boat rentals and souvenir shops. But after having spent an evening here, I think this should be on your not-to-miss list. The Granville Island Public Market is a great place to try fresh produce and gourmet delicacies. The entire area is bustling with eateries, breweries and local shops selling trinkets and handicrafts. You can also opt for a ferry ride called the Aqua Bus that will take you around the scenic harbourfront. III. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park lies in the District of North Vancouver and is known for its 140-metre-long suspension bridge, 70 meters above the Capilano River. But it's not the bridge alone that makes this park special; the entire 30-acre park has 7 other suspended footbridges, treetop adventures and Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway above the Capilano Canyon. The park is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. During Christmas, it stays open until 9 p.m. for a display of lights called Canyon Lights. Please check the official website for more details if you happen to be in Vancouver in winter https://www.capbridge.com/events/canyon-lights/ The park is a must-see attraction if you're travelling as a family with kids, and this is exactly what we did on our previous trip to Vancouver. This time, though, we decided to visit Lynn Canyon instead. IV. Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge Lynn Canyon Park also lies in the District of North Vancouver at a distance of about 9 km from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Unlike Capilano, entry to the park is free, but you have to pay for the parking. There is an East Parking lot that is free. If you happen to enter the park from there, then you won't have to pay for the parking either. Spread over an area of 617 acres, the park has many beautiful hiking trails with different levels of incline and narrow to wide streams of water flowing from Lynn Creek. The favourite trail is the Lynn Canyon Loop, which is 1.4 miles long and kid-friendly with a moderate incline. Except for some parts of the park which can be reached only by the wooden staircases, most of the park is wheelchair friendly. The park boasts a suspension bridge about 50 meters high and all the basic amenities like toilets and a small refreshment area, too. My Tip for You After having seen both the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge this time and the Capilano Suspension Bridge on our earlier visit to Vancouver, I'd say that you must see the latter if you're a first-time visitor. Capilano is paid but every bit touristy with dangling bridges, colourful totem poles and a fun adventure park with cute cottages and small hiking trails. That doesn't take away the fact that Lynn Canyon is also a great place to spend a day in the outdoors, but it's more for nature lovers and not for tourists, especially those travelling with family. I'm pasting some pictures of Capilano from our earlier trip for your reference. V. Flyover Canada This was day three in Vancouver, and it turned out to be cloudy with scattered rainfall. We decided to shop around and check out Flyover Canada, a recreation facility that offers simulated flying journeys over Canada. I'd seen a trailer for this show on YouTube and found it very impressive, but the experience was more fun than we could have imagined. Located in Canada Place in Downtown Vancouver, the simulation ride lasts about 20 minutes of sheer thrill. We were made to sit in flight-motion seats with seat belts to give us a real feeling of flight as the seats swooped over mountains, lakes, and volcanoes, leaving us in raptures. The 4 D experience includes wind, mist, and the scents of the region we flew over. The show covers Canada's entire length and breadth with spellbinding special effects. My Tip for You This show was spectacular. The only negative is that it should have lasted a bit longer than 20 minutes. By the time the feeling of euphoria kicks in, it's time to get off the seat. The facility is very organised. Photography inside is strictly prohibited. Apart from these top 5 not-to-miss attractions, a day trip to the beautiful mountain town of Whistler and Victoria, the stunning capital city of British Columbia, should be on your itinerary too. We visited Whistler on our last visit, so I'll share my experience with you here. We visited Victoria again. On our last day trip, we opted for a whale-watching cruise. It was super fun, to say the least, but that left little time for anything else. This time, we drove around the city and visited the famous Butchart Gardens and the beautiful area around Ogden Point Breakwater, the popular walk near Downtown Victoria. Best Day Trips from Vancouver Day Trip to Whistler from Vancouver Day four turned out to be sunny again. Since we had planned our day trip around the sunny weather forecast, the trip to the beautiful capital of British Columbia turned out to be a huge success https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-trip-to-victoria-bc-from-vancouver Day Trip to Victoria from Vancouver We had done a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver on our previous trip to Canada https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-whistler-from-vancouver-in-summer So, that is Vancouver for you. After having visited it twice, I'd like to sum up by listing these Top 5 Not-to-Miss attractions that are unique to the city and a great way to spend your time in Vancouver. If you're travelling with kids, then visiting the Science World and Vancouver Aquarium should also feature on your itinerary. I. Victoria - Picture-perfect destination. Ideally, one should keep at least two days to soak in the ethereal beauty of this city, go on a whale-watching tour and see the Butchart Gardens. II. Whistler - Visit for its world's longest and highest lift system called Peak 2 Peak Gondola and Whistler Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America. III. Capilano Suspension Bridge - This unique park is a perfect getaway for families. IV. Stanley Park - The park offers a great outdoors, and the Seawall is a must-see. V. Granville Island - A great way to spend a memorable evening, it has great eateries, and the place is vibrant and fun.

A day trip to the famous Columbia Ice Field and the Athabasca Glacier was the last outing on our road trip around Alberta. Before we visited the Columbia Icefield, I did not know the difference between an icefield and a glacier. So, let me start there. An icefield, as the name suggests, is a large mass or field of ice made up of multiple glaciers. Columbia Icefield, spread over 325 square kilometres, is the largest icefield in North America. Whew!! It straddles the boundaries of Banff and Jasper National Parks and comprises 6 major glaciers. Of these 6, Athabasca Glacier, part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world's most accessible glaciers; hence, every bit touristy. View of the Athabasca Glacier flowing from the icefield between the two mountain cliffs as seen from the terrace of Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre..... What makes an outing to this glacier really thrilling is the entire experience of reaching it on an all-terrain Ice Explorer! The Ice Explorer is a huge vehicle with massive tyres designed specifically for travel on the fragile surface of the glacier. It can carry up to 56 passengers at one time. Exploring the Columbia Ice Field and Athabasca Glacier Driving along the Icefields Parkway The entire province of Alberta is beautiful, but the road leading to the Columbia Ice Fields needs a special mention as it winds its way through breathtaking scenery. The Canadian Rockies that were visible from afar throughout the journey are now up close as we drove past them here. So, keep extra time for this drive as you'll be tempted to halt at every turn to click a picture. En route to the Columbia Icefield....I'm sure you wouldn't want to miss this, would you? The tour starts from the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre located on Icefields Parkway Highway 93 N. You must plan to reach the centre at least 30 minutes before the departure time that you wish to avail. There is a tour every 15 minutes, and your ticket is valid for the entire day. You will need 2.5 to 3 hours at the icefield. Getting to the Athabasca Glacier The Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre is a very well-organised facility. There are signs everywhere to guide you to the correct queue, and be prepared for queues everywhere. We arrived right on time for our tour. We were led to an open waiting area and from there onto a shuttle. The shuttle drove us to the point where the Ice Explorers were parked. This gigantic bus drives at a snail's pace through the paved road near the icefield, making deep ridges on the ice as it passes... This 10 to 15-minute drive up the glacier is accompanied by a very interesting commentary about the icefield and the glacier. I was happy to learn that despite the heavy inflow of tourists, the fragile ecosystem of the icefield is preserved vigilantly. So much so that before the ice explorer hits the glacier, it is made to pass through a small natural pool of meltwater called the 'tyre wash'. This is done to ensure that the debris from the surroundings is not carried onto the glacier and soils it. As the ice explorer rumbles on, the beauty of the ice field starts unfolding in front of our eyes. Upon reaching the glacier, we de-board the ice explorer, and this is what we see... We are greeted by huge mammoths of snow, icy cold winds and a rapidly thawing snow floor willing to give away the moment we step on it! There is a lot of mirthful shrieking all around as people's feet dip into the icy chasms of the glacier. A 15-minute window is allocated to each ice explorer; tourists are expected to return to the vehicle within that time slot. The ice explorer brings us back to the bus stand, we board the bus again and are driven in the shuttle to the riveting Skywalk. Columbia Icefield Skywalk Skywalk is a one-kilometre-long glass-bottom walkway built over the Sunwapta Valley. The glass platform is 280 metres high and offers beautiful views of the valley. The entire skywalk is lined with signage and displays with interesting information about this ecosystem. We spent about 45 minutes here and then took the connecting free shuttle back to the Discovery Centre. Path to the Skywalk, scenic views all around and the trees that look like specks of green through the glass of the Skywalk.... Tips for visiting the Athabasca Glacier The best time to visit the icefield is in the morning before 11 am or after 3 pm when the crowds are thin. We booked a tour after 3 pm and got a discount. You should check their website for any additional discounts on your day of travel before making the booking. The Columbia Icefield Adventure is heavily booked. You must plan this trip to ensure that you don't miss it. There are 2 tour options available. Option 1 is Glacier Adventure, which includes the Skywalk. Option 2 is Ice Odyssey, where you are taken in a smaller group higher up the glacier. For Glacier Adventure, park in the lower Jasper-side parking lot. A very wide open stairway will lead you directly into the Discovery Centre. Carry proper woollen clothing in summer too. It can get very cold on the glacier with icy winds blowing all around you. Just about a 10-minute walk away and at a slightly steep incline from the parking lot is the stunning Peyto Lake. Don't miss it! A visit to the Athabasca Glacier is a journey back in time. And the receding glaciers, too, have a story to tell! Don't miss this amazing experience on your trip through Alberta.

The lakes around Canada's national parks never cease to amaze you. We've all heard about Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, but believe me, the lesser-known ones are equally stunning. Lake Emerald is one of them. Silhouetted by tall, lush green trees on all sides, the scenery around the lake is a sight to behold, adding to the beauty of the blue-green glacial waters of the lake, aptly called Emerald! One gets to see a different kind of topography on the route to Lake Emerald in the Yoho National Park. The beautiful winding road is lined by tall pine, spruce and fir trees, and the Rockies appear much closer... Practical Tips about Visiting Lake Emerald in Yoho National Park The lake lies in Yoho National Park at a distance of 115 km from Canmore. It's closer to Banff at about 94 km. The lake is free to visit. Your Parks Canada Pass will be valid here. There is free parking very close to the lake. It gets filled up easily, but I saw vehicles moving in and out quickly, so it's better to wait for your turn. I also saw some cars parked along the side of the road. I'm not sure if that's permitted. Please be sure to park outside the parking lot. Canoeing is the most popular activity on the lake; You will see many red canoes dotting its calm waters. The best time to go to the lake is early morning when the light hits the water, making the lake look ethereal, and getting easy access to the parking is an added advantage. Remember to carry caps or hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and enough water to drink if you plan to go canoeing on a sunny day. The sun's rays can be very scorching. A free toilet facility is available very close to the lake, and if you walk up the path right next to the lake a bit further, you will find a small place for coffee and sandwiches. You need only about 2 hours around this lake, so plan it en route to some other destination. We visited it on our way to the Columbia Ice Fields in Jasper, and it worked out pretty well. Lake Emerald is a gem worth exploring. Don't miss it on your trip to Alberta!!

After spending two nights in Calgary, we headed to Canmore. Canmore is 103 km away from Calgary, it lies in the heart of the Bow River Valley in the Kananaskis Country, on the southeast boundary of Banff National Park. Its proximity to the park makes it the perfect place for tourists traversing the region to stay here. A fleeting pic en route to Canmore... The town is as beautiful but not as expensive as Banff, plus if you're travelling with your family and are looking for spacious accommodations, then Canmore is your best bet. Stunning mountain scenery visible from our backyard! Canmore is very popular amongst sporting enthusiasts. If you're an avid outdoor sports lover, then this city is the answer to all your sporting desires. It's famous for ice climbing and its many walking and biking trails, plus the famous Rat's Cave Tours. Also, skiing enthusiasts flock to Canmore since the town has the distinction of having one of the longest ski seasons in the world. There are many spectacular trails, the most popular being the Policeman's Creek Boardwalk. This is an easy trail and you'll love the views you get from it as you stroll along. The walking trail has the famous Big Head Sculpture and goes past Downtown. We had gone there for a morning walk sans our phones, which is a rare thing for tourists like us to do, but Big Head Sculpture warrants a mention and a picture, I had to take this from a public portal... Another stunning trail in the region is the Grassi Lakes Trail. This trail lies in the Kananaskis Country and is about 4 km long. Its gentle incline has made it a popular choice for families. It should take about 2 hours to do a round trip that will take you to the beautiful twin turquoise lakes, Upper and Lower Grassi Lakes. When we visited in June 2024, this trail was intermittently closed for maintenance purposes. Please check the official website of Alberta Parks https://albertaparks.ca/ for more updates on this trail in case you wish to explore it. Things to do in Canmore Day One Lake Louise Fairview Lookout Trail Lake Louise is one of the top attractions in Banff, and if the day you plan to visit it is bright and sunny, don't miss the opportunity. We did exactly that and visited the lake en route to Canmore. I have written about our day trip to Lake Louise in a separate blog. Please follow the link to read more... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff Day Two Explored the beautiful city of Canmore Engine Bridge Biking trails Our day started with walking around town looking for the iconic Three Sisters. We finally spotted them while walking towards Downtown. The trail to this trio of peaks is challenging and takes about 3 and a half hours to complete. Considering we had just a day in Canmore, had to contend with clicking pictures of this beauty only. We decided to hire bikes and see as much of the town as possible, starting with Downtown Canmore. I have never seen such a picturesque downtown. There are rows of shops and galleries that you can explore at leisure with the beautiful Rockies peering from the sides. Since the Grassi Lakes Trail was closed down, we set out on the picturesque Bow River Trail, a 6.9 km long loop with the level of difficulty stated as easy. The trail goes over the historic Engine Bridge, another popular attraction in Canmore. View of the Bow River from Engine Bridge The famous Engine Bridge Stunning views of the Canadian Rockies in the backdrop of the Engine Bridge Biking around Canmore's many picturesque locales.... Canmore is a gem, largely overshadowed by its illustrious neighbour, Banff. Plan to spend some extra time here, and you will get to see the raw side of nature without the spoils of excessive tourism. If you happen to visit Canmore, do share your experiences with me. I'd love to hear from you!

The deep turquoise blue hues of the glacial waters of Lake Louise set against the backdrop of the snowy mountainous terrain and lush green forests of larch trees in the background lend an ethereal feel to this stunning body of water, which has also earned it the nickname of The jewel in the heart of the Canadian Rockies! In this blog, you will get all the relevant details about embarking on this scenic day trip to Lake Louise. Your trip to Banff would be incomplete without seeing the two most iconic lakes in the national park, Lake Louise and Lake Moraine. Things to know before your Lake Louise day trip Lake Louise is free to visit. You only need the Parks Canada Pass to enter the national park. Parking at Lake Louise is on a first-come, first-served basis, and it's not free. Please ensure that you get your parking ticket to avoid any penalties later. And parking rates are crazy at around $ 36 for a day! I normally don't make a note of parking rates, but after having paid that much money for a 3-hour parking, I'm sure anyone would remember. The best time to visit the lake is early morning in summer to beat the massive tourist rush and also to get a decent parking slot. Keep a tab on the weather forecast before you visit the lake. The views on a clear sunny day are unmatched in their beauty. Right opposite the lake is the beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise with fine dining options. If you're looking for a quick bite, then there is a cafe, a takeaway joint, on the ground floor which is open to walk-ins. They serve fresh coffee with good options for knick-knacks like sandwiches and small meals. Lake Louise will mesmerise you with its deep blue colour created by the presence of fine rock dust that flows into the lake from the nearby glaciers, remains suspended in the water and reflects the light. The lake shore has a pedestrian-friendly boardwalk that's ideal for clicking pictures. One should plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours at the lakeside since there are a whole lot of activities that can be done while you're there. Hiking on the famous Fairview Lookout Trail is one of the top favourites among visitors. Canoeing on the lake is another popular activity; you will see a lot of conspicuously coloured red canoes on the blue surface of the lake. Lake Louise Gondola is another popular attraction. The 14-minute gondola ride will take you up an incline of 2088 m, where you can get splendid views of the mountains and a bird's eye view of the lake. However, if you are okay with hiking up a reasonably steep incline, then the hike up to the Fairview Lookout Trail should be at the top of your list of must-do activities in Lake Louise. View from the Fairview Lookout Point The trail is about 1 km in length, and although the level of difficulty mentioned on the signboard was easy, I'd say that it's moderate since the climb to the viewpoint is uphill all the way. Return is all downhill. We came across a lot of people halfway through the trail wanting to enquire about how much further to go. We did it in the summer on a sunny day, so the path was dry and easy to walk on. In winter, this steep slope can get very slippery, so be careful if you go in winter or if it's raining. Visiting Lake Moraine in Banff National Park Another famous lake that should be included in everyone's itinerary visiting Banff is Lake Moraine. This lake is considered to be more beautiful than Lake Louise...how is it even possible?? But I believe it is....since getting access to the lake was a nightmare. We tried making a booking 2 days in advance after reaching Calgary, but could not find any vacant slots, and even shuttle tickets were not available. We had to forego the idea of seeing Lake Moraine altogether. I am sharing our experience with you so that you can make the bookings on time and be able to visit this wonderful lake! A visit to Lake Moraine is paid for and can be visited with a tour only, since driving to the lake in your private vehicle is not permitted. You can access Lake Moraine only by the Parks Canada shuttle buses, Roam Public transport or if you have a pre-booked tour package. Tour packages are expensive. Ideally, one should book a shuttle to and fro in advance in the peak season. The official website for Lake Moraine is https://morainelake.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Day-Visits-to-ML-2023.pdf. You must go through this if you're serious about visiting this lake on a day trip, and that too in the peak season. So, Lake Moraine will have to wait for another trip to Alberta, but Lake Louise was definitely the show stealer of our trip to Banff. If you're able to visit both these lakes on your trip to Alberta, do share your experience with me. I would love to hear your story.

We started early from Calgary to reach the beautiful resort town of Banff. The route to Banff is as enchanting as the town itself.... The town has many old villas and chateaus converted into hotels, and the vibe is unmistakably touristy. There are souvenir shops and restaurants on the main street called Banff Avenue, where you can see the peak of Cascade Mountain peering from a distance. Banff was our second stop in Alberta after Calgary. I have written in detail about our 5-day road trip in Alberta in a separate blog https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/5-day-road-trip-in-alberta-the-westernmost-province-of-canada Banff vs Canmore: Where should you stay? Banff is highly touristy. There are only hotels, lodges and premium residences in Banff. If you're travelling with your family and looking for spacious accommodations like Airbnb with more rooms, you should stay in towns closer to Banff, like Canmore. Being touristy also makes Banff very expensive. If you wish to stay for multiple days, then staying in the quieter nearby towns is a more economical option which are as scenic as Banff. We reached Banff quite early and could easily find a free parking space, but I remember the mad rush at the parking lot by the time we got out in the afternoon. Things to know before visiting Banff National Park and Jasper National Park You DO NOT need a pass to enter the town of Banff. You DO need to buy a Parks Canada Pass to enter the national parks. The pass can be bought on the same day from the counter at the entrance to the park. You can also make an online reservation on the official website of the parks in advance at https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/visit/passer-passes A list of counters where passes can be purchased is mentioned on the website. During the summer months, a lot of initiatives and options are available for tourists entering the parks. Please check the website for more offers before making bookings. If you're travelling as a family, then there is an option to buy a Family Group Pass, which allows up to 7 people in one personal vehicle. Remember, the pass has to be displayed on the windscreen of your vehicle at all times while you're travelling in the park. This entry pass is valid across Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Waterton Lakes and Elk Island national parks. The pass expires at 4:00 pm on the day of departure. Google map signals can be a bit sketchy in a lot of places, especially close to mountainous terrain. It's better to download offline maps before starting the journey and play it safe. We had allocated only 3 days for the national parks, which proved to be very little to cover the multitude of attractions that the parks offer. So, if possible, plan at least 4 to 5 days to see all the attractions. The two most popular lakes in the region are Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, and their inevitable comparison. I've discussed this in greater detail in a separate post https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff Our 2-Day Banff Itinerary Day 1 - Drive from Calgary to Banff Idled around the town of Banff Bow Falls Surprise View Corner Johnston Canyon Lake Minnewanka Banff is as touristy as it gets. The entire region is bursting with activity, and tourists jostling in queues at popular sights is common. It's important to plan your visit to Banff if you want to utilise your time optimally. There are many activities to do in Banff, like the famous Banff Gondola, museums, cave tours, lots of walking trails and the lakes, of course. The national park has many must-see lakes like Lake Moraine, Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, Lake Peyto, Lake Emerald and Bow Lake, to name a few. We wanted to see the beautiful glacial lakes with Lake Moraine and Lake Louise at the top of our list. I will discuss this in greater detail in a separate post. We decided to spend our first day in Banff exploring this beautiful town and seeing as many attractions as possible. We started our day in Banff National Park with a trip to Bow Falls. The falls lie at a distance of 128 km from Calgary via the Trans Canada Highway. The falls are free to visit, but you will need the Parks Canada Pass since they lie inside Banff National Park. Close to the falls is the Surprise View Corner. This viewpoint offers great views of the Bow Valley and the famous Fairmont Banff Springs across the Bow River. You can walk along the river and the falls and get some amazing views! Surprise View Corner is located at the corner of Tunnel Mountain Road. It's best to walk along the river and then take the stairs to Buffalo Street. The parking lot here is very small; it can barely accommodate 4 to 5 cars, but wait for your turn since people keep moving in and out fairly quickly. There are also a lot of exciting hiking trails all around Bow Falls. After spending a couple of hours in the area, we set out to see Johnston Canyon, which is about 26 km away from Bow Falls. As we drive deeper into Banff National Park, the stunning beauty of the mountains starts unfolding in front of us... Johnston Canyon is the busiest trail in Banff owing to its easy incline in the canyon, which makes it a popular destination among families travelling with kids and the elderly. Quickly hugged my reluctant grown-up son on the pretext of getting a picture clicked... The wooden path along the canyon has a firm railing to hold on to and a very easy incline. The Bow River meanders through the narrow canyon creating stunning scenery... The hike takes you to the last point in the canyon, which ends in a waterfall next to a cave. You will see a long queue of tourists waiting to enter the cave. We followed suit and waited for almost an hour, only to see what? The same waterfall gushing from inside into the canyon!! You can avoid this queue and the cave, too! After spending close to 3 hours at Johnston Canyon, we headed to Lake Minnewanka. The lake is about 36 km from the canyon and is every bit as stunning but less crowded. We spent some quiet time around the lake, clicking pictures on the cliffs and listening to the sound of silence! Day 2 - Calgary to Lake Louise, Overnight at Canmore Lake Louise Fairview Lookout Trail We drove back to Calgary in the evening from Lake Minnewanka. Early the next morning, we set out for Canmore with our bags in tow via Lake Louise on the Trans-Canada Highway. The day was bright and sunny, so we decided to go straight to the lake instead of first checking into our apartment in Canmore. The direct route from Calgary to Lake Louise takes about 2 hours to cover a distance of 185 km. Lake Louise and Fairview Lookout Trail are one of the most sought-after tourist spots in Banff https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff If you have an extra day to spend on the road and are open to staying overnight somewhere along the way to Lake Louise, then you must take the scenic route from Calgary to Lake Louise, the Bow Valley Parkway, instead of taking the regular Trans-Canada Highway. This roadway is known for its stunning scenic views and picnic spots along the way. When we visited Alberta in June 2024, this parkway was closed. Please refer to the official website of Parks Canada for updated information on this route. To sum up, I'd say that one can cover most of the touristy locales, the must-see attractions in Banff in 2 days, hopping from one attraction to another, but if you wish to soak in this surreal beauty at leisure, then 2 days are not enough. There are so many stunning lakes and walking trails at every turn that we would have loved to spend more time around the lakes. So, plan your trip accordingly.

The western Canadian province of Alberta is a paradise waiting to be explored. The surreal beauty of this vast arid land has to be seen to be believed. Set against the backdrop of the mighty Canadian Rockies, you will see verdant greens of the Prairies, foothills of the Rockies and stunning emerald and blue glacial lakes dotting this scenic landscape at every turn. A road trip through this region will take you on the Trans-Canada Highway connecting Calgary to Banff and onward to Jasper National Park via Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), considered one of the world's most scenic highways! Ten Useful Travel Tips for Alberta National Parks The best time to travel to this rugged mountainous region is summer, when the days are sunny and bright, and you can expect sunshine till about ten o'clock at night!! Mountainous weather is unpredictable, so you must carry a light woollen jacket even when travelling in summer. If you plan to visit the Glacier in Columbia Icefields, all the more reason for you to carry warm clothes. A Parks Canada Pass is required to enter all the national parks. The pass is available online on the official website, and you can also buy the same at the counter on the day of travel. I have written in detail about Parks Canada Pass in my memoir about our time in Banff National Park in a separate post on the link pasted below in this post. An important point to remember is that a Parks Canada Pass does not automatically give you free access to all the parking lots inside the national parks. You might have to pay the parking fee at some places, such as Lake Louise, for instance. So, please ensure that you check for parking fees wherever required to avoid any penalty later. We had 5 days at our disposal to see the national parks, but I feel that a slightly longer week-long trip would be ideal to soak in the beauty of this region. Plus, keep an extra hour for every road trip you plan in this region because you will be tempted to stop your vehicle at every turn to click pictures of this scenic landscape. Remember to research what you wish to see during your stay in the national parks because there's so much to do, and you will waste a lot of time without a proper plan in place. We, for instance, covered Lake Louise on our way to Canmore and Lake Emerald on our way to Jasper. This helped us save precious time. There are many ways to access the national parks. You can make a round trip, starting from Calgary to Banff, to Jasper and back to Calgary with overnight stays at Calgary and Banff of 2 to 3 nights each, depending on the available time. A lot of people also start from Calgary and close their trip in Edmonton, which is slightly closer than Calgary. Banff, like all touristy places, is more expensive compared to the nearby town of Canmore or the closest city of Calgary. If you're travelling with a family with kids and looking for more spacious and economical accommodation like Airbnb, then your best bet is to stay in the nearby town of Canmore, which is closer and equally scenic as Banff. Staying in the bustling city of Calgary is also a great option, which is only about an hour and a half drive from Banff. A drive through these national parks can bring you face-to-face with many wild animals like elk, big horn sheep, moose and even grizzly bears! We came across a huge grizzly bear and its cub slumbering in the woods, and some tourists were trying to catch its attention by gesticulating, making noise and taking pictures. Remember, it can be very dangerous to provoke the animal. Please refrain from doing so and do not step out of your vehicle to take pictures. Also, when going on hikes in the national parks, remember to carry a bear spray can. Once you cross Banff and hit the road towards the national parks, you will not find any provision stores or eateries on the journey. So, stock up your car with snacks to munch on and enough water. The same should apply to your car's fuel tank, too. Fill her up nice and full because you might not see a gas station for many miles ahead. Now, let me take you through our 5-day road trip through Alberta, with the final leg of the road journey from Jasper to Vancouver, BC. 5-Day Alberta Road Trip Itinerary Day 1 - Calgary to Banff National Park Idled around the town of Banff Bow Falls Surprise View Corner Johnston Canyon Lake Minnewanka We had only 5 days to cover both Banff and Jasper, so instead of spending our first day in Calgary, we headed straight to the famous Bow Falls in Banff. A lot of people do this since Banff has lots of activities to cover. If you're planning to visit Calgary, you could use this guide to plan your trip to Banff, Bow Falls, Surprise View Corner, Johnston Canyon and Lake Minnewanka https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/2-days-in-banff-national-park-alberta Day 2 - Half-day Sightseeing in Calgary Calgary Downtown Peace Bridge After the excitement of the previous day, we started our second day in Calgary on a slow note. Calgary is rated as one of the cleanest cities in the world and a visit to this beautiful city reiterates this claim. One can find an abundance of open vistas and green patches in the city. We were in Calgary in June, but if you happen to be there in July, you should not miss the chance to see the popular annual event called Calgary Stampede. It's a 10-day festival known for its outdoor rodeo show that has the distinction of being the world's largest outdoor rodeo, plus other events like concerts, parades and exhibitions by First Nations. First Nations refers to the Indigenous people and ethnic groups who first inhabited Canada. Calgary is not a hot tourist destination per se. Still, its proximity to Banff National Park (around 127 km via the Trans-Canada Highway) prompts many tourists traversing that area to use it as a base for further travel. We had only 2 days in Calgary. Our outing started with a trip to Downtown Calgary to explore the famous pedestrian hub, Stephen Avenue Walk. The area has many restaurants, shops and boutiques. We spent about an hour and a half and then headed to the Peace Bridge. Peace Bridge is a conspicuously red-coloured bridge built over the Bow River in Downtown Calgary in Prince's Island Park. You will find tourists and locals alike strolling and biking around the park. Another famous landmark of the city is the Calgary Tower. Located in the heart of Downtown Calgary, the tower is 190.8 metres tall and is known for its spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains in the distance. We had limited time, so we had to skip climbing the tower. Another important attraction in Calgary is the Calgary Zoo. If you're travelling with kids, then this should be the top of your itinerary for Calgary. But remember, the zoo is massive, and you would need a full day to be able to see it all. Close to Calgary, about 135 km away, is the town of Drumheller. The town is famous for its striking badlands terrain in the Dinosaur Provincial Park. Again, it's a one-day outing from Calgary; go for it if you have time. Day 3 - Calgary to Canmore by road via Lake Louise and Fairview Lookout Trail The next two nights were in Canmore. As I've mentioned earlier, there's a lot to do in Banff, so after a quick trip around Calgary, we headed straight to Lake Louise in Banff. Besides, the day was bright and sunny, and it would have been foolish to miss the opportunity to see the famed lake in all its glory. I am sharing my experience at Lake Louise and the Fairview Lookout Trail https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff Day 4 - Sightseeing in Canmore Biking trails Engine Bridge We had allocated the second day in Canmore to see Lake Moraine. But we could not get tickets for the tour package. Please remember that you cannot drive to Lake Moraine in your personal vehicle. The tours to the lake need to be booked well in advance. We learnt this fact the hard way and had to miss this tour. I have discussed this in the blog link posted above. So, instead of driving to Banff again, we decided to look up the beautiful town of Canmore. And boy, did we love it!! Canmore is a dreamy town lying in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, not as touristy as Banff but every bit as charming. If you can spare a day, then don't miss the chance to explore Canmore. You can refer to our Canmore experience https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/2-nights-in-canmore-alberta Day 5 - Drove from Canmore to Hinton, Alberta via Lake Emerald and Columbia Ice Fields Lake Emerald Tour of Columbia Ice Fields in Jasper National Park Very close to Canmore, just about 115 km away, lies another stunning water body, Lake Emerald. Here's a complete guide for you to plan your visit to the beautiful Lake Emerald in the Yoho National Park in British Columbia https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/half-day-trip-to-lake-emerald-yoho-national-park-bc We spent half a day at the lake before proceeding to the tour of the Columbia Ice Fields. Here's my experience of stepping out on the glacier at the Columbia Ice Fields https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-thrilling-day-trip-to-the-columbia-ice-field-and-the-athabasca-glacier-in-alberta Our last destination for this road trip was Vancouver. Jasper to Vancouver is close to 800 km and takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes to cover. We decided to break the journey and spend a night in Hinton, a small town close to Jasper, about 40 minutes by road. The town has excellent infrastructure and offers cheaper accommodation than the touristy Jasper. Day 6 - Drove from Hinton, Alberta, to Kamloops, BC and further to Vancouver The city of Vancouver on the west coast of Canada beckons visitors from all over the world. Here, you will find the Top 5 things that you must do in Vancouver https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/top-5-must-do-things-in-vancouver-the-bustling-capital-of-british-columbia For more general travel tips, click here Some Useful Travel Tips | journeys2memories

A trip to Prague is incomplete without seeing Prague Castle, the largest castle in Europe. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most interesting one I have yet seen, owing to a variety of buildings and structures that belong to different eras and yet stand together very cohesively in this castle complex. Prague Castle is an overload of culture and history. You can see the relics of Bohemian kings, stunning artworks, historical manuscripts and above all, the crown jewels. Practical Tips for Visiting the Prague Castle We visited the Prague Castle Complex without much prior information. Upon reaching there, I realised that we should've researched it, the foremost reason being the sheer size of the complex. So, I've jotted down some basic facts for you that could be very helpful in case you go visiting. The castle complex is massive, covering an area of 70,000 square meters. You need to set aside at least 3 to 4 hours to see this complex. It takes only 15 minutes on foot from Charles Bridge to reach the castle. Once you enter the complex, stroll along to take a good look at the stunning buildings from the outside before buying entry tickets to the paid areas. The exterior facades are as compelling as the interiors. And they are free!! Entry into the castle complex is free. If you wish to see these attractions from the inside, then you need to buy a ticket. There are many ticket options available, so it's a good idea to do some research before you go, depending on the amount of time you have and what you wish to see. You can check the official website of Prague Castle for details https://www.hrad.cz/en/prague-castle-for-visitor There are Basic Circuit tickets that cover the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, Golden Lane and St. Vitus Cathedral. Apart from these 4 attractions, some permanent exhibitions can also be seen for a separate ticket. All tickets are valid for 2 days, so if you have time, then you can go back again to see what is left, but remember, entry to one attraction is permitted only once. Over 2 million people visit the castle each year, so you can imagine the crowds thronging to enter the castle each day. Start early, especially if you want to buy tickets at the counter. If you're sure about what you wish to see, buying tickets online beforehand is better, guaranteeing you a Priority Entrance. I'll try to give you an insight into the castle to help you decide what to see. As per the official website of the castle, photography inside the castle is not permitted. You need a valid license for it. But I saw so many people clicking pictures, and I am sure not all of them had licenses. I concluded that one just needs to do it without the use of flash. If possible, plan your trip on a weekday for smaller crowds. Weekends can be quite busy. The castle complex is wheelchair friendly and entry for wheelchair users and their attendants is free. The approach to the castle complex is quite uphill; there is a very broad Old Castle staircase leading to the castle that makes walking on the incline easier, but be prepared to walk a lot. Also, there is no shade anywhere, so if it's summer, then carry an umbrella. We were scorched by the summer sun while walking uphill. After posting this blog on the Facebook page of a Prague Travel group, a fellow member of the group, Vit Spisek, pointed out that a better way to enter the castle is from Nerudova Street. This street will lead you to the square with panoramic views, and one can enter the castle from the Main Gate. And if you want to avoid walking altogether, then take tram # 22 to Prazsky hrad (Prague Castle) and enter via the North Gate. Alternatively, take tram # 22 and get off at Pohorelec. From here, you will see the Strahov Monastery and more panoramic views and then a small walk will lead you to the Main Gate. You can also walk to the North Gate through the castle gardens from Letna Park. Such detailed information could come only from a local. I am grateful to Vit for letting me share this valuable information here. I hope everyone reading this post will find it useful. I'd read a lot of mixed reviews about the various tour options available in the paid attractions. We were not sure what to do upon reaching the palace. The audio guide is priced at a whopping 350 CZK for some reason. Eventually, we opted for the one-hour tour that cost 250 CZK. The guide was good, and the tour was very informative. Cafes inside the castle complex are quite expensive. We paid 4 euros for a bottle of water. You can carry your food and drinks. There are a lot of places to sit around and eat. Things To Do in the Prague Castle Old Royal Palace This beautiful Romanesque palace can be seen as part of the circuit ticket. It is still a functional hall and many ceremonial gatherings of the Czech government are still held here. The highlight of your trip to the Royal Palace is the Vladislav Hall. St. Vitus Cathedral This is the largest church in Prague. It has seen the coronations of many Czech kings and queens. My Tip for You This is a not-to-miss attraction. The church is stunning both on the outside and the inside. Outside, if you crane your neck, you will see such intricate details carved in stone with gargoyles and spires jutting into the sky. As you enter, you will be mesmerised by its Gothic architecture and the tall stained glass windows. St. Wenceslas Chapel is magnificent. St. George's Basilica This is the oldest church building within the castle complex. Compared to St. Vitus Cathedral, this church is quite sombre. My Tip for You This is included in the circuit ticket, so we watched it. Nothing spectacular about it. If you're running short on time or if you're very tired from all the walking, you can skip this one. Lobkovicz Palace The Palace is the only privately owned building in the Castle complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It holds a vast and enthralling collection of artworks belonging to the Lobkowicz family over generations. The audio guide is fun to hear as the owner, William Lobkowicz, talks about how the Nazis took away their wealth and how they re-collected all of it. My Tip for You There is a music concert every day at 1 pm. You must buy the combination ticket that will offer you entry to the museum along with an audio guide and a concert at 1 pm. The only negative is that the palace is hugely crowded. We had to wait a good 30 minutes in the sun to get inside. There are also quite a few steps before you see the museum. Golden Lane This lane has dwellings of the caretakers or servers of the castle. At the end of the lane is a torture chamber and a dungeon. The lane was very crowded when we got there. It's always crowded, I believe. But it was nice and vibrant, worth the wait! Franz Kafka also lived here on this lane at some point. Permanent Exhibitions of Prague Castle There are 2 permanent exhibitions at the Prague Castle. The story of Prague Castle, Prague Castle Picture Gallery Buying the Prague Castle - Permanent Exhibition Circuit includes entry to these exhibitions. We did not see these exhibitions since we were travelling to Prague after spending a fortnight in Austria, and we'd had our fill of visiting all kinds of museums. But if you're interested in seeing these exhibitions, then please refer to the official website of Prague Castle to buy combo tickets accordingly. My parting tip to anyone visiting the castle is to refer to the official website mentioned above before your trip, because this castle is massive with many attractions to see. We wasted a lot of time and energy trying to figure out what to do and what to omit. This will give you an idea about what you're watching once you're inside the castle complex. What you do here will depend entirely on the time available to you. Not-to-miss attractions are the Old Royal Palace, Saint Vitus Cathedral and Lobkovicz Palace.