TRAVEL SPECIAL ....Sporty FUN at Mauritius

Sporty FUN at Mauritius

Biking, ziplining and kite surfing... explore Mauritius beyond the beautiful beaches

The mere mention of Mauritius conjures up images of white sands and pristine waters. A gorgeous island in the Indian Ocean — off the coast of Africa —Mauritius boasts of a stunning coastline, besides offering numerous activities and experiences that make it a perfect family holiday destination.

CULTURE AND HERITAGE

Aapravasi Ghat or the Immigration Depot is where almost half a million of indentured labourers from India first set foot during the British colonial era, to work in the sugarcane plantations. This explains why a majority of Mauritians have Indian roots. Grand Bassin or Ganga Talao, a serene lake, is an ode to the holy Ganges river in India. Busts of Indian deities can be found here along with iconic statues of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga. Outside of India, Grand Bassin is known to be one of the most prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites.

NATURE AND ADVENTURE

Pamplemousses Botanical Garden:

It is also eponymously called Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, after the former prime minister of Mauritius. It is home to a wide variety of exotic flora and fauna, with trees planted by world leaders and royalty. The highlight here is the presence of giant water lilies that are native to the Amazon river, and named Victoria Amazonica after Queen Victoria.

La Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park:

Ziplining — the third longest in the world at 1.5km — gave me the adrenaline rush that I often seek. A thrilling experience, this was followed by a 350-metre nerve-wracking walk on narrow wooden planks across the Nepalese bridge. At one point you can stare down at the 20-metre drop right in the middle of a jungle, and although a harness ensures your safety, I wouldn’t be surprised if your heart skips a beat or two!

La Vanille Nature Park: 

If an afternoon spent staring at the seemingly lazy crocodiles basking under the sun gets a tad monotonous for you, then fascinate your senses by petting massive tortoises, some of them over 150 years old!

HAPPY TUMMIES!

Bois Cheri Tea Plantation: 

Mauritius offers a charming tea route that starts at Le Domaine de Aubineaux — formerly a French colonial style home, now converted into a museum. Nestled in a cosy village an hour’s drive away and overlooking a crater lake is the tea plantation where a wide variety of herbal teas can be sampled.

Rhumerie de Chamarel: 

Lined with vast plantations forming a stunning landscape, this rare rum distillery cultivates its own sugarcane, and friendly guides take you through tasting sessions of the finest rum.

Rahul Jagtiani

TL23SEP18