Journey to the Navel of the Earth- Easter Islands

Take a detour from the hustle and bustle and stifling crowds of city life. Travel to the one of the most serene places in the world- The Polynesian Rapa Nui or The Easter Islands.

Straight out of the pages of a fantasy novel, the Easter Islands are a group of breathtakingly beautiful islands-its strange history steeped in mystery, magic and lore.

Accessible from Tahiti and Chile through a long flight, the Easter Islands are known to be among the most isolated spots on the planet, but this untamed beauty and outlandish character add to the charm of the islands.

The most visibly recognizable icon of the Easter Islands is of course the Moai- giant monolithic human figures. These are carved entirely from rock and can be found throughout the island, lending to it a surreal quality.

Tune into the pulse of Mother Nature at the Easter Islands. The extinct volcanic craters at Rano Raraku and Rano Kau are a visual treat. The crater at Rano Raraku served as an inland quarry from which the Moai were painstakingly carved from volcanic rock.

You can still see some unfinished Moai at the site, each carrying secrets of lost history. Rano Kau is a Chilean national park site. So be prepared to shell out a sum to explore the area.

Easter Island has one of the most extensive cave systems in the world. Trek to the centre of the earth and be sure to carry a good flashlight around. It can get pretty dark in those caves!

Discover underwater marvels through snorkeling and scuba diving.  To enjoy these, do visit Motu Nui and Motu Iti- small islands located about 1 km south of the main island.

These islands are famous for the ‘birdman culture’. Guided tours will take to the quietest coves and picturesque natural wonders. Diving and other equipment is also easily rentable.

Among other water-based activities, surfing is also a popular activity. Locals and tourists enjoy shorebreak bodysurfing on the sands and surf of Anakena.  You can also surf in the harbor at Hanga Roa- along with the locals.

For one of the most spectacular astronomical events, plan a trip to the Easter Islands on July 2010.

It has been speculated that a total solar eclipse will occur on July 11, 2010, and Easter Islands will be an important viewing spot.