For the thrills and the spills of an action packed water adventure, head to Kitulgala – Sri Lanka’s Mecca for white water rafting. Located an easy 2 to 2.5 hours from Colombo, Kitulgala offers a series of rapids of Grade 2-3 on the Kelani river, that are navigable by beginners and yet suitable for amateurs. Riding the rapids takes at most 2 hours, and on the way you will pass by the famous scene from the movie “Bridge on the River Kwai”, where the remnants of the blown up bridge are still present. A variety of hotels and guest-houses have sprung up at suitable take-out points, so you are spoiled for choice for a meal, a drink, or an overnight stay. As the water levels are dam controlled, rafting at Kitulgala is possible all year round.
The more experienced rafters may prefer to take on a limited selection of more challenging rapids – such as on the Mahaweli river (Grade 3-5, upto 3.5 hrs rafting) or Kotmala (Grade 5, upto 6 hours rafting). However, the water levels here change with the weather, and they are therefore seasonal activities.
Sri Lanka Adventures provide all equipment including White Water Rafts, Life Jackets, Paddles, and Helmets. Throw bags and first aid kits are available on all rafts. |
