Day Tour 11: White Water Rafting – Kitulgala Adventure Tour
A full-day adventure on the Kelani Ganga at Kitulgala – Sri Lanka’s premier white water rafting destination, with Grade 3-4 rapids through a forested gorge on a river that is clear, powerful and expertly managed by experienced guides.
Key Highlights
Grade 3 and 4 Rapids
A sequence of named rapids providing genuine white water challenge, managed safely with professional equipment and experienced riverside safety guides throughout the run.
Kelani River Gorge
The rafting route runs through a beautifully forested gorge with a dense canopy overhead, birdlife visible from the water and the sounds of the rainforest audible between each rapid.
Bridge on the River Kwai Location
Kitulgala is the original 1957 filming location of David Lean’s Oscar-winning film, with traces of the production construction still visible near the riverbank.
Rainforest Swimming Stops
The calmer sections of the Kelani between rapids are ideal for swimming in exceptionally clear, cool mountain water – a genuine refreshment between the active sections.
Endemic Bird Spotting
The surrounding Kitulgala Forest Reserve is home to endemic Sri Lankan birds including the blue magpie and the spurfowl, most active in the early morning along the river margins.
Inclusions
– Experienced rafting guide
– Safety equipment including helmet, life jacket, paddle and safety vest
– Changing facilities
– Bottled water
Exclusions
– Meals and beverages
– Gratuities
– Travel insurance
– Personal items and dry bags
– Note: Not suitable for non-swimmers or those with back, cardiac or serious medical conditions. Minimum age 12.