Kitulgala, between Colombo and Kandy, is Sri Lanka’s adventure town. The Kelani River runs through it, and The Bridge on the River Kwai was filmed in this area. Here are the five best things to do, with links to plan each one. Activities start from LKR 5,000 per person, with no minimum group size.
1. White water rafting
Paddle the rapids of the Kelani River with a local guide. The 5km trip is the favourite for beginners and families, and the 10km trip is for people who want more adventure. Not sure which one? Read 5km vs 10km rafting.
2. Canyoning in Kataran-Oya
Trek through the jungle, then slide down natural rock slides, jump into deep pools and rappel along waterfalls. No experience needed, ages 12 and over. Plan your canyoning.
Plan your Kitulgala trip
3. Waterfall abseiling at Sadun Ella
Lower yourself down a waterfall near Belilena Cave with a harness, helmet and trained guides. Beginners are welcome. Plan your abseiling.
4. Bird watching
The forests around Kitulgala are home to endemic birds such as the Sri Lankan Hanging Parrot, Layard’s Parakeet and the Malabar Trogon. [ADD YOUR BIRD WATCHING DETAILS, OR LINK TO A BIRD WATCHING PAGE ONCE YOU HAVE ONE.] Sightings are never guaranteed, because they are wild birds.
5. Rainforest trekking in Makandawa
Walk jungle trails with a guide to hidden waterfalls and quiet forest. Basic fitness is enough. Plan your trek.
Ideas for combining activities
| Plan | Activities | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Action day | Rafting and canyoning | Friends, university groups |
| Nature day | Makandawa trek and bird watching | Families, nature lovers |
| Full adventure day | Rafting, waterfall abseiling and trekking | Groups who want it all |
Combo packages work out from LKR 3,000 per activity. Message us to build your plan.
Prices
Activities start from LKR 5,000 per person. See the full Kitulgala rafting price guide.
Getting to Kitulgala
Kitulgala is about 90 km from Colombo (around 2.5 hours) and about 60 km from Kandy (around 2 hours). See how to get to Kitulgala or plan a day trip from Colombo.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best activity for beginners? 5km white water rafting. No experience is needed.
Can I do more than one activity in a day? Yes. Message us and we will plan it with you.
Is Kitulgala good for groups? Yes. See group rafting in Kitulgala. There is no minimum group size.
What should I bring? Quick-dry clothes, secure shoes, a towel and a change of clothes. See what to wear.
Plan your Kitulgala trip
Message us on WhatsApp +94 71 988 7979 with your date, group size and the activities you like.