Considered one of the most engaging water sporting activities on the planet, white water rafting is fast gaining pace as one of the world’s premier recreational pastimes. Requiring no specific skill and fitness level, this seemingly challenging sport is accessible to most individuals with an adventurous spirit and ‘can-do’ attitude! Due to its increasing popularity certain destinations across the world have been dubbed white water rafting hotspots and the hilltop hideaway of Kitulgala in Sri Lanka is no different.
Considered the best white water rafting area in this island paradise, the charming hamlet of Kitulgala is a verdant landscape littered with tropical foliage, thick jungles and its fair share of cascades and water bodies. Crisscrossed by the Kelani River at various junctures, this seemingly sleepy town is a hotbed of activity during the month of May as the area is teeming with white water rafting enthusiasts from across the world.
Located a mere 80 kms from the commercial capital Colombo, Kitulgala is perhaps best known as the shooting location for David Lean’s 1957 Oscar winning film “Bridge on the River Kwai”. But this idyllic setting flanked by towering green hills is also ideal for white water rafting as the Kelani River is obstructed by several imposing boulders in the area, creating perfectly thrilling conditions for a challenging but secure rafting experience. Bordered by lush tropical beauty, the rapids available at Kitulgala are suitable for novice rafters and seasoned experts alike.
Composed of 90 minute runs which stretch across 6.5 kms, the white water rafting excursions at Kitulgala will pass through at least five grade two or three rapids. Curiously named Butter Crunch, Head Chopper, Rib Cage and Killer Fall, the rapids along the Kelani River are sufficiently safe for even children to navigate. The rafts will pick up speed as they approach Head Chopper on a channel in the right hand shores of the river as tree branches and other obstacles threaten to obstruct the path of the raft’s decent.
The period between May and December are deemed ideal for rafting activities while aptly named ‘black water rafting excursions’ consisting of night time rafting with headlights takes place on full moon nights for adrenalin junkies who dare to sign up for this unique nocturnal adventure!
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