The White water rafting in Kitulgala, Sri Lanka, is one of the most thrilling adventure experiences the island has to offer. Located about 90 km from Colombo, Kitulgala is a lush rainforest region known for its scenic beauty and the Kelani River — the island’s premier white water rafting destination. The river gained fame as the filming location for the classic movie The Bridge on the River Kwai, and today it attracts both local and international adventure seekers. Rafting in Kitulgala offers an exciting blend of adrenaline and natural beauty. The journey typically covers a 5 km stretch of the river with up to grade 2–3 rapids, suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. Surrounded by tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and birdsong, the experience combines adventure with the serenity of nature. Apart from rafting, Kitulgala offers other outdoor activities like canyoning, waterfall abseiling, rainforest trekking, and natural rock pool swimming. It’s an ideal day trip for families, groups, or solo travelers looking to experience the wild side of Sri Lanka. Whether you’re navigating the foamy rapids or floating through calm waters, white water rafting in Kitulgala promises an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement and breathtaking scenery.
Exciting white water rafting in Kitulgala
Canyoning and waterfall abseiling
Rainforest trekking and cave exploration
Scenic drive through hill country
Cultural tour of Kandy
Begin your adventure tour in Sri Lanka with a warm welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport. Meet your driver and transfer to the lush rainforest town of Kitulgala, the island’s top white water rafting destination. Check in to your riverside eco-lodge and unwind by the scenic Kelani River. Enjoy dinner surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Overnight: Kitulgala
After breakfast, experience the thrill of white water rafting in Kitulgala along the Kelani River’s 5 km stretch with grade 2–3 rapids. Continue with body rafting or a calm river float. In the afternoon, enjoy optional canyoning or waterfall abseiling for an extra dose of adrenaline.
Overnight: Kitulgala
Explore the Makandawa Rainforest Reserve, home to exotic wildlife, lush greenery, and sparkling waterfalls. Visit Belilena Cave, an ancient archaeological site dating back over 30,000 years. End the day with a refreshing river swim.
Overnight: Kitulgala
After breakfast, travel to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. En route, stop at a tea plantation and learn about Ceylon tea production. In the evening, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and take a relaxing stroll around Kandy Lake.
Overnight: Kandy
Spend your final morning exploring Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, famous for its orchid collection. Later, transfer to Colombo or Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey.
Yes. All rafting tours are guided by trained professionals with safety gear provided, including helmets and life jackets. It’s suitable for beginners and families.
The best time is from May to December, when water levels are ideal and the weather is pleasant. Rafting is possible year-round depending on rainfall.
The Kelani River features grade 2–3 rapids, which offer an exciting but safe experience for both beginners and intermediate rafters.
Light, quick-drying clothes, water shoes or sandals, and sunscreen are recommended. Avoid heavy clothing and valuables.
Yes, children above 10 years can usually participate under adult supervision. Families can also opt for a shorter or easier route.
Yes! You can enjoy canyoning, waterfall abseiling, rainforest trekking, and explore the historic Belilena Cave nearby.
Sri Lanka, often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a small island nation that packs a big punch when it comes to travel experiences. From UNESCO World Heritage sites and stunning mountain views to golden beaches and thrilling wildlife encounters, this tropical paradise has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or beach lover, you’ll find plenty of unforgettable things to do in Sri Lanka.
read more There are many reasons why travelers worldwide trust us as their Sri Lanka travel agent:
✅ Experienced and licensed Sri Lanka tour operator
✅ Customizable private tours tailored to your needs
✅ Professional driver-guides with local expertise
✅ Comfortable vehicles and safe transport
✅ 24/7 support throughout your journey
✅ Affordable packages with premium service quality
We combine professional service with authentic experiences so you can travel confidently, knowing every detail is taken care of.
With a friend we have made a one week tour in Sri Lanka. We went at Colombo, Pinnawala, Harabana, Sirigia, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Bentota. Every day schedule was full and we get some surprise and great sight. Place to see and guide kind and calm to travel with to relax and enjoy the country.
Reliable company.
Very nice 9-days trip with Dream Round Tour.
We were visiting Sri Lanka two weeks ago, in March 2017, and had really good experience with Mr.Samantha and Mr.Tusharha Dream Round Tour travel agency.
Mr. Samantha was really quick in responding and handling all our specific requests, he sent us itinerary in advance and after confirming it he booked hotels and managed meeting us at the airport in Colombo
For the accuracy and perfect travel plan with great hotels, comfortable and clean car and with reliable driver - I would recommend Dream Round Tour to everyone and would use this Mr. Samantha´s travel agency glad again. I am convinced we will come again to Sri Lanka - nice green country and friendly people!!!
Milan and Zuzana Piskulovi. Czech republic
We were a family of 7 who travelled with Dream Round Tours for a 10days trip in Sept 2017. Samantha was our guide and Chandi was our driver. Prior to the trip, Samantha ensured everything was planned in detail and answered all our questions patiently. During the trip, Samantha and Chandi were extremely patient and took care of all our needs. They did not complain even when we ended pretty late on certain days. They were easy going and made sure that there were no hiccups during our holiday. We will definitely recommend Dream Round Tours to anyone who want to experience the best of Sri Lanka. In Dream Round Tours we trust!
We travel to Sri Lanka with our family a group of 20. Mr.Samantha gives us all the support during the inquiry. Mr. Thushra our tour guide really very good person and full fill our needs during the tour. Our Family really enjoys the trip. Thushra and his team did not complain even when we ended pretty late on certain days. We will definitely recommend Dream Round Tours to anyone who want to experience the best of Sri Lanka.Thanks to Samantha, Thushra and not forgot our driver Banthu and the assistant. In Dream Round Tours we trust!
Are you ready to plan your dream trip? Let us be your Sri Lanka tour operator and trusted travel agent in Sri Lanka. Together, we’ll create a journey filled with unforgettable memories.
Email us using our simple form and we'll respond within 1 working days.