Kitulagala, Sri Lankas most popular site of Whitewater rafting and river expeditions is located on the banks of River Kelani Ganga, at a distance of 95km from Colombo, lining the A7 main road that winds and ascends spectacularly to reach Sri Lanka Holidays Nuwara Eliya of Central Highlands via Ginigathehena and Hatton. While 62km northeast [on A5 main road via Gampola] of Kitulgala is Kandy, 44km south east, on B328 motor road is Nagadipa Vihara of Nalatanye, a gateway [distance of 6km; ascent is 1000 meters] to Adams Peak Sri Pada. Sri Lanka Holidays tourists [locals as well as foreigners] are attracted to a stretch of wild waters of River Kelani Ganga around the village of Kitulgala, well known also for its Kitul Palm also called fish-tail palm, toddy palm (Caryota urens) syrup production. For the birders and ornithologists, Kitulgala is irresistible too: 38 species of birds are found here. For the photographic enthusiasts, the ever green rainforest of every hue and tone of green, serves endless landscapes. The combination of fast paced rapids, tranquility of the Kitulgala forest reserve, the traditional lifestyle of the villagers, well organized on-site Whitewater rafting operators at Kitulgala most of the people are occupied with water sports around the river. tourists visiting this nature and soft adventure attraction of Sri Lanka all round the year.
The scenery
Kitulgala is a small peaceful village set about halfway of the scenic main road descending gently from the hill country (Central highlands) to wet lowlands. The village is well known for its Kitul Pani (Kitul palm honey) production to o. It's a beautiful setting; the scenery is particularly dramatic hereabouts, with sheer-sided, thick rainforest-covered hills plunging down to the wild waters of River Kelani.
Remember the film “The Bridge over the River Kwai”, it is here the bridge for the film set was built. The beautiful tributary of the Kelani River, over which the bridge was built is still attracting fans to the town. Other attractions include Keleni Forest Reserve a bird watching location, waterfall abseiling and jungle trekking.
