The Sinharaja and Kitulgala region is one of the best areas for trekking and adventure sports in Sri Lanka.
Moist and muggy, murky and mysterious; an experience of Sinharaja is like nothing else in Sri Lanka. Trekking through this magnificent jungle, the last surviving stretch of virgin rainforest on the island is a treat; immersing yourself in this bewildering land of exotic colours and wonderful sounds is a truly enriching experience. From top to bottom the forest is teeming with life, colour and sound; gushing waterfalls, gurgling streams, rustling leaves and cawing birds combine to stir the senses and relax the mind.
Trekking is also wonderful in Ratnapura, an area of rolling hills, tropical rainforests and winding rivers. Known as the `city of gems’, Ratnapura is home to a tiny but long-established gem industry that still uses traditional methods of mining: blue sapphires, rubies, cat’s eyes and other semi-precious stones are all gathered by hand. Walk by paddy fields scattered with basic mud huts covered with coconut leaf-thatched roofs and see villagers with concave baskets at the river beds, sifting through the soil in search of precious stones.
Kitulgala is a must-visit for those seeking a thrill: canyoning, bouldering and walking activities are all available, as well as the popular white water rafting. Whilst many people are not aware that you can go white water rafting in Sri Lanka, there are a range of options in this area ranging from a one-hour ride down the Kelani River, suitable for beginners, to the ‘experienced paddlers only’ routes down the Kotmale, Mahaweli and Kalu Ganga. Whiz down the river passing tea and rubber plantations and mountains covered in dense jungle.
