The outdoor life is very much on the agenda for families looking for things to do around the riverside settlement of Kitulgala. The Kelani river is wide but mostly shallow here which has encouraged its development as a river-sports centre with activities like canoeing, tubing and white-water rafting both popular. You can also explore Belelina Cave, which is about 5 kms away from the town and a place where prehistoric skeletal remains have been found of “Balangoda man,” deemed to be around 12,000 years old.
If your family really loves canoeing then you can even take on an exciting four-day canoe journey down the Mahaweli River. Your introductory day is spent on the Kelani where you are taught basic safety techniques before you are transferred to the Mahaweli. The adventure is normally limited to children of 12 years and older, although there is some licence for those who are particularly physically able for their age.
Sri Lanka Canoe Expedition
Kitulgala, Sinharaja & Kitulgala
Canoe down the Mahaweli River from Kitulgala to Polonnaruwa with a guide, and spend three nights camping under the stars. This is a magical expedition which takes you through some of Sri Lanka’s most remote areas.
Duration: 3 nights / 4 days
Best time: Year-round
White-Water Rafting and Canoeing
Kitulgala, Sinharaja & Kitulgala
Enjoy an exciting rafting adventure in a jungle paradise. The Kelani River is famous for its white-water rafting and boasts rapids suitable for beginners and those with more experience.
Duration: 3 hours
Best time: Year-round
