Kitulgala, Sri Lanka: A Simple Travel Guide for Nature and Adventure Lovers
Kitulgala is a small, beautiful town in the hills of Sri Lanka, surrounded by green forests and the Kelani River. It’s a great place for people who love nature, adventure, and a little bit of history. If you like exciting outdoor fun or just want to relax in a peaceful place, Kitulgala is perfect for you.
Where Is Kitulgala?
Kitulgala is in the Sabaragamuwa Province in central-west Sri Lanka. It is about 82 kilometers from Colombo.
How to Get There:
- By Car or Taxi: You can drive from Colombo in about 1.5 hours. The road is beautiful with hills and tea fields.
- By Bus: Take a bus from Colombo to Kegalle, then take another small bus or tuk-tuk to Kitulgala.
- By Train: Get off at the Avissawella train station. Then take a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach Kitulgala.
Find it on Google Maps: Kitulgala, Sri Lanka
Why Visit Kitulgala?
Kitulgala is known as Sri Lanka’s top place for adventure activities. You can go rafting, hiking, swimming, and more—all in a green, jungle setting.
Top Places to See:
- Kelani River: The main river where people go white-water rafting. The rapids are fun and safe for beginners too.
- Belilena Cave: A very old cave where people lived 12,000 years ago. You can hike to the cave and enjoy amazing views.
- Waterfalls: Visit waterfalls like Nalagana Ella, Handun Ella, and Laxapana Falls. You can swim, take photos, or just relax there.
- Makandawa Forest: A protected jungle full of birds, plants, and animals. A peaceful place for walking and birdwatching.
- Movie Fact: A famous movie called The Bridge on the River Kwai was filmed here in 1957.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season:
December to March is the best time. It’s sunny and great for outdoor activities.
Rainy Season:
April to November is rainy. The river gets stronger, which is better for adventure rafting.
Weather:
- Warm all year: 25°C to 30°C
- Often humid, especially in the forest
Fun Things to Do
For Adventure Lovers:
- Rafting: Ride the river’s rapids—exciting and safe for most people.
- Canyoning & Abseiling: Climb down waterfalls and natural rocks.
- Jungle Hiking: Walk to high places like Wewalthalawa Plateau or Dothaloya View Point.
For Nature Lovers:
- Birdwatching: See rare birds like the crimson-backed flameback and Sri Lanka spurfowl.
- Camping: Sleep near the river under the stars. Some camps offer bonfires and meals.
- Swimming & Tubing: Float on the river or swim in calm spots.
Where to Stay
There are many places to stay in Kitulgala:
- Eco Lodges: Simple and close to nature. Good for travelers on a budget.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable places with nice views and easy access to activities.
- Luxury Resorts: Beautiful resorts in the jungle with pools and private views.
Travel Tips
- Use a Guide: Always go with a trained guide for rafting or jungle hikes.
- Phone Signal: Works in most places but can be weak in the deep forest.
- Bring Cash: Most small shops don’t accept cards.
- What to Pack: Light clothes, waterproof shoes, insect spray, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
Final Thoughts
Kitulgala is a peaceful and exciting place. You can enjoy wild rivers, old caves, rare birds, and quiet forests. Whether you come for one day or a few nights, you will have fun and make great memories.
So bring your sense of adventure—and maybe your swimsuit too—and get ready to explore one of Sri Lanka’s best nature spots!