Kitulgala

Sri Lanka's adventure capital, famous for white-water rafting on the Kelani River. Surrounded by rainforest and waterfalls, this filming location of 'The Bridge on the River Kwai' offers rafting, canyoning, jungle hikes, and tranquil eco-lodge accommodations.

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Kitulgala

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Sri Lanka's Coastal Gem

Kitulgala is Sri Lanka's adventure capital, famous for white-water rafting on the Kelani River. Surrounded by rainforest, waterfalls, and caves, it's also where parts of The Bridge on the River Kwai were filmed. Adventure lovers flock here for rafting, canyoning, jungle hikes, and birdwatching. Kitulgala is also home to endemic species and hidden archaeological sites. Despite its adventure vibe, the area offers tranquil eco-lodges for rest and rejuvenation between thrill-seeking.

Best Time
Year-round
Experience Category
Nature
Cultural Celebrations
Sinhala & Tamil New Year (April)
Kitulgala eco-fair (community-run events)
Seasonal Highlights
Rafting peak: May - December (wet season)
Birding best: January - March

Best Time
Year-round
Experience Category
Nature
Cultural Celebrations
Sinhala & Tamil New Year (April)
Kitulgala eco-fair (community-run events)
Seasonal Highlights
Rafting peak: May - December (wet season)
Birding best: January - March

Must see attractions

Discover the archaeological wonders and breathtaking experiences that make Sigiriya one of the world's most remarkable ancient sites.

Kelani River
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Makandawa Rainforest Reserve
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Belilena Cave (prehistoric site)
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Waterfalls and streams
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Scenic mountain views
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
River Kwai film location
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Natural rock pools
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Bamboo forests
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Caves and bat colonies
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Village farms and rubber estates
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.

Kelani River
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Makandawa Rainforest Reserve
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Belilena Cave (prehistoric site)
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Waterfalls and streams
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Scenic mountain views
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
River Kwai film location
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Natural rock pools
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Bamboo forests
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Caves and bat colonies
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Village farms and rubber estates
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Kelani River
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Makandawa Rainforest Reserve
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Belilena Cave (prehistoric site)
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Waterfalls and streams
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Scenic mountain views
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
River Kwai film location
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Natural rock pools
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Bamboo forests
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Caves and bat colonies
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Village farms and rubber estates
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Kelani River
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Makandawa Rainforest Reserve
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Belilena Cave (prehistoric site)
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Waterfalls and streams
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Scenic mountain views
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
River Kwai film location
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Natural rock pools
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Bamboo forests
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Caves and bat colonies
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Village farms and rubber estates
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Kelani River
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Makandawa Rainforest Reserve
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Belilena Cave (prehistoric site)
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Waterfalls and streams
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Scenic mountain views
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
River Kwai film location
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Natural rock pools
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Bamboo forests
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Caves and bat colonies
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.
Village farms and rubber estates
Rich in history and cultural significance for the local community.

Gallery

Experience the magnificence of Sri Lanka's ancient Lion Rock

through captivating imagery

Signature Experiences

Discover curated journeys designed to awaken your senses and immerse you in the soul of Sri Lanka.

Go white-water rafting

Visitors rate this as one of the top activities in the area.

Hike to Belilena Cave

Locals recommend this activity for an authentic experience.

Go canyoning and waterfall abseiling

Locals recommend this activity for an authentic experience.

Birdwatching in the rainforest

A memorable experience not to be missed during your visit.

Take nature walks and jungle treks

Provides insight into the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Swim in clear jungle pools

Locals recommend this activity for an authentic experience.

Kayak along the river

Locals recommend this activity for an authentic experience.

Zipline through the trees

A memorable experience not to be missed during your visit.

Stay in eco-lodges and treehouses

Perfect for creating lifelong memories of your journey.

Stay in eco-lodges and treehouses

Perfect for creating lifelong memories of your journey.

Stay in eco-lodges and treehouses

Perfect for creating lifelong memories of your journey.

Join a guided rainforest night walk

A memorable experience not to be missed during your visit.

Tread softly. Discover wildly.

Sri Lanka’s hidden trails invite you to journey on foot—into its forests, waterfalls, and moments of quiet awe.

Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs

Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs

Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs
Makandawa Rainforest Loop
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
3 km
1 hrs
Belilena Cave Trail
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
7 km
5 hrs

Ready to Explore With Us?

Let Ceylon Quest's expert guides take you on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's most iconic ancient wonder. Book your Sigiriya adventure today and discover the Lion Rock's secrets.

Contact Ucha Lanka

+94 77 2211334