Kithulgala
Feel the Rush in Kitulgala — White Water, Wild Trails & Wonders.
About Kithulgala
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka's hill country, Kithulgala is a hidden gem that caters to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those in search of tranquility. This picturesque destination offers a diverse range of activities and natural beauty that make it a must-visit spot for travelers.
Hiding among the rich landscapes of the hill country, Kithulgala is a haven for adventurous souls, peace seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Famous for white water rafting, the area also offers ample opportunities for many other adventurous activities such as bird watching, trekking, abseiling, zipline rides, camping, picnicking and more. The pristine nature of Kithulgala leaves people in awe at every corner, offering an oasis of serenity to connect with nature and unwind. Being a location in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai', visitors can still see the remains of the bridge used in the film.Location & Information
Everything you need to know about getting to and around Kithulgala.
Quick Facts
Province
Sabaragamuwa Province
Distance
The distance between Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Katunayake and Kitulgala is approximately 82.3 km by road.
Nearest major city
The closest major town to Kitulgala is Avissawella, which is approximately 40 kilometers away.
Climate
Kitulgala, Sri Lanka, has a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high humidity and consistent rainfall throughout the year. The area experiences a wet season influenced by the southwest monsoon from May to September and a relatively drier period from January to March. Even during the drier months, some rainfall is still likely.
Elevation
approximately 500 feet above sea level
Key Highlights of Kithulgala
White‑Water Rafting Adventure
- Navigate 5–7 rapids (Grade II–III) over a 5–6.5 km stretch of the Kelani River.
- Experience thrilling rapids like 'Killer Fall' and 'Rib Cage', with refreshing swims in calmer pools.
Canyoning & Waterfall Abseiling
- Slide down natural rock chutes and plunge into waterfall pools on a canyoning route.
- Enjoy waterfall rappelling along jungle-overhung cascades.
Jungle Trekking & Birdwatching
- Hike lush trails through rainforest, explore streams, caves, and the Kataran Oya gorge.
- Spot rainforest species—from toques and purple‑faced monkeys to hornbills and eagles.
Zip‑Lining & Confidence Jumps
- Fly over rainforest and river on a zip‑line canopy course.
- Take the plunge with ‘confidence jumps’ into deep jungle pools.
Historic Film Location
- Visit the original filming site of *The Bridge on the River Kwai*.
Camping & Riverside Chill
- Camp beside the Kelani River or under forest canopy—swap stories around the fire.
Getting to and Around Kithulgala
By Train
Take the scenic Colombo–Kandy railway line and get off at Hatton or Avissawella, then continue by bus or taxi to Kitulgala.
Book Train TicketsBy Bus
Frequent buses run from Colombo to Hatton via Avissawella, passing through Kitulgala. Budget-friendly but may get crowded.
Book Train TicketsBy Taxi
Private taxis and ride-hailing options from Colombo or Bandaranaike Airport offer the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kitulgala.
Book Train TicketsTravel Tips
- Carry a waterproof bag to protect your belongings during white-water rafting.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for hiking and wet conditions.
- Leech socks are recommended when trekking through the rainforest.
- Travel early in the morning to enjoy activities before afternoon rains.
- Cash is useful as some local shops and eateries may not accept cards.
Featured Tours in Kithulgala
Discover the best experiences and activities that Kithulgala has to offer with our handpicked selection of tours.
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