We're in a Social
We're in a Social
7th Sep. 2023
The central highlands of Sri Lanka are home to some of the most adventurous waters out there. Beneath the fame of the ancient temples, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes, lies the underrated adventures of white water rafting and canyoning. Dive into the adrenaline rush of these activities with this blog.
Kithulgala is famous for its rafting facilities, and you can usually find several shops along the road that rent boats and guides for the activity. If you’re more of an experienced paddler, the rafting routes along Mahaweli, Kalu Ganga, and Kotmale are ideal as well.
Great for beginners and those that prefer a laid-back ride, you’ll be taken on a one-hour ride where you’ll face some challenging, yet maneuverable waves that even the younger ones can enjoy. There will also be intervals in between where the waters are peaceful, and you can glide through the river in peace enjoying the surreal backdrop that surrounds the river.
An exhilarating two-day journey where experienced paddlers navigate grade 4 and 5 rapids; this route takes you along the Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve and drops into a 20km gorge where the challenge truly begins. The first day will take you through the serenity of the jungle, and the second day will be when you face the tumbles and bumps of the chaotic river.
A convenient one-day trip if you’re stationed in Colombo, Sitawaka River is located adjacent to Kithulgala, and is only a 90-minute ride from the capital. Featuring grade four and five rapids, the turbulence of the initial sections of the river are contrasted with the calm middle portion, you can use this time to absorb the lush landscapes of the forests that encompass the river. The final section of the river picks up on the rapids, with grade 3 and 4 torrents likely being in your way.
Prioritise your safety above all else, and research the reputation of the rafting tour operators before selecting one. It is recommended that you do not embark on the more dangerous waters before you’ve accumulated prior experience navigating canyons and rafts. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing that is quickly drying when on your journey, and the equipment provided by the guides are a must.
While keeping these tips in mind, have the time of your life gliding through the rapids, and utilise a GoPro to capture the memories of your time. If you have further questions about the experiences, check out the informative blogs at So Sri Lanka.
