Overview
Kitulgala is a small town located in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, approximately 96 km (60 miles) from the capital city of Colombo. It is known for its scenic beauty, adventure activities, and as the filming location for the 1957 Academy Award-winning film “The Bridge on the River Kwai”.
Adventure Activities
Kitulgala is a popular destination for adventure tourism in Sri Lanka, with the following key activities:
– White Water Rafting – The Kelani River that flows through Kitulgala is renowned for its Class III-IV rapids, making it a premier white water rafting destination.
– Hiking and Trekking – Kitulgala is surrounded by lush rainforests with hiking trails leading to waterfalls, caves, and scenic viewpoints.
– Canyoning – The rocky terrain and waterfalls provide opportunities for canyoning expeditions.
– Zip Lining – Several zip line courses have been set up in the area to allow visitors to soar through the forest canopy.
Other Attractions
In addition to the adventure activities, Kitulgala offers the following attractions:
– Kelani River – The picturesque river is popular for swimming, fishing, and taking boat rides.
– Makandawa Forest Reserve – A protected rainforest area home to diverse flora and fauna.
– Plantation Bungalows – Historic colonial-era tea and rubber plantation bungalows can be visited or even stayed in.
– “Bridge on the River Kwai” Film Location – The 1957 war film was shot on the Kelani River in Kitulgala.
Accessibility
Kitulgala is accessible from Colombo by both private and public transportation:
– By car/taxi – The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours from Colombo.
– By train – The nearest train station is at Ginigathhena, about 20 km from Kitulgala.
– By bus – Regular bus services connect Kitulgala to major cities like Colombo and Kandy.
