Explore the untamed Kelani River by kayak, a sustainable and highly enjoyable way to experience the beautiful countryside of the remote region of Kithulgala. This area lines the southern edge of Sri Lanka’s prolific tea country where cultivated estates and plantations give way to wild woodland.
- Tackle thrilling rapids in a kayak with an expert guide
- Turn the river into your personal playground
- Eat authentic Sri Lankan cuisine by the riverside
What's Included ?
Helmet, Life jackets, lunch
What's Excluded ?
Water shoes, Sandals with an ankle strap or a pair of trainers is a must for the above experiences
With seven high-quality class II and III rapids, temperate waters and mesmerising scenery, the Kelani River is a premier introduction to white-water rafting for both kids and adults. Experience the exhilaration of tackling the currents by canoe, a 6.5km journey that takes between 45 and 90 minutes to complete. Once you’ve caught your breath, travel up the tributary to try your hand at canyoning. After the rapids, you’ll disembark and go on a short forest hike to the canyoning site. This activity turns the rocks and river into your personal playground: jump into plunge pools, try the ‘waterslides’, and wade or hop between potholes. Round-off the experience with gentle rafting on small rapids to suit all ages and a hearty rice and curry lunch overlooking the river.
NB: Prior to each activity, you will receive a comprehensive safety briefing with tips on technique. Your guides are well-qualified and excellent equipment will be provided.
Is white-water rafting on the Kelani River suitable for beginners?
Yes, white-water rafting on the Kelani River is ideal for beginners, including both kids and adults. With class II and III rapids, the river offers a thrilling yet manageable experience for those new to the sport. Comprehensive safety briefings and experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure for all participants.
What is canyoning, and is it suitable for everyone?
Canyoning involves exploring natural water features such as rivers, waterfalls, and rock pools by hiking, climbing, jumping, and swimming. It’s an adventurous activity suitable for those seeking an adrenaline rush and a closer connection to nature. While some basic fitness is required, canyoning can be tailored to suit participants of varying skill levels and ages.
What type of safety measures are in place during the activities?
Prior to each activity, participants receive comprehensive safety briefings covering techniques and procedures. Experienced guides accompany participants throughout the activities, ensuring their safety and providing assistance when needed. High-quality equipment is provided, and safety protocols are strictly adhered to, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
“Our family had an incredible day white-water rafting and canyoning on the Kelani River! As beginners, we were a bit nervous at first, but the experienced guides provided thorough safety briefings and made us feel completely at ease. The rafting experience was exhilarating, with just the right balance of excitement and tranquility as we navigated the rapids. Canyoning was a highlight for us all, exploring the natural wonders of the river and enjoying the thrill of jumping into plunge pools and sliding down natural water slides. The guides were fantastic, ensuring our safety while encouraging us to push our limits and have fun. The day ended with a delicious rice and curry lunch overlooking the river, providing the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable adventure. Highly recommended for families seeking an action-packed day in nature!”
“Our experience white-water rafting and canyoning on the Kelani River was nothing short of amazing! From the moment we arrived, we felt well taken care of by the knowledgeable guides who provided thorough safety briefings and expert instruction. The white-water rafting was exhilarating, with thrilling rapids and breathtaking scenery at every turn. Canyoning was a unique and adventurous experience, allowing us to explore hidden waterfalls and natural rock formations in a truly immersive way. The guides were supportive and encouraging throughout, ensuring that we felt safe while pushing ourselves to try new challenges. The day concluded with a delicious lunch overlooking the river, providing a relaxing end to an action-packed day. We highly recommend this experience to couples looking for a thrilling adventure in the heart of nature!”
