White Water Rafting is an interesting, exhilarating water sport and a challenging water activity. It is said that White Water Rafting does not demand great physical strength but perseverance and a strong spirit of never giving up is required. White Water Rafting is generally done not only in white waters but also in other turbulent waters. Since it is thrilling and adventures experience to the lovers and enthusiasts of water sports.
All equipment such as personal flotation device, a necessary outfit which necessary for water rafting: in case of emergency to save you from drowning if you fall overboard will be provided.
It is not recommended to engage in White Water Rafting for those who suffer due to heart ailments, diseases, epilepsy and specially those who are not comfortable with turbulent waters. Some of the rivers are recognized as suitable and ideal for recreational activities as such as white water rafting, river crossing etc. for those who are interested in water sports.
Kitualgala being a small town in Sri Lanka has become the most famous place for White Water Rafting.
River Grade Rafting Time
Kithulgala / Kelani River 2 – 3 rapids 2 hrs
Sitawaka 3 – 4 rapids 2-2.5 hrs
Mahaweli 3 – 5 rapids 3-3.5 hrs
About Kitulgala
Kitulgala is located on the A7 main road that runs from Colombo to NuwaraEliya via Avissawela and about 75 KM away from Colombo. Kithulagala is a small town located in the West of the Island. It gets two monsoons each year as it is located in the wet zone rain forest. The Name Kithulgala is derived from the Kitul palm tree which is popular in this territory and the Kitul sap used for production of jiggery and palm wine.
Kithulagala is one of the most famous places for White Water Rafting and a popular location for adventure based training programs for both locals and foreigners.
The movie: The Bridge on the River Kwai of David Lean: the Academy Award-winning was filmed on the Kelani River near Kitulgala in 1957. The movie location was at a calm stretch in the River Kelani between two rocky outcrops and still the remnants of the bridge constructed for the movie can be witnessed.
River Kelani at Kitulgala
River flaws via Kitulgala is the ideal place for White Water Rafting and gives an outstanding and splendid view of the river and greenish scenery of the area. The place is suitable for both beginners of White Water Rafting as well as experts on this adventurous sport.
Kitulgala Town and its Surroundings
The town of Ktiulgala is located along the Kelani River. Tall bamboo tress grown and greenery bushes spread along the river add more colours and glamour to Kithulgala.
Bird Watching at Kitulgala
Kithulgala is not only famous for White Water Rafting but also for Bird Watching. Oceans of nature lovers both locals and tourists are attracted to Kithulgala in order to view birdlife in the Kitulgala Forest Reserve. Most of the birds such as Orange-billed babbler, Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Spot-winged Thrush, Green-billed Coucal and Chestnut-bakced owlet found in Sinharaja Rain Forest can be witnessed and seen in Kutulgala also.
Kitulgala Rapids
It is about 6.5 Km distance run within 90 minutes with five rapids graded 2 and 3 by the names of Head Chopper, Virgin’s Breast, Butter Crunch, Killer Fall and the Rib Cage. White Water Rafting with modern rafts equipped with safety gear is safe for even kids over 10 years in age.
The Best Period for White Water Rafting at Kitulgala
The time period May to December is the best and perfect time to enjoy White Water Rafting at Kithulgala. White Water Rafting becomes unsafe and dangerous during the periods of heavy rain. Even during the rainy season, you may enjoy White Water Rafting provided the water level drops and the river turns to its regular state.
Black Rafting at Kitulgala
Black Water Rafting at Kitulgala refers to rafting during three nights with all equipment: a headlight, safety gear and etc. This is a heightened sense of adventure for absolute water rafting lovers and experts.
White Water Rafting – higher grade Rapids in Sri Lanka
Hatton – NuwaraEliya: River Kotmale consists of grade 4 and 5 rapids.
Sithawaka River off Avissawella consists of grade 3 and 4 rapids;
Ulapane – Gampola: River Mahaweli consists of grade 3 and 4;
White Water Rafting Levels of Difficulty
White Water Rafting is categorized in 6 Levelstaking into consideration of the difficulties and dangers posed: they range from applicable to beginners to experts and simple to very dangerous and potential death or serious injuries.
Level 1:(Skill Level: Very Basic)
Moving water with small waves and very small rough areas, it is relaxing and might require slight maneuvering.
Level 2: (Skill level: basic paddling skill)
Easy rapids and some rough water, maybe some rocks and roll, waves up to three feet tall and might require some maneuvering.
Level 3: (Skill level: experienced paddling skills)
Waves up to 4 feet tall, White Water, small waves, maybe a small drop, boat shimmying and water gushing over its sides. but no considerable danger but plenty of excitement mingled with fun. May require significant maneuvering.
Level 4: (Skill level: White Water Rafting experience)
White Water, long, difficult rapids, medium waves, narrow passages, maybe rocksand a considerable drop. Sharp maneuvering skills are required.
Level 5: (Skill level: advanced White Water Rafting experience)
White Water, large waves, twisting and spinning, large volume, gushing rapids, possibility of large rocks and hazards, possibility of a large drop, requires precise maneuvering.
Level 6:
The extreme un-runnable rivers and waterfalls. Rapids that aren’t navigable, only for most expert. This grade isn’t undertaken by adventure tour operators at all.
