Kitulgala
Kegalle, Sabaragamuwa
Kitulgala owes its fame to the Kelani River, which cuts through boulder-strewn gorges here to create the country's best whitewater rafting, with rapids ranging from beginner-friendly to genuinely challenging. The town also holds a slice of film history: David Lean shot his Oscar-winning 1957 epic The Bridge on the River Kwai on a calm stretch of this same river, though nothing of the original set remains today beyond concrete foundations. Beyond rafting, the surrounding rainforest reserve is one of the more accessible spots in Sri Lanka for birdwatching, including species found almost nowhere else on the island.
Best time to visit
October to January, after the southwest monsoon has passed, for reliable water levels without dangerous flooding.
Visitor tip
Use a licensed rafting operator for river activities and check local river conditions before going.
Local pick
Ask a local guide to point out where the Bridge on the River Kwai set once stood — there's little to see, but the story of the film shoot is one most rafting guides know well.
Quick answers
Where is Kitulgala?
Kitulgala is in Kegalle, Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Kitulgala?
October to January, after the southwest monsoon has passed, for reliable water levels without dangerous flooding.
How far is Kitulgala from Colombo?
About 61 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.
What is near Kitulgala?
Nearby places include Laxapana Falls (about 16 km away), Adam's Peak (Sri Pada) (about 23 km away), Ambuluwawa Tower (about 23 km away), Devon Falls (about 28 km away).
Add to my itineraryNearby places
- Laxapana FallsNuwara Eliya
- Adam's Peak (Sri Pada)Nuwara Eliya
- Ambuluwawa TowerKandy
- Devon FallsNuwara Eliya
More places in Sabaragamuwa Province
Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.