Rafting and canyoning are just two of the hugely original ways in which you can explore Sri Lanka. Whether aboard an inflatable boat or directly in the water, you can let yourself be carried along by the current of the Kelani River. Splashing, laughter and adventure are all firmly on the agenda for this unique excursion. 

An outing in the heart of nature

The Kelani River is 145 km long and is the fourth largest river in the country. It rises at the foot of the renowned Adam's Peak and flows to the economic capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo. But it is near the town of Kitulgala that the landscape around it becomes grandiose. A breathtaking panorama where the wooded cliffs sink into the tumultuous waters.

Here, birds live in a protected sanctuary. And by glancing upwards, you can enjoy sights including the Green-billed Coucal, the Red-faced Malcoha and the long-billed Grey Hornbill. Whilst, nestled in the foliage, small and large lizards lay in wait. The sheer magic of this location has not escaped Hollywood. It was here that the Oscar-winning film "Bridge on the River Kwai" was shot. Today, the building specially built for filming has gone. But the lush natural setting is very much still present.

Taking on the rapids

The meeting point is indicated in advance.  At the allotted time, the instructor awaits the day's adventurers. Firstly, everyone is provided with all the necessary safety equipment. First and foremost it is about having fun, but safety is paramount. Once the life jacket and helmet are on, it's off to the forest in a pick-up truck. The landscape passes by and it is sometimes possible to catch a fleeting glimpse of the river through the trees. Only a few minutes left before we can finally jump on in. Upon arrival at destination, everyone approaches the shore and listens carefully to the instructions. How to row, when to row, which way to row and what to do if you fall in the water are all covered in the greatest of detail. And then, the adventure can finally begin.

On board the boat, the crew enters the current. The first tugs are made on the oars. And the descent slowly begins, leaving time to admire the spectacular scenery. The whistling of birds can sometimes be heard over the lapping of the water. Then suddenly the rapids appear in the distance. The instructor orders everyone to row harder. And so the adrenaline builds slowly The boat is shaken, the sailors of a day soaked but it is in the laughter that the raft continues its descent. Further down, a moment of calm gives the opportunity to jump into the water. A well-deserved refreshing break after all those thrills. 

Canyoning or rafting? Or why not both

Those who prefer to spend the day in the water can opt for canyoning. In the heart of the forest, you can head off to discover the river and its landscapes by foot. The walk is interspersed with jumps into natural pools. At the location indicated by the guide, everyone sets off trying to perform the most beautiful antics. We are afraid, we drink a little bit sometimes, but mostly we have fun.

Along the way, it is also possible to try abseiling down a waterfall. Equipped with a harness and firmly attached to the wall, the adventurers think they are spiders for the duration of a few metres of descent. The flow that looked so beautiful from afar reveals all its power once you are immersed in it. It is also the force of the water which, year after year, has marked the rocks of the river. Some have been polished by the current and have become smooth enough to serve as natural slides. Sitting in the hollow pierced by the torrent, you can slide down to the next pool. Fun, thrills and dreamlike scenery... Canyoning in the Kelani River is a trip you simply won't forget.  

Who can go rafting and canyoning on the Kelani River?

For both activities, no particular level is required. 

Rafting can even be enjoyed from the age of 10. Indeed, on the river, there are 3 classes of rapids. Depending on the experience of the participants, different routes can be taken. The beginners' tours focus on the simplest passages. The intermediate level trips offer the possibility of tackling more impressive falls. Be that as it may, there is no need for any great physical strength. For canyoning, the minimum age may however be increased to 14 years old. This is especially true for trips involving abseiling. This will be indicated by the organiser of the activity.