How to Ride the Rapids and Experience Sri Lanka's Rivers – A Guide for Nature Lovers and Adventurers

Sri Lanka is often thought of as a tropical destination with a stunning coastline rimmed by the ocean – the perfect setting for beach lovers. However, the island is so diverse in its range of attractions and landscapes. Owing to that diversity, Sri Lanka also offers mountains, waterfalls, and rivers – all calling out to those with adventure in their blood. The country is known for activities such as white-water rafting and river safaris. 

Walawe River Safari 

You know how it is sometimes in tourist destinations: everything is too commercialised and tourist-oriented, and it’s difficult to get a feel of the real thing. The Walawe River Safari is the opposite of that. It’s a unique boat adventure offered by the local community. While it’s not as adventurous as riding the rapids, it does promise you an unforgettable adventure. 

The experience begins in Ambalantota. You’ll arrive in Ambalantota in a tuk-tuk and hop on a boat to float down the amazing Walawe River. All around you are pockets of nature, with seagulls flying above you, cormorants on the riverbank, and the sound of peacocks coming from the jungle. You might even catch sight of a crocodile bobbing in and out of the water. 

About an hour into the river, you’ll stop at a beach where you can go for a walk, sip coconut water, and take some Insta-worthy pictures before hopping back on the boat. Then you’ll continue on until you reach the meeting point of the river and the sea – the most magical sight ever!

Kitulgala 

A small town in Sabaragamuwa Province, Kitulgala packs so much natural beauty and adventure. It’s only three hours from Colombo and about two hours from Kandy. No matter where you’re holidaying in the country, Kitulgala is an easy trip. 

The town sits in the embrace of the Makandawa Rainforest and the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, and the Kelani River flows right through the town. This creates the perfect setting for white-water rafting, which is what the town is most famous for. Both beginners and experts can enjoy white-water rafting here – the rapids are not too wild, not too slow; it’s just right.

Riding the rapids isn’t the only thing you can do in Kitulgala; you can also explore dense jungle trails, do some bird watching, go canyoning, and abseil down waterfalls. The best thing about Kitulgala is that it’s easy to get here from the upcountry. 

If you’re staying in Aarunya Nature Resort, a popular upcountry tourist boutique hotel in Sri Lanka, you can get to Kitulgala in less than three hours. The journey is guaranteed to be full of scenic views and unforgettable moments.

Rehman Abubakr, KitulgalaRafting-March2013-02, CC BY-SA 4.0

Madu River Safari 

This is one of the more popular river adventures in Sri Lanka; it’s a popular recommendation given to tourists visiting the south. 

The Madu River is in Galle District, near Balapitiya, and is known as a biodiversity hotspot. The river flows through some of the most enchanting and lush tunnels of mangrove forests. Along the way, you’ll discover over fifty small islets. 

Some of these islets are home to local fishing communities, while others feature temples and cinnamon farms. Kothduwa Island, for example, is one of the must-visit places. It’s where you’ll find a Buddhist temple with historical and cultural significance. Many tours also include the opportunity to see how cinnamon is harvested and produced, as well as to visit local communities. 

The best thing of all, however, is the wildlife. Your entire journey will be filled with various wildlife encounters. The Madu River and its banks are home to monitor lizards, crocodiles, and birds. While it’s not the most adventurous sort of activity, it definitely is a must-do.

Koggala Lake 

For a mix of adventure, wildlife, local literature, and a bit of romance, head to Koggala. It’s where you can enjoy a boat ride down Koggala Lake. One of the largest lakes in Sri Lanka, Koggala Lake is home to islands and a diversity of aquatic birdlife. 

The typical boat ride lasts about an hour and a half. During that time, you can explore the lake and its islands. Some of these islands feature temples, while others grow cinnamon. One of the most famous is Madol Duwa, an island made famous by the novel Madol Duwa. The story follows two boys who leave home and start living on the island. 

Today, Madol Duwa is among the most popular places visited by both locals and tourists. You can explore the island, see birds, and imagine how tranquil it must have been living on the island for the two characters in the book.