Kitulgala: Whitewater Rafting With Lunch From Colombo!

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, Kitulgala beckons adventure-seekers with its renowned whitewater rafting experience. Just a short drive from Colombo, this thrilling excursion promises an adrenaline-fueled journey through Grade 2-3 rapids, perfect for beginners and experienced rafters alike. With a team of expert guides, stunning natural landscapes, and a delectable lunch, this tour offers an unforgettable day of outdoor excitement. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure or a heart-pounding challenge, the rapids of Kitulgala await, ready to captivate and inspire.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Lunch Experiences In Colombo.

Contents hide

1 Activity Overview

2 Price and Duration

3 Live Tour Guide and Cancellation

4 Whitewater Rafting Highlights

5 Participant Suitability

6 Inclusions and Provisions

7 Booking Information

8 Getting There

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Whitewater rafting experience in Kitulgala, a short drive from Colombo, with a duration of approximately 5 hours and starting from $115 per person.
Suitable for adventurous families and small groups, with rapids classified as Grade 2-3, including Virgins Breast, Killer Falls, Butter Crunch, and Head Chopper.
Package includes pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and a delicious lunch.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, with a hassle-free cancellation policy and a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.
Adventure includes scenic views, teamwork development, and an unforgettable whitewater rafting experience, with a convenient 2-hour drive from Colombo Harbour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Whitewater rafting in Kitulgala, just a short drive from Colombo, offers an exhilarating adventure for visitors. The activity is priced from $115.00 per person and lasts around 5 hours.

Beginners are welcome as no prior experience is required. The rapids are classified as Grade 2-3, including thrilling sections like Virgins Breast, Killer Falls, Butter Crunch, and Head Chopper.

Travelers can enjoy this activity during a layover in Colombo. The package includes pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, the cost of rafting, lunch, and all taxes.

It’s not recommended for pregnant women, but it’s perfect for adventurous families and small groups seeking an adrenaline-filled experience.

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Price and Duration

The whitewater rafting adventure in Kitulgala costs $115.00 or more per person and lasts around 5 hours. This thrilling excursion is suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, as the rapids are classified as Grade 2-3 on the international scale.

Some of the exciting features along the way include:

Virgins Breast
Killer Falls
Butter Crunch
Head Chopper
Ideal for short layovers in Colombo

The price includes pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking local guide, the cost of the rafting activity, a provided lunch, and all applicable taxes and fees.

This adventure is perfect for families and small groups seeking an adrenaline-filled experience during their time in Colombo.

Live Tour Guide and Cancellation

An English-speaking local adventure guide accompanies participants throughout the whitewater rafting experience.

The guide provides clear instructions and ensures the safety of the group as they navigate the rapids. Their expertise helps beginners feel confident and enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting.

Plus, travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance. The flexible cancellation policy gives customers peace of mind when booking their adventure, allowing them to change their plans if needed.

Whether you’re an experienced rafter or trying it for the first time, the knowledgeable guide and hassle-free cancellation make this an attractive option for your Colombo layover.

Whitewater Rafting Highlights

Thrilling rapids, including Virgins Breast, Killer Falls, Butter Crunch, and Head Chopper, await participants on this whitewater rafting adventure. This experience is suitable for beginners, as no prior experience is required. The rapids are classified as Grade 2-3, providing an exhilarating yet manageable challenge.

Highlights of the rafting tour include:

Navigating through heart-pumping whitewater
Admiring the lush, green surroundings of Kitulgala
Experiencing the adrenaline rush of tackling challenging rapids
Developing teamwork and communication skills with your crew
Enjoying a delicious lunch after the rafting adventure

Whether you’re seeking an exciting short layover activity or an adventurous day trip from Colombo, this whitewater rafting tour is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.

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Participant Suitability

This whitewater rafting adventure is not suitable for pregnant women, but it is recommended for families and small groups seeking an adrenaline-filled experience. The rapids are classified as Grade 2-3, offering a thrilling yet manageable challenge for beginners. While no prior experience is required, participants should be in good physical condition and comfortable in the water.

Suitable for	Not Suitable for
Families	Pregnant Women
Small Groups	Individuals with limited mobility
Adventurous Travelers	Those with heart/medical conditions
Beginners	Elderly individuals

The journey includes navigating through exciting rapids like the Virgins Breast, Killer Falls, Butter Crunch, and Head Chopper, ensuring an unforgettable day of whitewater fun.

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Inclusions and Provisions

The whitewater rafting experience in Kitulgala includes comprehensive provisions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable adventure. Participants receive pickup and drop-off transportation from Colombo Harbour in an air-conditioned vehicle, along with the services of an English-speaking local adventure guide.

The cost of the whitewater rafting activity is covered, and a delicious lunch is provided during the excursion. All applicable taxes, fees, and handling charges are also included in the package.

The whitewater rafting experience offers:

Thrilling rapids classified as Grade 2-3
Picturesque scenery along the Kelani River
Suitable for beginners with no prior experience
Ideal for short layovers in Colombo
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Booking Information

To secure your spot for the whitewater rafting adventure, you can reserve now and pay later.

Participants can check availability for starting times and select the option that best suits their needs. The activity is popular, so booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability on your preferred date.

The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, providing flexibility if plans change.

Once you’ve booked, you can look forward to an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience in the heart of Kitulgala, just a short drive from Colombo.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s thrilling natural landscapes.

Getting There

Reaching the whitewater rafting site in Kitulgala is a straightforward affair, with the tour provider offering convenient pickup and drop-off services from Colombo Harbour.

You’ll be whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle, enjoying the scenic drive as you make your way to the rafting location. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, allowing you to sit back, relax, and soak in the picturesque countryside.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the experienced guide who’ll provide a comprehensive safety briefing and equipment fitting before embarking on your thrilling white-water adventure.

The package includes:

Pickup and drop-off at Colombo Harbour
Air-conditioned transportation
Approximately 2-hour journey to the rafting site
Warm welcome by the experienced guide
Comprehensive safety briefing and equipment fitting

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Safety Equipment Provided for the Rafting Activity?

The safety equipment provided for the whitewater rafting activity includes life jackets and helmets. Participants are required to wear this equipment throughout the adventure to ensure their safety on the rapids. The guide will provide instructions on proper usage.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Rafting Trip?

Participants are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the rafting trip. The tour includes a provided lunch, and bringing outside items is discouraged for safety and logistical reasons on the water.

What Should I Wear and Bring for the Whitewater Rafting?

When going whitewater rafting, it’s best to wear quick-drying, lightweight clothing and sturdy water shoes. Bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and water. Avoid cotton, as it takes a long time to dry. It’s also wise to leave valuables at home.

Is There an Age or Height Requirement to Participate in the Activity?

There’s no minimum age, but participants must be at least 12 years old and 130 cm (4’3") tall. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Whitewater Rafting?

Yes, participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the whitewater rafting activity. However, they should be mindful of their safety and the safety of others, and avoid using their devices in a way that could distract from the experience or put anyone at risk.