Hill country
Kitulgala
White-water rafting in the rainforest
Kitulgala sits in a steep, green valley on the road from Colombo to Hatton and Nuwara Eliya. The Kelani River here is the island's main place for white-water rafting, with rapids that suit first-timers. There are also forest walks for birdwatchers, canyoning and river swims. Parts of the 1957 film The Bridge on the River Kwai were shot here, and you can visit the spot.
Kitulgala
- Part of the island
- Hill country
- Suggested stay
- 1 night
- Best months
- Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
- Things to do
- Ask us
Weather
When to go
Sri Lanka has two monsoons, so the best months depend on the coast. This is the pattern here.
- Jan: best
- Feb: best
- Mar: best
- Apr: best
- May: expect rain
- Jun: expect rain
- Jul: expect rain
- Aug: good
- Sep: good
- Oct: expect rain
- Nov: expect rain
- Dec: good
Stays
Where to stay
Prices per night for two people sharing, for dates about six weeks away. Yours may differ.
Budget
Clean, simple guesthouses and small hotels
Aurelia Grand Hotel
$24Hotel in Kitulgala with air-conditioned family rooms and river-view balconies.
Air conditioning · Wi-Fi · Family rooms · Parking
Old Bridge Riverside Hotel
$34Riverside hotel in Kitulgala with air-conditioned rooms and balconies.
Air conditioning · Wi-Fi
Comfort
Mid-range hotels, often with a pool
Hotel Breeta's Garden
$62Hotel in Kitulgala with family rooms, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a garden.
Pool · Wi-Fi · Restaurant · Family rooms
Forest Edge Resort
$87Resort in Kitulgala with air-conditioned family rooms, an outdoor pool and a restaurant.
Pool · Air conditioning · Wi-Fi · Restaurant
Superior
The nicest stays that still keep costs sensible
Aramya Riverfront Boutique Resort Kitulgala
$152Riverfront resort in Kitulgala with family rooms, an outdoor pool and a restaurant.
Pool · Wi-Fi · Restaurant · Family rooms