Tucked into the wet zone of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Kitulgala is a lush, adventure-packed town where rainforest trails, rushing rivers, and misty hills converge. Known as the island’s capital of outdoor thrills, Kitulgala is famed for its white-water rafting on the Kelani River—an exhilarating ride through rapids framed by emerald jungle. But beyond the adrenaline, this region offers quiet moments too: birdwatching at dawn, jungle treks under dripping canopies, and riverside picnics with the sound of waterfalls in the background.

Kitulgala’s cinematic charm is no accident—it was the filming location for The Bridge on the River Kwai, and its natural beauty remains untouched. From Belilena Cave, an archaeological site with evidence of prehistoric human life, to the Kitul palm groves that give the town its name, every experience here is steeped in nature and history. Whether you’re canyoning down waterfalls or sipping tea in a forest lodge, Kitulgala invites you to explore Sri Lanka’s wild side.