This activity is as interesting as it sounds. There’s nothing like the great adrenaline rush of speeding down the rivers as the raft manoeuvres between rocks and obstacles in the water.
Sri Lanka is packed with bodies of water, so you’re bound to find a place that fits your liking.
This is all based off of river dynamics, and the raft crosses over stretches of major and minor rapids, so you’re definitely going to be in for one bumpy ride.
Anything you should know
Contrary to popular belief, this activity isn’t as hard as it’s made out to be. Yet, knowing how to swim would definitely be advantageous. You can take a guide along with you to ensure that you make your journey safely, and you will even be provided with protective gear like helmets and life jackets.
This could go on for an hour or even more. It is advised that people who aren’t comfortable in the midst of such turbulence shouldn’t participate as it is quite exhilarating; so it would only be for the extremely adventurous.
Some of these rivers are better for people who have experience in this activity, but you don’t have to miss out. Start from the bottom with the easier options, and slowly move up to the harder routes.
Where to go
The most famous place for this activity would be Kithulgala; which is in the Western part of the country. You will be rafting in the 4th longest river in the country, and also the place where parts of the famous film The Bridge on the River Kwai was filmed; the Kelani river. Going to Kitulgala between May and December would increase your chances of having a better experience in the area.
The next best place would be in Avissawella, which is also in the Western province. Here, you will be riding through the Sitawaka river. This river is for the more experienced rafters, as it does require a lot more maneuvering.
You could also ride along the longest river in the country; the Mahaweli river. The stretch that this activity usually takes place in runs in the Central province from Ulapane in to Gampola. This too, is also for more experienced rafters.
The ride down the river Kotmale -the longest tributary of the Mahaweli river- is definitely for advanced rafters, as it can go on for around 6 hours, and involves lots of turbulence. Starting at the beginning of St. Clair’s falls -the widest waterfall in the country- the river will take you from Hatton to Nuwara Eliya. The views that come at this altitude are breathtaking enough to motivate anyone want to do it.
Although it does sound quite scary, you’ll be extremely satisfied with the thrill that you get from it. This is the sort of activity that people have on their bucket lists; so conquer your fears, and cross it off of yours in the exotic waters of Sri Lanka.
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