Visit Kegalle
The Adventure Capital of Sri Lanka | Rafting, Hiking.
Though Kegalle is well-known for its Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, another nearby town named Kitulgala is the lifeblood of Sri Lanka’s adventure tourism. Located in a Rain Forest with the rumbling Kelani River in the background, this area gives one a complete adrenaline boost with activities such as White Water Rafting, Waterfall Abseiling, as well as Stream Sliding. Exciting as this might be, this area’s rich past can be felt through historical rocks named Bible Rock and Uthuwankanda.
White Water Rafting – Taming the Kelani River
Kitulgala is the most popular site for White Water Rafting in Sri Lanka. This is a 5 km stretch along the Kelani River, wherein you have to deal with 5 major rapids and 4 minor rapids. White Water Rafting is an adventurous activity, which is perfect for amateurs as well as professionals.
In addition to the adventure, the river is beautiful and clean and is famously known as the location for the movie “The Bridge on the River Kwai,” which won an Oscar. For a full-blown adventure, many individuals visit for the Rafting and accompany activities like Canyoning and Confidence Jumps.
- Distance from Kegalle Town: ~45km
- Best Time to Visit
May to December (Water levels are best) - Activity Duration: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty Level:Thrilling/Moderate
- Safety: Life jackets & Helmets are required (Supplied by operators)
Bathalegala (Bible Rock) – The Sigiriya of Kegalle
The famous Bathalegala is located in the Kegalle District and is widely known as Bible Rock because of its rectangular shape, resembling a book. It stands 798 meters above sea level and provides a relatively easy and rewarding hike.
It gives a flat terrain with panoramic views over the central highlands, with the peak of Adam’s on a clear day. This is an easy and quiet hiking sport, excellent for photographers and for viewing a sunset without the load of tourists.
- Distance from Kegalle Town: ~15 km (approx.)
- Starting Point: Mawanella area
- Hiking Duration: 1.5–2 hours (Round trip)
- Skill Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Uthuwankanda – The Hideout of Sri Lanka’s Robin Hood
Uthuwankanda to some is a place to hike; others consider it a journey to explore ancient times. This rocky mountain in Mawanella was said to have been the legendary stronghold of Deekirikevage Saradiel, known in Sri Lanka’s folklore and literature as “The Robin Hood of Sri Lanka,” a 19th-century outlaw who stole from rich people and gave to the poor before hiding in this very place from British forces.
The climb to the top is very exhilarating and short, with steep climbs and passing through tight crevices that give you an experience of the life Saradiel led. At the top, you get to enjoy an incredible view of valleys around and the characteristic Bible Rock formation in the vicinity.
Tourists can also visit the Saradiel Village, a recreated theme park situated at the foothills, which displays the life and times of Saradiel with life-sized statues.
- Mawanella (about 12 km from Kegalle)
- Hiking Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours (Round trip)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (Steep Rock Climbing Required)
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or Late Afternoon (Avoid the Midday Sun)
- Attractions: Saradiel’s Cave, Summit View, Saradiel Village (Theme Park)
Hotels & Stays in Kegalle
Adventure & Eco-Lodges (Kitulgala)
Palm Garden Guesthouse – Located right by the river, perfect for rafters.
Borderlands Sri Lanka – High-end adventure camping and eco-lodge.
Moksha at Kitulgala – Luxury boutique hotel surrounded by rainforest.
Comfort & City Stays (Kegalle)
Hotel Elephant Bay – Famous for its view of elephants bathing in the river.
Ma Oya Retreat – A peaceful riverside stay away from the crowd.