SRI LANKA - White Water Rafting at Kelani River

Measuring at 145 kilometres long, Kelani River is the fourth longest river in Sri Lanka. The boulder strewn stretch of Kelani River is an ideal setting for White Water Rafting.


After trekking the Horton Plains, I proceeded for a White Water Rafting at the Kelani River.


This will be my first White Water Rafting experience and I’m all excited.


 I have always wanted to try white water rafting back in Malaysia, but due to the journey and time constrain, I have always put back the idea.


 I quickly jump at the opportunity to experience white water rafting in Sri Lanka. It's either rafting or I go straight to the hotel.


White water rafting in Sri Lanka is considered cheap in comparison to many countries including Malaysia.


After 5 minutes of orientation, we are good to go.


Being an inexperience rafter, there are two local rafter guiding us.


Heading towards the first rapids.


 I was definitely nervous.


The rafter behind me shouting from behind, “Paddle left, paddle right, left paddle stop!”


Going through the rapids.


Haha! Managed to pass though the rapids without capsizing.


It began to rain.


2nd rapids coming up ahead!


Whoa! Water gushing into our raft.


Kelani River is rated as Grade 2 –3 rapids.


You need to be at least an experience paddler to manoeuvre through Kelani River. 


Navigating pass through the rocks is difficult and if you have no experience, you are bound to crash onto the rocks.


We are able to manage white water rafting here because of the two anchor rafter sitting behind us.


 I always thought that you sit inside the raft while rafting. You actually sit beside the edge of the raft.


Victory! Even though the ability to swim definitely is advantageous, the life jacket keeps you from drowning should one falls overboard. The helmet prevents any serious injury if you crash into a rock.






White water rafting here at the Kelani River is suitable for both first time and more experienced rafters.


Still raining! Well, I didn’t mind because I was already all soaking wet from the splashes of the water as we pass through the rapids.


The turbulent waters of Kelani River.


Hmm….is that the famed Bridge of River Kwai?


Nope! The ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’, a 1957 World War II film was actually shot here. A purpose built bridge was built here at the Kelani River solely for the film. Well, the bridge exploded in the film, so what is left is just the base of the bridge.


Another rapid ahead!


The anchor rafter looking worried. Come on, I laugh at the face of fear.


Left rafter, paddle harder! We don’t want to crash into the rocks!


Kelani River supplies approximately 80% of the water used in Colombo.


The rafter told us it’s safe to swim in the river. My beau bravely went into the river. As for me, I stayed on board the raft.


The guide giving some pointers to my beau.


He was really struggling to balance himself in the water. He gulped some water as the water kept splashing to his face.


The waves at the river was quite strong.


After a while, my beau got a hang of it.  


He really did enjoy himself as he flowed alongside the river.


Come on, it's time to get back on the raft. Aren't you afraid of crocodiles? Yes, there are crocodiles in rivers and sharks in the sea. But does it stop us from swimming there?


The rafter behind me smiling for the camera.


The friendly rafters from ‘Wild Waters’ who accompanied us for the white water rafting.


Kelani River is set amidst green hills and thick tropical forest.


Rafting here at the Kelani River sure does offer a chance to enjoy the tropical scenery of the surroundings.


Bring along a waterproof compact camera if you want to take photographs while you go rafting. It needs to be waterproof to avoid your camera being damaged. You definitely will be soaking wet! So why does it need to be a compact camera? You’ll be bouncing up and down the raft. You won’t want your SLR camera hitting your face.


Peculiar looking insects buzzing around a tree.


We've come to the end of the rafting. Had a bath, changed our clothes and we’re on our way. The tour guide was already waiting for us.


By the time I reached the hotel, it was already dark.


White water rafting surely was an exciting experience. With this I cross off one the adventures off my bucket list. Enjoyed a sip of Lion Beer before calling it a day.



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