Embark on an exhilarating day trip from Colombo or Negombo that takes you on a thrilling white-water rafting adventure in Kitulgala. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to marvel at the panoramic vistas from the Ambuluwawa Tower and explore the world of Ceylon tea production. The journey culminates in the captivating city of Kandy, where you’ll explore its diverse cultural and natural wonders. This tour promises an unforgettable blend of adrenaline-fueled activities and culture, leaving you with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Key Points
- A full-day adventure tour from Colombo or Negombo to Kitulgala for white-water rafting, Ambuluwawa Tower, and a tea factory visit before concluding in Kandy.
- The tour is priced from $120 for up to 4 people and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a pay later option and flexible scheduling.
- The Kelani River in Kitulgala provides an adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting experience with Class III-IV rapids, stunning scenery, and wildlife sightings.
- The Ambuluwawa Tower in the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and a unique architectural design blending with the natural environment.
- The tea factory tour provides insight into the traditional Ceylon tea production process, allowing visitors to learn about and taste different tea varieties.
Tour Overview
This full-day adventure takes travelers from Colombo or Negombo to the picturesque regions of Kitulgala, Ambuluwawa, and the cultural capital of Kandy.
Priced from $120 per group of up to 4 people, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can book now and pay later, with flexible scheduling options available.
The journey includes approximately 3 hours of travel time, white-water rafting, an optional visit to Ambuluwawa Tower, and a tea factory tour, concluding in Kandy by evening.
Looking for more options in Kitulgala? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Details
The Colombo to Kandy tour includes pickup from the customer’s hotel in either Colombo or Negombo.
The journey takes approximately 3 hours to reach Kitulgala. Once there, guests can enjoy 2 hours of white-water rafting on the Kelani River.
They may also visit the Ambuluwawa Tower for panoramic views, spending around 1 hour.
Afterward, the tour heads to a tea factory, where visitors can learn about Ceylon tea production and sample fresh brews.
The tour concludes in Kandy by the evening, allowing time to explore the city’s multi-religious sites and natural surroundings.
White-water Rafting on the Kelani River
What better way to kick off the adventure than with an adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting experience on the Kelani River? This 2-hour activity caters to all skill levels, providing an exhilarating way to navigate the rushing rapids.
The tour highlights include:
Traversing Class III-IV rapids for an adrenaline rush, stunning scenery, and the chance to spot diverse wildlife.
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Traversing Class III-IV rapids for an adrenaline rush.
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Stunning scenery of lush rainforests and natural swimming pools.
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Opportunity to spot diverse wildlife like birds and monkeys.
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Experienced guides ensuring a safe yet thrilling journey down the Kelani.
Prepare to get soaked and have a blast on this unforgettable white-water rafting adventure.
Ambuluwawa Tower
Ambuluwawa Tower stands as a captivating architectural marvel, offering visitors panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
Perched atop a lush hill, the tower’s unique design blends seamlessly with the verdant forests and rolling hills. Visitors can ascend to the observation deck, where they’re rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the region.
The tower’s location within the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex also allows visitors to explore the rich natural diversity of the area, including its diverse array of flora and fauna.
For those seeking a tranquil respite and stunning vistas, a visit to Ambuluwawa Tower is a must.
More Great Tours NearbyTea Factory Visit
After exploring the captivating Ambuluwawa Tower, visitors can look forward to seeing the time-honored traditions of Ceylon tea production.
Visitors can enjoy the time-honored traditions of Ceylon tea production after exploring the captivating Ambuluwawa Tower.
On the tour, they’ll visit a renowned tea factory, where they can:
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Witness the intricate process of tea leaf plucking, withering, rolling, and firing.
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Learn about the unique flavors and characteristics of different Ceylon tea varieties.
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Taste freshly brewed cups of black, green, and herbal teas.
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Browse the factory’s gift shop for the perfect souvenir or take-home tea.
This insightful tea experience offers a delightful glimpse into Sri Lanka’s cherished tea heritage.
Exploring Kandy
As the tour makes its way to the historic city of Kandy, visitors can look forward to discovering the rich cultural tapestry and stunning natural beauty that abound in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the iconic Temple of the Tooth, which houses a renowned Buddhist relic, to the tranquil Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy offers a captivating blend of spirituality and natural wonder. Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant markets, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the region’s diverse heritage.
| Top Attractions in Kandy | |
| — | — |
| Temple of the Tooth | Royal Botanical Gardens |
| Kandy Lake | Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue |
Inclusions and Costs
The tour package includes a private air-conditioned car or van, an English-speaking driver, fuel, tolls, and water bottles.
The activity costs are:
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River rafting entrance ticket: $20 USD
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Ambuluwawa Tower entrance: $6 USD
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Meals aren’t included, so you’ll need to bring cash for personal expenses.
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Not suitable for pregnant women, people with back/heart problems, or non-swimmers.
Customers are advised to bring recommended items like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes.
The tour starts early to maximize the day, and smoking isn’t allowed during the trip.
Important Considerations
It’s important to keep in mind that this tour may not be suitable for certain individuals.
Pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, and non-swimmers should avoid the white-water rafting activity.
Participants should also be prepared with appropriate attire, such as hats, swimwear, towels, and comfortable walking shoes.
Participants should come prepared with hats, swimwear, towels, and comfortable walking shoes.
Smoking isn’t permitted during the tour.
To make the most of the day, an early start is recommended.
Lastly, while transportation, fuel, and water are included, meals are not, so visitors should bring cash for personal expenses.
Common Questions
Can We Customize the Itinerary Based on Our Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized based on the traveler’s interests. Customers are encouraged to discuss their preferences with the tour operator to create a personalized itinerary that suits their needs and interests.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children of All Ages?
The tour may not be suitable for young children due to the white-water rafting activity. However, older children who can swim and follow safety instructions may be able to participate with parental supervision.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour accommodates groups of up to 4 people. The price is from $120.00 per group, making it a cost-effective option for small parties exploring Kitulgala, Ambuluwawa, and Kandy in a full-day adventure.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though meals are not included in the tour price. Cash should be brought for any personal expenses during the tour.
What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Bad Weather?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund in case of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This ensures a worry-free experience.
The Sum Up
This full-day adventure from Colombo or Negombo offers an exhilarating blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration. White-water rafting on the Kelani River, panoramic views from Ambuluwawa Tower, a fascinating tea factory tour, and the opportunity to discover Kandy’s multi-religious sites make this trip a well-rounded experience for those seeking an immersive Sri Lankan journey.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Kitulgala
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