Kitulgala - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Kitulgala

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kitulgala, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kitulgala and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kitulgala, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Kitulgala for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kitulgala

Kitulgala is a small town in the district of Kegalle in Sri Lanka, located approximately 90 kilometers away from the capital city Colombo. The town is famous for its natural beauty, adventure activities, and its historic significance. It is situated in the Kithulgala Rainforest Reserve, which is home to a wide variety of endemic flora and fauna. The Kelani River flows through Kitulgala and offers a range of adventure activities such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, and canyoning. Kitulgala was also a major location for the filming of the movie "The Bridge on the River Kwai" in the 1950s.

What to visit in Kitulgala

Kitulgala is a small town located in the Kegalle district of Sri Lanka. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests and it is a perfect getaway for nature lovers. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Kitulgala: 1. The Kelani River: The Kelani River is the main attraction in Kitulgala. It is known for its crystal clear waters and beautiful surroundings. It is also a popular spot for water activities such as white water rafting, kayaking, and swimming.
2. Belilena Cave: Belilena Cave is located about 8 km east of Kitulgala. It is a limestone cave which is believed to be over 12,000 years old. The cave is home to several species of bats and it is also believed to have been a dwelling place for prehistoric humans.
3. Makandawa Forest Reserve: The Makandawa Forest Reserve is located about 2 km south of Kitulgala. It is a lush rainforest which is home to several species of birds, insects, and animals. The forest reserve is a popular spot for nature treks and bird watching.
4. Trekking to Adam's Peak: Adam's Peak is a famous pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka. It is located about 55 km east of Kitulgala. The trek to Adam's Peak is a challenging but rewarding experience. The peak offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
5. Experience the rural life: You can also experience the traditional rural life in Kitulgala by visiting the local villages and meeting the friendly people. You can also participate in traditional activities such as paddy cultivation, coconut plucking, and making handicrafts.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kitulgala

The best time to visit Kitulgala in Sri Lanka is from December to March since this is when the region experiences the driest weather. May to September is also a good time to visit Kitulgala, but there may be occasional rain showers as it is the monsoon season. It's important to note that Kitulgala is a rainforest region, so rainfall can occur at any time of the year. However, if you're looking for the best chance of dry weather, plan your trip for December to March.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kitulgala

To get to Kitulgala from Sri Lanka's capital, Colombo, you can take a bus or hire a private taxi. If you choose to take the bus, head to the Pettah Central Bus Stand in Colombo and look for a bus heading towards Hatton. The journey takes around 3-4 hours and will cost around 150-250 LKR (less than $2 USD) per person. From the Hatton bus stop, you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Kitulgala.
Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi from Colombo to take you directly to Kitulgala. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and prices vary depending on the company and type of vehicle you choose. It's wise to negotiate the fare before embarking on your journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kitulgala, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kitulgala

Kitulgala is a small town in Sri Lanka famous for its stunning landscape, adventurous activities, and delicious cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods of Kitulgala with a short description for each of them: 1) Sambal - Sambal is a spicy relish made with chillies, onions, lime juice, salt, and other ingredients. It is often served as a condiment with rice and other dishes.
2) Lamprais - Lamprais is a popular Dutch-influenced Sri Lankan dish that consists of rice cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed. It is a complete meal on its own and is often served as a special occasion dish.
3) Watalappan - Watalappan is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, and spices like cardamom and nutmeg. It is usually steamed and has a custard-like texture.
4) Kottu Roti - Kottu Roti is a popular Sri Lankan street food made by finely chopping up roti bread, vegetables, eggs, and meat with spices on a hot griddle. It is a satisfying and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick meal.
5) Polos curry - Polos Curry is a dish made with tender young jackfruit cooked in a rich and fragrant gravy made with spices like chili powder, turmeric, coriander, and cumin. It is a vegetarian option that is hearty and nutritious.
6) Fish Ambul Thiyal - Fish Ambul Thiyal is a traditional Sri Lankan fish dish made with chunks of fish marinated in a blend of spices and then cooked in a tangy sauce made with tamarind and other ingredients. It is a favorite among seafood lovers.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Kitulgala an expensive destination for tourists?

Kitulgala is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities are generally relatively affordable in comparison to other popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. That being said, the cost of your trip will depend on your personal preferences and budget. It's always a good idea to research prices and make a travel budget before planning your trip to Kitulgala or any other destination.

Where to find accomodation in Kitulgala

The best areas to find accommodation while visiting Kitulgala, Sri Lanka are: 1. Kitulgala town itself - This is where most of the adventure activities are located and it's close to all the tourist attractions.
2. Beli Lena - This is a quieter area located just outside of Kitulgala town and offers a more serene environment.
3. Ginigathena - This is a town located about 12 km from Kitulgala and is a good option for those who prefer to stay in a more developed area with more amenities.
You can check hotel prices at Kitulgala here:
Booking.com

Is Kitulgala a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kitulgala is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Sri Lanka. However, as with any destination, it is always best to be cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended to avoid traveling alone at night, be aware of your surroundings, and not leave your belongings unattended. It is also a good idea to research the specific area you will be visiting and be aware of any potential safety concerns or scams.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kitulgala.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kitulgala the most?

Kitulgala in Sri Lanka can be a great destination for various types of travelers. Adventurous couples and young people who are looking for fun activities like white-water rafting, trekking, hiking, and camping can have an exciting time here. Families with older children can also enjoy these activities as well as visit nearby natural attractions like the Belilena Cave and the Makanduwa Forest Reserve. However, Kitulgala may not be ideal for families with young children or those looking for a relaxing beach vacation, as it is mostly known for its adventure activities and natural beauty.

How to get around Kitulgala

The most common way to move around Kitulgala is by tuk-tuk (a three-wheeled vehicle). You can easily hire a tuk-tuk to take you to popular tourist attractions like the Kelani River and hiking trails. Alternatively, you can also rent a bike to explore the area at your own pace. If you want to visit places that are further away, you can hire a car or join a group tour.

What to see around Kitulgala

Sure, Here are some nice places to visit for a day trip from Kitulgala: 1. Kithulgala Forest Reserve - A beautiful place to explore the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
2. Adam's Peak - A popular hiking destination with a stunning view from the top.
3. Kelani River - You can enjoy White-water rafting, and other water sports at this river.
4. Ratnapura - Famous for its precious gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and emeralds.
5. Sinharaja Forest Reserve - A UNESCO world heritage site covering an area of 18,900 acres and is home to over 50% of Sri Lanka's endemic species of flora and fauna.
6. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage - A large orphanage for elephants that serves as a breeding ground for many elephants.
7. Kegalle - A city known for its beautiful botanical gardens and the historic Pinnawala elephant orphanage.
8. Ramboda Falls - A towering waterfall, which is the 11th highest in Sri Lanka.
9. Uthuwankanda - A mountain that takes its name from the ancient legend of Sugriva, who defeated Vali at this location.
These are some of the nice places to visit on a day trip from Kitulgala.
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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