Kitulgala Jungle Trek

Kitulgala lies in the wet zone on the road between Colombo and the hill country, beside the Kelani river. Best known for white-water rafting, it is also a good place for a rainforest walk. The Kitulgala Forest Reserve, across the river, is lowland rainforest with streams, waterfalls and rich birdlife.

What you see

Trails lead under tall trees and through thick undergrowth, past streams and small waterfalls. A guide will point out plants used in traditional medicine, fungi, and insects. Kitulgala is popular with birdwatchers: several of Sri Lanka's endemic species live in this forest, and mixed flocks of birds move through the trees. Monkeys, lizards, frogs and butterflies are common. Some walks end with a swim in a forest pool.

How a trek works

Treks are run by local guides, often from the hotels and adventure camps in Kitulgala. Some routes start with a short crossing of the Kelani river by canoe or ferry. You can choose an easy walk or a longer route with more climbing.

How long it takes

Two to four hours, depending on the route.

When to go

Early morning is best for birds and cooler air. Kitulgala gets rain much of the year; the drier spells, often January to April, make trails easier.

Getting there

Kitulgala is about 2 to 2.5 hours by road from Colombo, on the way to Hatton and Nuwara Eliya.

What to bring

• Leech socks, long trousers and good shoes.
• Rain gear, water and insect repellent.
• Binoculars for birds.

Combine it with white-water rafting or waterfall abseiling. See things to do in Kitulgala and Kitulgala hotels.