Sri Lanka’s streams and rivers are the ideal setting  for white water rafting. A thrilling way to experience  the spectacular environs of this region. Many tours in this area inevitably include the adrenalin soaring sport of white water rafting. This pastime is ideal for the amateurs who wish to 'take the plunge' and for experts as well. The vista along the river is worth experiencing. Rafting has become a very popular and exciting adventure sport. Approximately 80km from Colombo on the A7 - the road to Nuwara Eliya via Avissawella is Kitulgala. The name is derived from a special tree called 'Kitu.' The fruit of the kitul tree is surprisingly used to make honey and juggery.The city of Kithulgala had a bout of fame, when it was chosen as a prime location in the filming of , David Lean's 1957 award winning film 'Bridge on the River Kwai.' The Kelani River ( one of the main river's of Sri Lanka) flows through the Kitulgala's rock strewn sections and the rapids provide ample pleasure for the adventure sport of white water rafting.main tours begin at Kithulgala and many promise a view or a chance to 'go pass' the actual location of the filming. Many tours are organized for a minimum of 01 hour or a maximum of half a day. The actual run takes about 90 minutes to complete with encounters of grade 2 and 3 rapids, bearing unique names such as Butter Crunch, Killer Falls, Head Chopper and Virgin's Breast ! Although there are rafting spots for the more experienced in the Sitawaka river off Avissawella which lasts for 2 hours with grade 3 and 4 rapids it requires a higher degree of skill. An optional run and that too for the experienced rafter is the run which takes place on a higher elevation offering a grand scale view of the mountains and the feel of refreshing cold water beating against one's self is the run which takes place on the Kotmale river near the Hatton Nuwara- Eliya Road Kitulgala holds the predominat status of choice due to the facilities and its fame as a main tourist destination. The best period for white water rafting in Kitulgala will be from May through December. Those who have an adventourous streak and long to try their hand in the unknown could opt for Black Rafting which is conducted in the night during three days prior to or after the Full Moon poya Day. The rafter's are provided with a head light as well!