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A Destination of Adventure and History
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, Kitulgala is a small town with a big story. It's perhaps best known as the filming location for the Academy Award-winning movie "The Bridge on the River Kwai." While little remains of the iconic bridge today, visitors can still catch a glimpse of its history as they explore the concrete foundations that stand as a testament to a bygone era along the tranquil Kelani River.
Kithulgala lies on the banks of the Kelani River and is located 100km from Colombo. Kithulgala, better known as the adventure playground of Sri Lanka, attracts the greatest number of adventure enthusiasts on the island. The remote adventure holiday spot with rocky outcrop provides all the ingredients for many adrenaline-pumping activities such as white-water rafting adventures, canoeing, mountain climbing, waterfall abseiling, and many other activities. Kitulgala is one of the best places for a one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka.
While Kitulgala's history is fascinating, it's not the only draw for visitors. This charming town has also gained a reputation as an adventure enthusiast's paradise. White-water rafting is a major attraction, offering a thrilling experience for those seeking an adrenaline rush. The Kelani River provides the perfect setting for this heart-pounding adventure, with its turbulent waters and breathtaking scenery.
For those who crave more excitement, Kitulgala offers a myriad of other leisure and adventure activities. You can explore the lush rainforests through jungle treks, discovering a wide array of flora and fauna that make up Sri Lanka's incredible biodiversity. Canyoning and waterfall abseiling are other options for those who want to combine their love for nature with a splash of excitement.
Visitors to Kitulgala often find themselves retracing the steps of Sir Alec Guinness and William Holden, who starred in "The Bridge on the River Kwai," and experiencing the allure of the natural beauty that served as a backdrop for the epic tale. As you walk along the riverbanks and gaze at the remnants of the bridge, you can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the golden age of cinema.
The history of Kitulgala is intertwined with the filming of "The Bridge on the River Kwai." This 1957 classic, directed by David Lean, captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide. The film, set during World War II, depicted the construction of a bridge by Allied prisoners of war. Though the original bridge constructed for the movie has long since been dismantled, its cinematic legacy endures.
For birdwatchers, the Kitulgala Rainforest is a birding paradise. With over 50 species of birds, including the endemic Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Red-faced Malkoha, and the elusive Chestnut-winged Cuckoo, this area offers a unique opportunity to connect with the avian world.
Beyond the thrills of adventure, Kitulgala also provides a tranquil escape for those seeking peace and relaxation. The lush greenery, calming river, and serene atmosphere create an ideal environment for relaxation and introspection. Whether you're unwinding in a riverside resort, picnicking by the Kelani River, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Kitulgala's natural beauty is sure to enchant your senses.
There are many other attractions in Kitulgala that should not be missed. Chief among these is the historic Beli Lena Caves, which are reached by a 10km drive off the main road through the Kitulgala tea estate. Archaeological evidence indicates that the prehistoric Balangoda Man lived here 20,000 years ago. David Lean’s epic war film, "Bridge on the River Kwai," was filmed on the Kelani River in Kitulgala, and remnants of the concrete structure of the bridge still remain. The Kelani Valley Forest Reserve on the far bank is a low elevation forest where rare and endemic birds can be spotted, including the Serendib Scops Owl (Otus Thilo Hoffmani). The Forest Reserve also has a host of other rare amphibians, reptiles, frogs, endemic tree snails, and endemic fishes in its stream. Freshwater fishing offers great sport here as the Kelani River has the largest game fish found in Sri Lanka, the Mahseer (Barbus Tor), and also the Freshwater Shark (Wallagonia Attu) and Loola. Kitulgala can be conveniently reached from most popular beach holiday destinations on the western and southern coast of Sri Lanka. Kitulgala is also very close to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, making it easy to reach Kitulgala from any of the aforementioned places.
In conclusion, Kitulgala is a place where history and adventure intersect, making it an exceptional destination for all types of travelers. Whether you're a film enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply in search of a tranquil retreat, Kitulgala welcomes you with open arms. Explore the remnants of cinematic history, navigate the thrilling white-water rapids, or immerse yourself in the unspoiled natural beauty that makes Kitulgala a truly unique and memorable destination.
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"2nd to 15th November 2016 Dear Cyril, Thank you for arranging our first visit to your beautiful country. We had a very enjoyable, comfortable, safe, interesting and memorable holiday. All the accommodations you provided were very clean and comfortable and we will always remember the welcome, we felt when the smiling staff cheerfully looked after us and our every need. The itinerary you arranged was just right for us and made even better with the care you took whilst driving your very c..." Satwant and Doug from Australia
" Hi Cyril We have had a fabulous holiday driven and guided by Cyril from CYRIL TOURS. Hotel recommendations were perfect and knowledge supertb. We would happy to introduce CYRIL TOURS to our frieinds and relatives. Thank you for the photos you are taken and send to us, they are a great reminder of our amazing experience in Sri Lanka. We had a truly memorable time and we are grateful to you for all your knowledge and guidance throughout our trip, it would not have been..." Mr. Richard & Mrs. Bridget Simson and family from
"Cyril was an excellent guide and gave us a very good insight into the history and cultures of Sri Lanka. He was always polite, helpful and prompt. His driving was always calm and controlled - unlike some of the other vehicles we saw!!! We would recommend him to others traveling to Sri Lanka. WH - UK - January 2011" Wilson Harland
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"Dear Cyril, Thank you for truly amazing oneweek tour your beautiful country.We have seen so many amazing sites in such a short space of time. From Sigiriya to beautiful temples, Scenic tea gardens of Nuwaraeliya the colonial land ark hotel Mount Lavinia. We have seen so much more. You have made this an utterly memorable holiday with your expert knowledge, amazing, facinating stories, patience, careful+safe drivingand your unforgetable smile. We will cetainly recommonding your tours to all of fr..." Sara Kitson - UK
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