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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.
"Dear Cyril, Yes that's the one that we were calling all the time. Her name is Celia and by now she has a little sister. My dear Cyril, of course we can't forget your companion and we are always telling about you when we are talking about our trip to Sri Lanka. I wish you good luck with your company and I hope that you will have whatever you want. I want to tell also that I was very happy when I learned that you are a grandfather now. Best regards, Chris Greece 26/07/2011" Cristos Pravitas - Greece
"Dear Cyril, We would like to thank youthat you have arrange ourholiday which we have enjoyed so much, that we can call them the best holiday we have ever had. You are avery helpful guide- because you know about your beautiful country very much. We also appriciate your advices that you gave us during our two weeks long journey and your perfect trip arrangement we have enjoyed every single day. All the best to you and your family. Hope to see you again. Martha & Jarda 08 No..." Martha & Jaroslav Jirout
"We are an older couple celebrating a lot of years of marriage (and hiking) in Sri Lanka in February this year, for two weeks, and three days in the Maldives. Although we love to drive, we chose to go with a driver-guide, after planning the trip completely independently. (It turned out he might help us in the planning and selection of hotels, we own). The main advantage is reaching the sites, some of which are tired, refreshed after someone else used to bad roads, with bad signage - If you are i..." Sam
"I want to thank Mr. Cyril for this 17 days long tour. He is an excellent chauffeur guide, always on time with a car more than the clean. He knows all the places in the Island and organized very well. Most of all, he is very kind person, always with a smile and ready to help. I want to reccommond him to all my friends. Ria Deleu Belgium Travel period 25 Jan 2020 - 10 Feb 2020 ( 17 days)" Mrs. Ria Deleu from Belgium
"Thanks a lot for making great arrangements for the visit. The visit was very well organized with good hotels and the vehicle/ driver. I would highly recommend your agency and its services to everyone who wants to visit Sri Lanka. Anastasia - Russia, Feb 2011 " Anastasia
"Traveled in April 2013 with Cyril . Family with three young children. Cyril match the trip plan problem on his part. Familiar with every corner of this beautiful island and we have managed to produce a great 17 days. Prices respect as well - we tested three competing proposals and was the cheapest. The fact that he was working independently and not through an agency that collects coupon trips generally significantly reduces the price of the package. A modern and spacious vehicle (van with seven ..." Maozd
"We came for a wedding and then embarked on an amazing holiday. Cyril show us magnificent sights and scenery of Sri Lanka. To do the country just we need to return with more time. Many of the sites we visited just made us want to know more about them, even though Cyril was a fountain of knowledge. We have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Cyril and his excellent company, and it was so nice to go home a guardian angel looking after us. He is consistently courteous & good humored and now fe..." Andy Powell UK
"We are glad to meet Cyril. He is very kind and patient, very professional in his work. He have lot of knowledge about history of the places and the things that happened in Sri Lanka. He knows all the roads and places very well. Very friendly and stand on time. The tour he recommended us and places were excellent. He replied immediately for mails which we send. He was flexible when we asked him to stop in different places and to change our program. He speaks very good English and explanations..." Ruty Ben Haim from Isarel
"We had an excellent and memorable trip and all credits to Cyril. In-depth knowledge about the places, roads and history and culture. From the airport assistance - Food, accommodation provided and the vehicle was excellent. Very matured and patient, We being on safe hands. Thanks for making it a memorable experience for all of us. " Aubry De Souza and group from Dubai
"Dear Cyril, Sincerest apologies for this delayed email --- reason being that I had been extremely busy with work & travel, since returning from Sri Lanka and just got a breather now, to download our photos and catch up with private matters. Hope this email finds you & family, in the best of health & spirits. Your granddaughter must be keeping you busy and giving you & Mrs. Baddegama immense joy. At this end, we are doing fine. Nikhita is back at school, now in Grade 7 and havi..." Pradeep Kumar Menon - Singapore
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