Canoeing and Kayaking

With 103 rivers and a wealth of water such as, lagoons and interconnected old canals, Sri Lanka provides many opportunities to try out Kayaking/canoeing, a different and relaxing mode of transportation.

Sri Lanka’s KALU GANGA (aka Black River) flows from the heart of the island down to the west coast town of Kalutara where it finally meets the Indian Ocean.

During a leisurely canoe trip down this beautiful river, canoeists marvel at ever-changing landscapes and a fascinating variety of flora and fauna.

For an alternative to river canoeing, head to one of the country’s many vast tanks and reservoirs.The calm waters of the Samanalawewa reservoir in Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa province (easily accessible from BELIHULOYA ) provide an ideal setting for this slow-paced activity, and with the area’s prolific birdlife and breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains, there’s no end of things to see as you paddle.

Draining from Adam’s Peak, the Kelani River’s clear water cascades over the Hill Country’s bedrock as it makes its way out of the mountains headed for the Indian Ocean. In Kithulgala, beginners to advanced kayakers will find the Kelani River a fun place to learn the basics of the sport or simply get in a great day of exciting white water paddling.

Beginners can paddle up stream from camp, trying their hand at some wave surfing on a Grade 2 play-wave before heading downstream on a gentle journey through marvellous scenery.

The Upper Kelani is a thrilling stretch of water, offering challenging Class IV water. Borderlands has the most extensive range of kayaks in the country from play boats for experienced paddlers to sit on top, and inflatable duckies for the less experienced, along with safety equipment which meets international safety standards to ensure all guests are always safe on the river.

Last Modified: November 1, 2024