White Water Kayaking
Upper Kelani River
For the experienced kayaker, the Lower Kelani offers seven Class II and III rapids, each with its own distinct technical challenge. The stretch is approximately 6 1/2 kilometers, and this run will keep your attention on the next horizon line while also giving ample time to surf a few waves. Ideal times are from May to December, although there are no “bad” times. The river is dam controlled, therefore water levels can be low in April, but can also be quite high during the monsoon season.
- Location: Kelani River
- Target Group: Advanced. Participants must be able to comfortably perform a roll and wet exit in order to whitewater kayak
- Duration: 3 hours +
- Half-Day Hard Boat Kayak Rental in Kithulgala: US$99
- You can include this activity as part of an overnight stay in one of our river view cabins, which includes all meals and tea for $125 per night. We have to charge a supplemental fee for white water kayaking because it is labor-intensive for us. White Water Kayaking counts as two activities.
- Special rates are available for Sri Lankan residents.
** ALL RATES ARE IN US$/PER PERSON INCLUDING ALL TAXES.
- An experienced river guide who is experienced in Swift Water Rescue and trained in CPR and First Aid
- International Standard Safety Equipment
- Mobile phone in case of emergencies
- First Aid Kit
- Safety kayak
- Drinking water
- Kayak, paddle, sprayskirt and helmet
- Sturdy River Shoes or Sandals with a ankle strap
- Sunglasses with leash if necessary
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit & Shorts
- Towel & Change of Clothes
Expedition and Class IV+ Kayaking
For a more exhilarating experience Borderlands offers experienced kayakers a run on some of Sri Lanka’s more remote, and if lucky, first descent rivers. For instance, the Upper Kelani offers world-class Grade IV Rapids, and is easily accessible from Borderlands camp, just a 30 minute drive. The Upper Sitawaka is a gold mine for extreme kayakers with a thirst for Class IV rapids whilst the Lower Sitawaka has Class III and IV rapids which are still guaranteed to get the adrenaline rushing. This is a monsoon fed river and is best run during or just after the wet season. Other untapped rivers include the Goorok Oya and Belihul Oya. These rivers offer sublime white water kayaking in spectacular countryside surrounded by steep mountains, clad in thick jungle, tea and rubber plantations.
- Location: Upper Kelani, Sitawaka and Beyond
- Target Group: Advanced Kayakers Only
- Duration: 3 hours to multi day expeditions
Price on request.
Fully Supported Guided Trips with expert kayakers with advance kayaking certification.
- Sturdy River Shoes or Sandals with a ankle strap
- Sunglasses with leash if necessary
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit & Shorts
- Towel & Change of Clothes
Borderlands has proudly supported crew for a team of First Descent Kayakers on a National Geographic Expedition in 2009 and a Team of UK Kayakers in 2010.
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IncludedWhite Water KayakingExperienced river guides who are trained in certified in CPR and First AidFirst Aid KitInternational Standard Safety EquipmentOptional Support GearAll other necessary equipment