Water Sports in Sri Lanka

WATER SPORTS IN SRI LANKA

Feed your adventurous and aquaphilic soul on a bright sunny day by hitting the blue waters of Sri Lanka. Whether you are a lover of thrilling activities in the ocean, waterfalls, or rivers, Sri Lanka has got all your water sport preferences covered. From white water rafting and kayaking in the stubborn waters, to jet skiing and surfing in the waves of the wild ocean, to abseiling and confidence jumps from majestic waterfalls, you are in for a treat of adventurous water sports of all shapes and sizes.

While there are numerous locations for action-packed water sports experiences in Sri Lanka, the most go-to places to feed your adventurous soul are the beautiful waters of Bentota and Kithulgala. So if you are a thrill-seeker looking for an activity for that adrenaline to kick in, here are a few must-dos while you are on the island.

1. White Water Rafting:

Row and drift on 5 km of the stubborn, almost untamable waves of Kelani river covering many major and minor rapids, surrounded by picturesque greenery of Kithulgala Kelani forest reserve. An action-packed, fun-filled experience on a shared raft of a group of 3 - 6 adrenaline junkies, conquering the waves of Kelani river in the jungle heavens of Kithulgala is not for the faint-hearted. However, you have no reason to let fear or doubt stop you from indulging in an experience that will reward your courage, as all safety measures will be taken, and a guide to assist in maneuvering the raft in the unknown water will also be provided. A truly remarkable experience, that will leave you with a lot more courage to help you through the rapids and obstacles of life!

2. Waterfall Abseiling:

Have you always only enjoyed waterfalls from a distance or by taking a dip in a rock pool? Then it is time to bring out the daredevil in you to experience the true power of a waterfall by descending it down its rock slope, gripping on to the rope, while the cold waterfall on you with nothing but water above and beneath. Sounds like something you are brave enough to try? Then head to Kithulgala for a 3 - 4 hour ultimate waterfall adventure of experiencing the soaring beauty of a 105 ft tall majestic waterfall while your adrenaline levels rise.

If you are up for more adventure, you can also enjoy river expeditions, confidence jumps and stream sliding in Kithulgala.

3. Jet Skiing:

Are you a lover of driving on land? Then, we are certain that you will find racing against the tides of ocean waves to be highly addictive! As the salty air hits the adrenaline to its peaks, ride the ocean waves of Bentota with occasional air-water jumps while you enjoy the serene views of the golden sandy beach at high speed. This is an experience of joy that you would keep returning to. While Bentota on the southern coast is the most popular destination for Jet Skiing, one can also engage in jet skiing in Negambo on the west coast.

4. Wind Surfing:

If you have been a water sports enthusiast with a bit of prior experience in surfing the ocean water, we recommend you try out windsurfing in Sri Lanka. While this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, if balance and strength are your strong points, you will most certainly fall in love with windsurfing. The weather conditions of Bentota and Hikkaduwa on the southern coast of Sri Lanka from November to March are perfect for the sport.

Besides jet skiing and windsurfing, Bentota is also known for other water sports such as water skiing, banana boat rides, kite surfing, and many more. Bentota is truly an all-in-one hub for any water sports lover!

5. Surfing:

This is a no-brainer! In Sri Lanka, surf’s up all year round. Surrounded by the Indian ocean with reef breaks, point breaks, and beach breaks, you can find a spot with waves perfect for surfing any time of the year. Palm-fringed golden sandy beaches, sunny warm weather, serene sunsets, and the welcoming and helpful surf community of Sri Lanka have made this island a tropical surf paradise. If you are visiting Sri Lanka between October and April, Weligama, Midigama, Hiriketiya, and Hikkaduwa on the southern coast are ideal destinations to take your surfboard and ride a wave. And if you are visiting the island between May and September, you should consider the waves of Arugam Bay on the east coast that will be at their best behavior during this time.

So, are you a real adventure junkie? Then we dare you to experience the world of water sports in Sri Lanka.