The mystical passage through Black River on a canoe – Rathnapura

Colombo, Sri Lanka
Duration3h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Canoeing in “Kalu Ganga” (Black River) gives you some of the rare and rewarding experiences of Sri Lanka and its people who live in the riverine villages. You are able to witness the most untouched scenic beauty of the country, encounter locals and learn their way of life on this canoe trip. An opportunity to visit and be blessed in one of the most sacred shrines – Saman Devale (dedicated to God Saman) – in the country and evoke blessings. The journey will take you through the silent waters of Kalu Ganaga amidst the varied bird life. It’s a fun-filled adventure for an expert and even for an amateur to try his/her hand.

What's included

  • Full-time backup vehicle parallel to the canoe with radio communication
  • Bottled water
  • Lunch
  • All Government and other stakeholder approvals
  • Life jackets and other required accessories for canoeing
  • Tips to the staff
  • Beverages other than water

What to expect

Your first encounter with us will be at the meeting point at Saman Devalaya (a temple/shrine dedicated to God Saman), where you will be greeted and given a short brief on the safety, terrain and other important aspects with regard to the journey. The first part of the journey is comparatively easy and does not require any special canoeing skills, although you need to be fit to canoe for a long period of time, and may want to rest if you are weary. Along the route, you will witness the beauty of Mother Nature, including varied birdlife from white bellied eagles to bright coloured kingfishers to turquoise parrots to the darkest of commarants. The local activities take place on the river beds which include catamarans topped with wood and men in loin clothes digging up sand.

The landscape is always unique and never a repetition with hibiscus in its colourful glory sitting amidst the greener patches of trees. The gaggles of the women folk and the men getting about in their daily farming are bountiful. Your adventure will end at “Wagawatta”, a village where you will be met with our land crew. On the way, we will stop at one of the houses near the river bank to have lunch.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
End point

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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$190.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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