Sri Lanka Route Guide · Airport transfers
Colombo Airport (CMB) to Kithulgala by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
Kithulgala is Sri Lanka's adventure sports base for white-water rafting, canyoning and forest walks.
Route at a glance
- From
- Colombo Airport (CMB)
- To
- Kithulgala
- Distance
- About 100 km
- Drive time
- 3 hours
- Best for
- Rafting and adventure.
The drive
You drive via Avissawella on the A7. The road is paved but winding in the last 30 km.
Best stops on the way
Kelani River
Rafting section with Grade 2 and 3 rapids.
Bridge on the River Kwai site
Film location near the river.
Choose your vehicle
Pick a vehicle by group size and luggage. These are average day rates across GoTourRide drivers; a one-way transfer is quoted by the driver, so request a quote for an exact price. You can also use our trip cost calculator.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Average day rate |
|---|---|---|
| Mini car | Up to 2 | About $61/day |
| Normal car | Up to 3 | About $66/day |
| SUV | Up to 3 | About $91/day |
| Large car | Up to 4 | About $75/day |
| Minivan | Up to 6 | About $103/day |
| Large van | Up to 10 | About $118/day |
| Minibus | Up to 15 | About $169/day |
Tips for this route
- Book rafting in advance, because trips run in the morning.
- Wear quick-dry clothing and carry a change.
Book a driver
Compare verified drivers on the drivers page, or ask us on WhatsApp if you would like to talk to a real person first.
Keep reading
- Adventure places in Sri Lanka
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Sigiriya
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Kandy
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Ella
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How far is Kithulgala from the airport?
About 100 km, or 3 hours.
Can I raft all year?
Most of the year, but the river is high and fast during heavy rain.