Embark on a compact yet immersive river expedition along Sri Lanka’s Mahaweli River, the island’s longest and most iconic waterway, with CCT Sri Lanka. This carefully crafted journey blends adventure kayaking, wilderness camping, and wildlife encounters, offering a short but powerful experience through the floodplains of Polonnaruwa.
As you paddle through sections of the Flood Plains National Park and Somawathiya National Park, you’ll experience a constantly changing landscape of wetlands, forest edges, and slow-moving river channels. Along the way, expect rich birdlife, river wildlife, and the raw beauty of Sri Lanka’s untouched interior ecosystems.
This overnight expedition is ideal for travelers seeking a short wilderness escape with a strong connection to nature and river life, ending at one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist sites.
Manampitiya to Somawathiya Temple
Best Season: Mid March – December
Availability: All year around
Advance Booking Required: 14 days (Wildlife Department permit required)
Starting Point: Manampitiya Bridge (Polonnaruwa region)
Start Time: 9:00 AM
Trip Duration: 1 Day / 1 Night
Total Distance: Approximately 30 km
Minimum Participants: 2 kayakers/expedition guests
Tenting Options: Shared or individual tents available
Price Includes
- All kayaking and camping equipment
- Full safety gear and life jackets
- Professional expedition guides and river crew
- 2 nights camping along the Mahaweli River
- Wildlife Department permit coordination
- Personal insurance coverage
- Pickup from Somawathiya Temple at the end of the expedition
- Drop-off to selected accommodation in Polonnaruwa
- All government taxes
Discounts
- Groups of 4 or more qualify for a 10% discount. Contact us for details
Restrictions
- Minimum age: 10 years (younger experienced kayakers may be considered)
- Weather and river conditions may affect routing or timing
- Do not leave plastic or litter behind
- Do not feed wild animals
- Guests must follow all safety instructions from guides
Itinerary
- Day 1: Paddle through Flood Plains National Park and set up camp near Somawathiya Temple
Day 2: Early morning breakfast and conclude the expedition at approximately 9:00 AM at Somawathiya Temple
Experience Highlights
- 1-night Mahaweli River expedition experience
- Multi-ecosystem kayaking through national park zones
- Wilderness camping in remote riverside locations
- Wildlife encounters including birds, elephants, and river fauna
- Guided river navigation and outdoor survival experience
- Authentic connection with Sri Lanka’s inland wilderness
- Campfire evenings under star-filled skies
- One of Sri Lanka’s most unique adventure journeys
Recommended to Bring
- Hat & sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Drinking water
- Comfortable outdoor clothing
- Mosquito repellent
- Waterproof bag for valuables
- Camera
- Fishing gear (optional)
- Change of clothes
Your Feedback Matters
Our drivers and service providers are instructed not to promote unrelated activities or encourage unnecessary shopping stops. We appreciate your feedback and reviews on Google after your experience.
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