Kelani River

Kelani Ganga or Kelani River is one of the main rivers in Sri Lanka. Although not the largest in the country, the river is considered highly important for the water requirements of Colombo. 

The starting point of the Kelani River is the Sri Pada mountain range whereby its travels through the hill country and ultimately flows in to the ocean at Colombo. The flow of the river changes during the monsoon period and the dry season. For instance, during monsoon the river flow is 800-1500 m³/s and during the dry season it is some 20-25 m³/s.

Kelani River has become the main source of living for many people living close by.  It is used for transportation, hydropower generation, fisheries, irrigation and sewage disposal. Furhermore, one of the main activities that take place near the Kelani River is sand extraction whereby 600-800,000 m³ of sand is being extracted on an annual basis. This activity has its many adverse affects and the results are already in the open. While sand mining has adverse effects, it is considered vital in terms of national economy. Furthermore, there are hundreds of people whose main livelihood is sand extraction. 

The Kelani temple positioned on the banks of the Kelani River is famous and considered a sacred site amongst local Buddhists. Furthermore, there are many people whose lives revolve around this great river which also adds immense beauty to the natural splendour of this unique island.  
Take time to visit the beauty of this magnificent river, along with the various attractions found within close proximity.

Rivers in Sri Lanka