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Belilena Cave, Kitulgala — Kegalle

Cover photo: Shinzan Murray (Unsplash)

District

Kegalle

Province

Sabaragamuwa

Best for

History buffs and cavers; 30,000-year-old prehistoric shelter above Kitulgala

Map

See it on the map

Large cavern in the Kitulgala hills about 8 km from town, where excavations in 1978-1983 uncovered Balangoda Man skeletal remains and tools dating back about 32,000 years. Reach by tuk-tuk plus a steep 30-45 minute village path from Kitulgala town; free entry, tip a local guide. Wear grippy shoes, carry a torch, and combine with rafting for a full Kitulgala day.

About this place

Large cavern in the Kitulgala hills where 1990s excavations found human fossils and tools tens of thousands of years old. Reach by tuk-tuk plus a steep 30-45 minute village path from Kitulgala town; free entry, tip a local guide. Wear grippy shoes, carry a torch, and combine with rafting for a full Kitulgala day.

Visitor brief

Good to know before you go

• Steep, slippery village path - wear grippy shoes and carry a torch; the cave interior is dark.
• Free entry with no formal office - a local villager guide is customary; agree any tip upfront.
• Leeches after rain; long socks and repellent help.
• Combine with a morning rafting session for a full Kitulgala day; carry water and snacks.

How to travel there

Base is Kitulgala town (A7 Colombo-Avissawella road; buses from Colombo and Kandy). Tuk-tuk ~8 km toward Inoya estate then a steep village footpath.

Where to stay

Kitulgala riverside eco-lodges, camps and guesthouses along the A7.

Nearby places

Kitulgala white-water rafting point, Makandawa Forest Reserve, Kelani River riverside restaurants, Kataran Oya mini-hydro villages

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