The Makandawa Forest Reserve in Kitulgala (195 Ha) was established to protect the watershed of the Kelani River and is home to many of Sri Lanka’s endemic fauna & flora. This area is also famous for its adventure activities including rafting on Grade 3 and 4 rapids down the Kelani River and jungle treks or mountain bike rides through jungle-clad hills and plantations growing low-country tea and rubber. The breathtaking scenery here was used for the filming of the Oscar-winning classic `The Bridge over the River Kwai’ by David Lean. The unique experience of visiting this Kitulgala forest reserve is the boat trip across the river.