Kelani

In Sri Lanka, the Kelani River is a 145-kilometer-long (90-mile) river. It spans from the Sri Pada Mountain Range to Colombo, making it the country's fourth-longest river. Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Kegalle, Gampaha, and Colombo are among the Sri Lankan districts where it passes through or borders. The Kelani River also runs through Sri Lanka's capital, Colombo, and supplies 80 percent of the country's drinking water.

In its upper stages, the Kelani River contains two major tributaries: the Kehelgamu Oya and the Maskeli Oya. These two areas contribute to Sri Lanka's hydroelectric production by holding several important reservoirs, ponds, and power plants. The Kelani River has a number of tributaries in its lower reaches, the most prominent of which are the We Oya at Yatiyanthota, the Gurugoda Oya at Ruwanwella, and the Seethawaka Ganga at Avissawella.

The river holds religious and cultural significance for the people of Kelani Valley, who follow the country's Sinhala Buddhist traditions. On the river's banks, there is a Kelani temple that is recognized as a sacred location. Many people rely on the river for their livelihood because it is utilized for fishing, irrigation, and transportation. Sand mining is practiced along the river's banks, and it has harmed the river's health. Pollution and urban development can pose a threat to the river.

Length: 145-kilometer-long (90-mile)