The Beira Lake is one of the well-known landmarks situated in the heart of Colombo having a history of over 500 years from the 16th Century during the invasion of the Portuguese to then Ceylon. For one who looks forward for a waver from the concrete jungle, this tranquil lake is a place of respite.
The Beira Lake inherited from the Portuguese during the Colonial Era of the Portuguese, still remains in the heart of Colombo bordered by the skyscrapers, government buildings, warehouses, Conventional centres and business tycoons of the city. It is said that the name Beira in Portuguese means “Bank or Edge of the Lake”.
A short History
The lake was initially constructed by the Portuguese as a moat for protection against the forces of the then kings who tried to drive the Portuguese invasion away but failed to do so. Thereafter the Dutch built their strong point in the port strengthening their defences within followed by the British who then cleansed the lake of all its perils such as crocodiles to utilise it for recreational purposes such as rowing and Yachting. The lake also became a means of transportation due to its well-connected network to other cities.
Lake of the Modern Era
To this day, many schools practice their sports such as rowing on the Lake. With a maximum length of 1.5 Km, the lake is home to Colombo Rowing Club for over 140 years.
Needless to mention, the spectacular view of the high-rise buildings portrayed at the horizon and the railroad passing above connecting canals, the location is a package that includes adventure, picnics, religious harmony, romance, peace of mind, workouts and for those who wish for some “Me time” the tranquillity of the lake will divert your attention away from the stress and buzz of the city.
You may also be able to witness photography of marriage couples by the lake either in the Seema Malakaya temple or close to the Gangarama temple. The bride will be dressed in the traditional Osariya whilst the groom in the Nilame Costume.
The lake is home to some very mysterious birds such as Cormorants, Egrets, Herons, Painted Storks, ducks, the abundantly nestled big spot-billed Pelicans and many more. Therefore, you do not have to head deep into the wilderness to watch beautiful birds but cherish the beauty of the lake being an audience to its kaleidoscopic mortal ornamental.
Things to do
Some of the noteworthy attractions in and around this lake are:
- Seema Malakaya Meditation Centre
- Gangaramaya Temple floating atop the waters
- 8˚ on the Lake- A massive floating luxury eatery by Cinnamon Lakeside
- Suspension Bridge to the Garden Island
- Lovers’ Island- A small garden island in the middle of the lake connected by the suspension bridge
- Eateries
- Shopping bazars and boutiques
- Jogging track
- Boat/Swan Rides
- Dutch Museum
- Lotus Tower
Either if you have just landed in Sri Lanka or are about to bid farewell to this pearl, this place a ideal for a warmup ahead of your journey within the country or a warm down to wrap-up all those nostalgic memories that have been engraved for life.
Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to the lake although the prices of the rides and activities will depend. The lake is open from 7am until 6pm to the public.
To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our post.
How to reach
From the Airport, the lake is about an hour’s journey for 35Km away and besides if one is to stay in Colombo itself especially due to luxurious hotels around the place, the access to this lake is much easier and may be at walking distance.
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