11 Beautiful Lakes in Sri Lanka You Must Visit In 2024

Ready for a lakeside story to remember? Dive into the heart of Sri Lanka's shimmering lakes!

In 2022, a whopping 719,978 tourists were soaked in Sri Lanka's wonders, as per SLTDA figures. So, why did this gem of an island attract so many wanderers? A significant draw is the best lakes in Sri Lanka. Each a work of art, these lakes paint a scene of serenity and vibrant hues that invigorates the soul and soothes the senses.

"To travel is to live," said Hans Christian Andersen, and if you haven't felt the heartbeat of Sri Lanka's pristine lakes, have you lived your travel dream?

Check out the beautiful lakes in Sri Lanka!

Explore the Most Beautiful Lakes in Sri Lanka 2023

Glistening under the tropical sun, the beautiful lakes in Sri Lanka invite travellers to a realm of serenity and splendour. These aquatic wonders are gateways to unforgettable lakeside adventures, from the heart of bustling cities to the serene countryside. Dive into our guide and let the ripples of Sri Lanka's lakeside charm captivate your wanderlust spirit.

• Semanikulam Lake, Arugam-Bay
• Kala Wewa Lake, Kala Weva
• Rotakulam Lake, Ampara
• Kandy Lake, Kandy
• Beira Lake, Colombo
• Dedduwa Lake, Bentota
• Bolgoda Lake, Colombo
• Kandalama Lake, Dambulla
• Panama Lake, Panama
• Gregory Lake, Nuwara-eliya
• Sembuwatta Lake, Matale

1. Semanikulam Lake, Arugam-Bay

Imagine a place where nature sings lullabies and the horizon merges with shimmering waters. Semanikulam Lake is the very epitome of such beautiful lakes in Sri Lanka. Situated in the famous Arugam Bay, the lake promises unparalleled sunsets with its radiant birdlife and gentle ripples.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Kumana National Park, Arugam Bay Beach

2. Kala Wewa Lake, Kala Weva

When you talk about the best lakes for boating in Sri Lanka, Kala Wewa must feature on that list. This expansive water body in Kala Weva is framed by distant mountain ranges, offering solitude and scenic beauty.

• Best Time to Visit: June to August
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Avukana Buddha Statue, Kala Weva Dam

3. Rotakulam Lake, Ampara

A paradise for angling aficionados, Rotakulam beckons with its calm waters, making it an ideal local lake for fishing in Sri Lanka. Here, the thrill of the catch and the serenity of nature come together in a harmonious symphony.

• Best Time to Visit: March to July
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Deegawapi Stupa, Senanayake Samudra Lake

4. Kandy Lake, Kandy

Nestled amidst the hills, Kandy Lake is a testament to historical elegance and nature's splendour. With its intriguing legends and vibrant lotus blooms, no visit to Kandy is complete without seeking information about Kandy Lake, Sri Lanka.

• Best Time to Visit: December to April
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Temple of the Tooth, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

5. Beira Lake, Colombo

A sanctuary amidst urban sprawl, Beira Lake is where the city finds its reflection. Famed for hosting some of the top lakeside resorts in Sri Lanka, it's a must-visit to experience the harmonious blend of nature amidst a bustling city.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Gangaramaya Temple, Seema Malaka

6. Dedduwa Lake, Bentota

Dedduwa Lake, with its shimmering waters and lush surroundings, serves as an idyllic backdrop for romantic boat rides and strolls. It's Bentota's hidden gem and a haven for nature lovers seeking the perfect scenic lakeside picnic spots in Sri Lanka.

• Best Time to Visit: November to April
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Bentota Beach, Brief Garden

7. Bolgoda Lake, Colombo

The largest freshwater lake in the Western province, Bolgoda, is a marvel. Whether you're seeking adventure sports or simply a calm afternoon observing nature, it's the place to be. Don't miss out on the popular lakeside resorts in Sri Lanka that line its shores.

• Best Time to Visit: January to March
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Leisure World Water Park, Bolgoda Dam

8. Kandalama Lake, Dambulla

With scenic beauty rivalling any renowned tourist spot, Kandalama Lake promises reflections of Dambulla's famous rocky outcrops and mesmerising sunsets. Visiting Horton Plains Lake is often recommended, but Kandalama has its untouched charm.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress

9. Panama Lake, Panama

Panama Lake is where serenity meets spectacle. Birds taking flight at dawn, water buffalo cooling off, and the distant sound of fishermen singing; it's a slice of Sri Lankan pastoral paradise.

• Best Time to Visit: May to July
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Lahugala Kitulana National Park, Okanda Temple

10. Gregory Lake, Nuwara-eliya

Nestled amidst the tea country, Gregory Lake is the heart of Nuwara-Eliya. From boat rides amidst mists to lakeside horse rides, it's a touch of old-world charm in the island's 'Little England'.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Victoria Park, Moon Plains

11. Sembuwatta Lake, Matale

A man-made lake on a tea estate, Sembuwatta is pure magic. Its pine tree borders and chilly waters offer a stark yet beautiful contrast to the typical beautiful lakes in Sri Lanka.

• Best Time to Visit: August to October
• Nearby Tourist Spots: Aluvihara Rock Cave Temple, Riverston Peak

Conclusion

Every droplet tells a story; in Sri Lanka, the tales are as vast and deep as the lakes. From the misty highlands to the golden coastlines, these aquatic wonders are waiting to share their secrets with you. So, whether you're an avid adventurer, a peace seeker, or a romantic soul, there's a lakeside narrative tailored just for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Lakes in Sri Lanka

Q1: What are some of the prominent lakes in Sri Lanka?
A1: Sri Lanka boasts a rich tapestry of lakes that dot its landscape. Some prominent ones include:

• Semanikulam Lake in Arugam-Bay
• Kala Wewa Lake in Kala Weva
• Bolgoda Lake in Colombo
• Kandalama Lake in Dambulla
• Gregory Lake in Nuwara-eliya
• Kandy Lake in Kandy

Q2: Can visitors engage in water activities or boating on these lakes?
A2: Yes, several of these lakes offer a range of water activities:

• Kala Wewa Lake is renowned for boating experiences.
• Bolgoda Lake, being expansive, is an ideal spot for water sports and leisurely boat rides.
• At Gregory Lake, visitors can boat and enjoy lakeside horse rides.

Q3: Are there any eco-friendly initiatives for lake conservation?
A3: There are several eco-friendly initiatives for lake conservation in Sri Lanka. Some of these initiatives include:

• Reducing pollution
• Reducing water abstraction.
• Rehabilitating degraded lakes
• Educating the public

Q4: Which lakes offer the most scenic views and photographic opportunities?
A4: For those with a keen eye for beauty:

• Semanikulam Lake promises unparalleled sunsets.
• Dedduwa Lake serves as an idyllic backdrop for photos with its serene setting.
• Kandalama Lake reflects Dambulla's rocky outcrops, offering splendid photographic opportunities.

Q5: Are there any recreational parks or attractions surrounding the lakes?
A5: Yes, there are a few recreational parks or attractions surrounding the lakes, including:

• Close to Semanikulam Lake is the Kumana National Park.
• Kala Wewa Lake has the majestic Avukana Buddha Statue nearby.
• Rotakulam Lake is a stone's throw away from the Deegawapi Stupa.

Q6: Can visitors swim or bathe in the lakes?
A6: It is not advisable to swim or bathe in lakes in Sri Lanka, except for those specifically designated for swimming. This is because many lakes in Sri Lanka are polluted with sewage and other contaminants. Swimming in these lakes can increase the risk of contracting waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea.

Some of the lakes in Sri Lanka that are safe for swimming include:

• Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya
• Mahaweli River in Kandy
• Madu Ganga River in Anuradhapura
• Beruwala Beach in Kalutara
• Pasikuda Beach in Trincomalee

Q7: Are there any lakeside resorts or accommodations available?
A7: Beira Lake and Bolgoda Lake are particularly known for their high-end lakeside resorts, providing both comfort and mesmerising views.

Q8: Are there any religious or cultural significance associated with these lakes?
A8: Kandy Lake in Kandy holds notable historical and cultural significance as a testament to the city's rich past.

Q9: What wildlife or bird species can be spotted around these lakes?
A9: Semanikulam Lake, among others, is abundant in vibrant birdlife, making it a haven for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.

Q10: Are fishing activities allowed in these lakes?
A10: Rotakulam Lake, for instance, is highlighted as an ideal spot for fishing, suggesting that certain lakes in Sri Lanka permit angling. However, it's always best to check local regulations.