Beira Lake Tourism

Type of destination: Historical Landmark/Natural Attraction

Ideal visit duration: 1-2 hours

Beira Lake is a serene body of water located at the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling capital. Spanning approximately 65 hectares, it once covered a much larger area but has since been reduced in size due to urbanization. The origin of the lake's name is thought to be from the Portuguese word 'beira,' meaning 'bank' or 'edge.' Historically, Beira Lake played a crucial role in defending the city during colonial times. Today, it acts as a tranquil escape from the urban environment, offering a picturesque setting with its waters mirroring the skyline of Colombo. The lake is split into two sections by a bridge and is surrounded by many important landmarks, including the Seema Malaka temple—a peaceful Buddhist temple designed by the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa—and the Gangaramaya Temple, one of the city’s most significant religious sites. Activities such as boat rides add to the recreational appeal of the lake, while the surrounding paths and benches invite leisurely walks or moments of reflection. The lake also hosts the Colombo Rowing Club, showing its importance to local sports culture.

Top 5 Reviews on Beira Lake

petermY2777LY

Wrote on 23rd Aug, 2023

Beira Lake

Beira Lake is a lake in the centre of Colombo. The average depth is 18 feet and it is surrounded by many large businesses in the city

DarioSaraB

Wrote on 3rd Apr, 2022

Beautiful

This lake in Colombo is a really nice spot, both for the temple on the water and for the lovely ride on swan boats. You can rent one for 30 minuts and pedal on the water among many smily local people...

olivehoover

Wrote on 6th Apr, 2020

Nice lake

Beira lake is an artificial lake, close to the centre of Colombo. It has a Buddhist temple inside the lake that you can visit paying an entry fees. Besides the Seema Malakaya Temple, there is Lover..

nwoon

Wrote on 9th Feb, 2020

Tranquil escape from the busy streets

Really nice lake that is well maintained. It's beautiful to walk around and recommend crossing the bridge to the small resting area. The temple is also quite nice, and entry will get you into the othe..

premsathi

Wrote on 3rd Dec, 2019

Beira Lake Colombo

Beira lake had a Buddhist temple inside the lake. There are entry fees for entering the temple. And it has a boating service inside the which was not operational due to some technical issues on the ..

Beira Lake Tourism

Beira Lake Tourism

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