Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake) Tourism

Kandy Lake, also known as Bogambara Lake, is a man-made lake located at the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, and was created in 1807 by the last ruler of the kingdom of Kandy, King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. The lake is situated beside the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) and is considered an icon of the city. Designed for aesthetic purposes, the lake features a decorative island in its center. The lake shore is lined with the Cloud Wall (Walakulu Bamma), which is a beautiful, decorative wall with wave-like patterns. The history of the lake is also marked by a tragic event, the execution of rebels by drowning in the lake during the British colonial era. Today, it serves as a serene spot for a leisurely stroll and offers a picturesque view of the temple and the surrounding hills. It supports local wildlife, including a variety of fish, birds, and monitor lizards. The lake is also a significant cultural feature, contributing to the many religious and cultural events that take place in Kandy, such as the famous Esala Perahera festival.