Sri Lanka is a tiny island that has much to surprise and delight visitors, in the way of natural beauty. Despite being famous for endless tropical beaches and turquoise seas, there are vast lakes, high peaks and thick forests if one is to venture inland.
Bolgoda Lake is believed to be the largest natural, fresh water lake in Sri Lanka. The body of water spans three hundred and forty seven square kilometres but only reaches a maximum depth of fifty feet. It is located on the outskirts of Colombo, the country’s capital. The Lake consists of North Lake, which is the larger portion, most of which is located in the Colombo District; South Lake is situated in the Kalutara District. The Bolgoda Ganga is the river which connects the two bodies of water. Bolgoda Lake connects up to the Weras Ganga Basin, the neighbouring coastal suburb of which is home to the ever popular Mount Lavinia Beach overlooked by the old colonial Mount Lavinia Hotel.
A fun way to experience the lake is to take a boat trip and discover all the natural wonders, which includes mangrove forests. Paddle boats and row boats are available for those looking to splash about in the water. This is especially fun for kids. A few hours out on the lake is also recommended for bird watchers as the lake is rich in biodiversity and attracts many species of the feathered kind. The lake has a small island that can be booked by private groups for a picnic or party. There are other small islands that were used by ferrymen in olden times. In fact the lake provided a hunting and recreational ground for British Officers who were stationed in Colombo, during British rule.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.