Nuwara Eliya, also called ‘Little England’ by visitors, is home to the famous Gregory Lake in Sri Lanka. The man-made lake spans over 200 acres and provides all the fun you can imagine. From paved paths for strolling to jet skiing on the amazing waters, there are a ton of activities for kids and adults. Nestled among hills close to the highest peak in Sri Lanka and offering serenity, the lake exudes charm like nowhere else. It is a perfect destination for the weekend or even a weekday with your entire family when you want to get away from city life.
Discover Gregory Lake In Sri Lanka
Gregory Lake Sri Lanka is located 610 metres below the highest peak in Sri Lanka, the Pidurutalagala Peak making it a scenic marvel. Pidurutalagala’s Nanu Oya stream is Lake Gregory’s tributary among others. While the lake has beautiful emerald-coloured water, the backdrop of hills and lush greenery make the lake stand out even more. You can see paths around the lake and there is no dearth of roads for ease of access. It is among the most aesthetically pleasing lakes in Sri Lanka, especially during the summers when the city dwellers are looking for some relief from the heat.
Lake Gregory’s water is mainly used for various horticulture-related activities and greenhouse irrigation, particularly during the dry season. Today, it has become a hub for families to enjoy a weekend away from city life. The clear water is perfect for boating and a variety of other water sports while the surrounding area is great for walking. You can walk, bicycle, and spend all the time you want near the lake area as it is always bustling with flora and fauna that makes you relax and rejuvenate even after spending little time.
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Sunday
Best time to visit: Throughout the year but during weekdays for less crowd
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Delve Into The History Of Gregory Lake
The Gregory Lake is also called Lake Gregory and Gregory Reservoir. It is named after Sir William Gregory, the British Governor who built the artificial lake in 1873. He served from 1872 to 1877. The lake area was a bogland before but Sir Gregory decided to renovate it and turn it into a serene lake. After the completion of the lake’s renovation, a government agent put some fish inside the lake. In 1913, the lake water was sent through a tunnel to power a hydropower station. This still takes place to this day.
Scenic Points At Gregory Lake In Sri Lanka
Image Credit: Rehman Abubakr for Wikipedia Commons
Gregory Lake is spread across a wide area and there are a few phases from which you can get a view of the majestic lake. The first phase is near the town and you will be required to purchase an entrance ticket before you can go in and have a great time at the lake. The second phase is close to the Anicut. You don’t have to purchase an entry fee when you come from this side of the lake. The third phase is the opposite side of the Nuwara Eliya town and even this does not require you to purchase an entry ticket.
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Fun Things To Do At Gregory Lake
You will never get bored at Gregory Lake Sri Lanka as there are so many recreational activities you can participate in here.
1. Take a leisurely walk or bicycle
The best way to enjoy the panoramic vistas of the lake is to take a walk or ride a bicycle that you can hire at the lake premises. Paved paths are created to make it easy to walk or cycle at your own pace so you can take in all the cool breeze and relax.
2. Boating
The lake is the spot for a range of boating and adventure activities. You can enjoy speedboating, paddle boating (in an adorable swan boat), jet skiing, and kayaking. Get your adrenaline pumping and relish the windsurfing like never before at Gregory Lake.
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3. Picnic
Bring your lunch or buy some at the food stalls nearby and spend some quality time with your loved ones by picnicking. There are ample benches and tables so you can easily eat amongst the tranquillity while you spend happy moments with your family.
4. Pony ride
Have you ever been on a pony ride? If not, this is your chance! Kids will love this activity as the little pony trots along the side of the lake providing the perfect view as far as the eyes can see. It will surely be a kid’s favourite moment!
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Ticket Details Of Gregory Lake Sri Lanka
Image Credit: Sendaru Perera for Wikimedia Commons
The fees for the major activities at Gregory Lake are as follows.
Entry fee: INR 56 for adults, INR 6 for kids, and free for kids below 6 years
Paddle boat fee: INR 694 for 30 minutes
Speedboat fee: Starting from INR 1111 onwards for 30 minutes
Motorboat fee: INR 1111 for 30 minutes
Bicycle fee: INR 56 for 1 hour
Kayak fee: INR 555 for 30 minutes
Jet ski fee: INR 972 for 30 minutes
Places To Visit Near Gregory Lake
If you are visiting Gregory Lake, here are some other interesting places you should visit.
- Lover’s Leap Waterfall: You need to trek to the tea factory to the tea manager’s bungalow to reach this amazing waterfall.
- Single Tree Hill: Reaching the top of the mountain gives you pure bliss and the view from there is beyond your imagination, especially during sunrise.
- Pedro Mountain: The short name for Piduruthalagala, it is the place that houses a radio transmitting station. You can see it at the peak of the mountain which stands tall.
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How To Reach Gregory Lake
Gregory Lake Sri Lanka is 700 m from Nuwara Eliya. You have the following options for reaching Nuwara Eliya.
1. Seaplane
You can get on a seaplane from Colombo Airport to Nuwara Eliya and it takes just 30 minutes to reach. Cinnamon Air offers seaplane services where you can enjoy a fantastic view.
2. Train
The Udarata Menike train starting from Colombo to Badulla will be the best train ride you ever had because of the panoramic and scenic views. You can hire a cab from there to Nuwara Eliya.
3. Road
You can get a cab from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya which will be around 171 km. You can take the Colombo-Awissawella-Hatton route to reach the iconic town of Nuwara Eliya.
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Gregory Lake Sri Lanka provides lots of fun recreational activities that will keep the entire family busy so don’t forget to include it in your trip to Sri Lanka! Even if you are on a tight schedule, spend some time among nature and create memories with loved ones by paddle boating or just strolling along the pristine waters of the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gregory Lake In Sri Lanka
When is the best time to visit the lake?
You can visit in April and May as the weather is good. You can enjoy a range of activities such as boating and picnicking.
Is Gregory Lake natural or man-made?
It is a man-made lake created in 1873.
What recreational activities are there in Lake Gregory?
Walking, birdwatching, boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and pony riding are some of the top activities to do.
Can we swim in the lake?
No, swimming is prohibited in the lake as the water is not suitable for such activities.
How many days to stay at Nuwara Eliya?
A minimum of two to three days will do as you can cover most attractions, even taking your own time doing so.
Is the lake state-owned?
Yes, the lake is owned by the state. Some of the surrounding areas are owned by the state while others are privately owned.
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