Paddle through the picturesque waterways of this paradise isle
Sri Lanka is home to a host of beautiful waterways surrounded by lush greenery that sets a truly tranquil ambiance. So make the most of these views by either hopping on a boat or taking a leisurely stroll. We've listed out the popular and well-known destinations. If you plan to take a dip make sure you consult the nearby centres on which areas are safe for swimming or lookout for Danger boards. Be sure to wear bright life jackets before getting on a boat.
Gregory Lake
Gregory’s Lake situated surrounding a luscious green stretch of grass, serves as a hub for recreational activities in Nuwara Eliya. Built by Governor William Gregory during the British era, the lake is a highly sought after destination by both local and foreign trippers and is a famous spot for boat rides. You will find a number of swan and paddle boats lining its banks ready to offer you a relaxed ride and a splendid view of the surrounding panorama. This marvellous river escape is sure to cherish you with pleasant memories in your trip to hill country.
Madu Ganga (Madu River)
Madu Ganga, situated roughly 74 km from Colombo is in the Southern coastal region near Balapitiya. A renowned aquatic sight, a wetland river safari in the Madu Ganga will be quite long roughly taking between 2-3 hours. So be sure to take essentials such as water bottles, sun glasses and a hat for shade from the scorching sun. Behold the lush green mangrove swamps on your way with care and set eyes on migrant and native birds and fish. You’ll probably spot the Buddhist temple named Koth Doowa Rajamaha Viharaya. Another remarkable spot is the cinnamon-processing site. Don’t forget to avail yourself to some fish therapy and feel the tickle as fish nibble the dead skin on your feet.
Beira Lake
Located in the heart of Colombo, Beira Lake is a unique spot to hang out with friends or family. Stroll down the bridge that leads to ‘lover’s island’ or take a ride out on the lake on two-seater swan boats (three can fit in too). Take care not to bump into a few ducks or pelicans or other giant beaked birds. The Seema Malaka on the lake adorned with elegant Buddha statues are a striking site from a distance. Drop into the nearby tea shop or cafes for a refreshing brew after a ride on a scorching hot day.
Diyawanna Oya
Run by the Sri Lanka Navy, the Diyawanna boat service is an exciting recreation activity. On your ride you will be able to marvel the iconic Sri Lanka’s Parliament designed by Geoffrey Bawa. You’ll spot your fair share of nature too, with Pelicans nesting on trees, kingfishers, cormorants and Indian pond herons are other attractions of the place. One can even choose to leisurely stroll through the paved public walk. In the early hours of the day or just before sunset the lake provides a relaxing ambience and livens up with joggers and families on an evening out.
Koggala Lagoon
The mysterious mangrove island that was the inspiration for Sri Lankan author Martin Wickrmasinghe’s famous novel ‘Madol Doova’ is located in the large freshwater lagoon in Koggala. The island has a thick mud shore with a small clearing fitted with a wooden dock. Many who have read the book ride to the Island in an attempt to relive the story. Also in the Koggala Lagoon is the, Kothduwa, Kuruluduwa, Thambigeduwa, Cinnamon Island and another hosting a Buddhist Temple.
You would also be able to observe crabs, prawns and lobsters who have made home in the brackish waters. A destination for bird watching, this is also a home to several endemic plant species.
Hamilton Canal
Named after British officer Garving Hamilton who constructed it, the canal was refurbished in 2014 as an ecotourism destination. The new suspension bridge supported by two castle towers is one of the highlights of the area. The riverbank decorated with paved walkways and paintings makes it a great place for an evening stroll or an exciting boat ride. Eventually the canal joins the Negombo Lagoon.
Muthurajawela
A boat ride through mysterious Muthurajawela offers the chance to explore the nature’s beauty amidst dense mangroves. Meaning “swamp of pearls” in Sinhalese, the wetland is a protected area open to the public. 192 species of flora including 16 different species of mangrove and 209 species of vertebrate fauna can be found at Muthurajawela. The boat safari passes through the local fishing villages of Muthurajawela and the experience is best when you journey in the morning. The easiest way of getting about the marsh is to turn up at the Muthurajawela Marsh Centre
