The Beira Lake

Beira Lake is a lake in the centre of Colombo, surrounded by the Fort, Slave Island, Kollupitiya and Pettah. Though much smaller than it once was, it is still a calm open space in the city, with temples, parks, walkways and boats.

History

The lake dates from the Portuguese period in the 16th century. To protect their fort in Colombo from attacks by the Kandyan kingdom, the Portuguese dug channels through the marshland around it, using streams from the nearby hills. This created a body of water that became Beira Lake.

The Dutch made fuller use of the lake. They flooded low ground and built canals, creating islands. One became known as Slave Island, where the Dutch kept slaves. Another, once called Captain's Garden, is home to the Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam, one of Colombo's oldest Hindu temples. Another island held a coconut plantation, perhaps giving the name Polwatta ("coconut garden") to the area behind today's President's House.

The British used the lake for recreation, clearing crocodiles and introducing rowing, sailing and an annual regatta. A botanical garden was laid out in 1810 on Slave Island, linked with Kew Gardens in London; Kew Road recalls it. By the late 19th century, pollution and reclamation had shrunk and harmed the lake.

The name

The origin of the name is uncertain. One theory links it to a Portuguese engineer named Beira. Another points to a Dutch engineer, de Beer; a stone found in the lake reads "de Beer 1700". Others say "beira" is Portuguese for edge or bank.

Size

The lake once covered around 160 hectares; today it is much smaller, around 65 hectares, after decades of building.

What to do

• Seema Malaka: the meditation hall on the lake, designed by Geoffrey Bawa and run by Gangaramaya Temple.
• Swan boats: two-seater pedal boats for hire.
• Walks: paths along the shore and bridges to small islands.
• Birds: pelicans, cormorants and herons are often seen.

How long it takes

One to two hours.

When to go

Late afternoon and evening, when it is cooler and the lights come on.

Getting there

The lake is central, a short tuk-tuk ride from Fort, Kollupitiya or Pettah.

Practical tips

• Do not swim; the water is not clean.
• Dress modestly to visit the Seema Malaka.

Visit the Kailawasanathan kovil and Colombo Fort. See things to do in Colombo and Colombo hotels.