Lake Gregory is a man-made lake that is situated in the middle of Nuwara Eliya, surrounded by British-inspired country houses and tea estates. It is in close proximity to almost every hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
The History
Gregory Lake or Reservoir was created in between 1872 and 1877 by Governor William Gregory by damming the Thalagala stream that flows from Pidurutalagala; the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka. Prior to this the area that is Gregory Lake today was a swamp. It was used by the British planters and officials for sunbathing, picnicking and recreational activities.
Gregory Lake Today
Gregory Lake is still used for recreational activities after going through a complete clean up and facelift courtesy of the government. There are new activities such as swan boats, pony rides, jet skiing and boating. The green is stacked with street food stalls catering to the local public that flock to the Lake as the British did all those years ago.
How to Get There
Lake Gregory is placed right in the middle of the town, so it is easily accessible from all over Nuwara Eliya whichever way you drive into town. There are buses that leave the central bus station at regular intervals. From Heritance Tea Factory it is approximately half an hour’s drive over a winding and picturesque road.
Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+
