Lake Gregory, located in the charming area of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka is a popular destination that attracts both foreign tourists and locals alike. Named after Sir William Gregory in 1873, this prominent attraction is known for its water sports and recreational activities. The park surrounding the lake offers a multitude of options, including speed boats, swan boats, dinky boats, pony rides, and more. Additionally, there is a bicycle path encircling the lake, and separate areas with fast food stalls where visitors can enjoy a meal or snack.
Top Things to Do at Lake Gregory
Lake Gregory provides a plethora of activities, catering to adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here are some of the top things to do at Lake Gregory:
Water Sports in Lake Gregory
Enjoy a variety of water sports at Lake Gregory. Popular options include jet skiing, water-walking balls, and windsurfing. Visitors can also take a leisurely boat ride or paddle around the lake on swan-shaped boats.
Pony Rides
Delight in pony rides that are enjoyable for both children and adults. Trotting around the lake on a pony allows you to appreciate the beautiful scenery.
Picnics
The tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty of the lake make it an ideal spot for picnics. Relax on the grassy banks, savor a meal, and soak in the stunning views.
Nature Walks
Surrounded by lush green hills and forests, Lake Gregory offers an ideal setting for nature walks. Explore the exquisite surroundings and breathe in the fresh air.
Cycling
For those seeking a more active adventure, cycling is a great way to explore the lake and its surroundings. Rent a bicycle and take a leisurely ride along the lake’s perimeter.
Birdwatching
Lake Gregory is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. Observe and identify different bird species in their natural habitat.
In general, Lake Gregory offers a wide array of activities for visitors of all ages and interests, making it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.
How to Reach Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya
There are various transportation options available to reach Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya. Here are the details of each:
Tuk Tuk: Tuk Tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Sri Lanka. You can take a Tuk Tuk from nearby towns to reach Gregory Lake. For example, it takes approximately 2-3 hours by Tuk Tuk from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.
Taxi: Another convenient option is to hire a taxi to reach Gregory Lake. There are many taxi services available in Sri Lanka. The taxi journey from Kandy to Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya takes around 2-3 hours.
Car: If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car from Colombo or Kandy and drive to Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours from Colombo and 2-3 hours from Kandy.
You can contact our trusted tour operators for further details.
Rail: The most scenic way to reach Nuwara Eliya is by train. Take the train from Kandy to Nanu Oya, and then hire a taxi or Tuk Tuk to reach Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya. The train journey offers breathtaking views of the tea plantations and hills and takes around 3-4 hours.
Air: Charter flight operators offer scheduled flights from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya during April, August, and December. Depending on reservations, there is a daily flight available during these months. The flight departs from Colombo City (Waters Edge) water aerodrome at 10:30 hours and arrives at Nuwara Eliya (Gregory Lake) at approximately 11:00 hours. The flight duration between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya is only 25 minutes, offering a much quicker alternative to the six-hour journey by land. Scheduled seasonal flights provide domestic and international visitors with the opportunity to reach this popular destination during its peak season.
Choose the mode of transportation that suits your preferences and enjoy your journey to the beautiful Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya.
