Beira Lake, Freshwater reservoir in central Colombo, Sri Lanka
Beira Lake is a freshwater reservoir in central Colombo featuring two islands connected by steel bridges. Commercial buildings line the water's edge, making it a defined water body in the heart of the city.
The Portuguese constructed this water system in 1521 as a defensive barrier against local inhabitants. Crocodiles were placed to guard the perimeter, turning the lake into a natural line of defense.
The Simamalaka Viharaya Buddhist temple sits on one of the islands and was built with support from Muslim patrons. The temple's blue roof tiles mark the lake as an important religious site that brings people from different faiths together.
The lake is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM with no entry fees required. Swan boat rentals are available for those interested in exploring the water.
The second island, Kaala Doowa, houses a population of rabbits and serves as a preferred spot for watching sunsets over the city. Visitors are often surprised to find this quiet place supporting wildlife in the middle of a busy urban area.
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