Lake Gregory, reservoir in Sri Lanka

Lake Gregory is a large reservoir in the center of Nuwara Eliya surrounded by lush mountains. The water is calm and clear, with paved paths around its banks, rest areas, and facilities for boating and water sports activities.

The site was a swampy bog at the foot of the hills bordering Nuwara Eliya until 1873, when Governor Sir William Gregory authorised damming the Thalagala stream, which rises on Mount Pidurutalagala, to free land for the town's expansion. In 1881 C. J. R. Le Mesurier, Assistant Government Agent for Nuwara Eliya, stocked the lake with trout. In 1913 its water was diverted into a tunnel feeding the 'Blackpool' hydro power station between the town and Nanu Oya, which still supplies the town.

The reservoir takes its name from Sir William Gregory, the British governor who authorised its creation in 1873. In British times it was used for water sports and recreation, and the shoreline is still a gathering place for walks and boating.

The lake sits in the centre of Nuwara Eliya, with paths along its banks for walking and cycling. Boats can be hired on the water, and food stalls stand near the shore. The water is drawn off through a tunnel to the Blackpool hydro power station between the town and Nanu Oya.

In 1913 the lake's water was diverted into a tunnel leading to a hydro power station at 'Blackpool', between the town and Nanu Oya. That station still supplies electricity to Nuwara Eliya today, so the reservoir doubles as the town's power source.