Tranquilizing Bolgoda Lake

2016 Sep 6

by Yasonil Piyatissa

Less than a mere hour away from Colombo glides the soothing Bolgoda Lake. Only a hop, step and a jump away from the chaos, lays the lake that’s comfortably hidden away by acres of untouched land and simple dwellings. The recently carpeted smooth roads guarantees you an easy drive that will ultimately take you down a contrastingly tiny pathlined with rubber trees and rustic woods. Words cannot explain that moment of wide eyed wonder one feels towards nature as you eventually arrive at the magical opening that beholds the picturesque sight of a serene lake, complete with the view of birds, trees and flowers.

Bolgoda is the ideal destination to enjoy a spontaneous retreat while escaping an uncontrollably hectic schedule. To be able to sip a chilled drink and melt into a book, while lounging on a pier that lingers above the water, is the perfect remedy for your constant headaches and rising tension.  The surrounding nurtures a vibe of undisturbed calm that immediately relaxes your body and even soothes your soul.

The best part about Bolgoda is that it not only offers the best of nature but also hosts a number of exquisite bungalows and hotels well suited for a lush vacation. The prices for accommodation range from very affordable to somewhat overpriced, depending on how extravagant you want your stay to be. Nonetheless, the budget for a trip to the lake is much cheaper compared to many other destinations around Sri Lanka. Bed and breakfast for two would approximately be roughly between Rs.6,000-Rs.25,000 per night. The best place to spend your vacation would be a bungalow equipped with a pool and BBQ machine, so that you can enjoy your privacy and set up a delicious feast on the pier while under a starry moonlit sky. If you are unable to book a bungalow I would strongly recommend even booking a luxurious but extremely affordable cabin at the Purple Coot Ayurveda Retreat situated in the heart of Bolgoda.

While this lakeside is best known as place that is a calming retreat, it also has a few activities for even the ones who cannot manage to simply sit still; most places offer kayaks or jet skis for rent and motor boat rides for those wanting an adrenaline rush. And if those options are too strenuous for the vacation you have in mind, you can organize a day to go fishing by the lake as a pleasant activity!

All in all, I would highly recommend planning a trip to Bolgoda as soon as possible as it is undoubtedly worth your while. Simply book a hotel online and get into your vehicle for a quick drive because, a luxury vacation that would be a shame to miss out on awaits you. Nothing gets much better at calming you down compared to watching gentle ripples sway on the waters while the soothing rustle of leaves can be heard in the background. Therefore, for your next vacation make sure you pack your favorite novel, grab a bottle of wine and head on towards Bolgoda Lake!