Lonar Lake, also known as Lonar Crater, is a saline, soda lake located in the small town of Lonar, about 79 km from Buldhana city in Maharashtra. Declared a National Geo-heritage Monument, this lake is unlike any other in India. It was created when a meteorite slammed into the Earth during the Pleistocene Epoch, making it one of only four hyper-velocity impact craters in basaltic rock in the world—the other three being in Brazil.
The crater rim stretches to 1.8 km in diameter, while the lake itself has a mean diameter of 1.2 km and lies about 137 m below the rim. Scientists once believed the crater to be about 52,000 years old, but newer studies suggest it could be as ancient as 576,000 years.
Yet Lonar is not just about science. It is where geology meets mythology. Local legends say the lake was named after the demon Lonasura (or Lavanasura), whom Lord Vishnu is believed to have destroyed here. This fascinating blend of fact and folklore makes Lonar one of Maharashtra’s best-preserved secrets.
Tucked Away Like Another World
Step into Lonar, and it feels like you’ve left Earth behind. This is the only saltwater lake in India formed by a meteorite impact, and it continues to puzzle researchers with its chemistry and ecosystems. Imagine a cosmic fireball striking Earth, carving a massive crater, and filling it with shimmering waters that change colours—from emerald green to pink depending on the season. That’s Lonar: otherworldly, yet right here in Maharashtra.
The Cosmic Creation Story
When the meteorite hit the Deccan Plateau, it blasted through volcanic basalt rock, leaving behind the giant hollow that became Lonar Crater. Today, it is a natural laboratory studied by NASA and the Geological Survey of India. From its unique mineral composition to its seasonal water colour shifts, the lake still holds mysteries that make scientists and travelers alike stop in awe.
A Lake Like No Other
What sets Lonar apart is its unusual water chemistry. The lake is both saline and alkaline, creating an ecosystem that supports rare microbes capable of surviving in extreme conditions. These organisms often give the lake its striking colour changes.
Wildlife lovers will also find plenty to marvel at. The crater is surrounded by thick forest that shelters peacocks, langurs, and migratory birds like flamingos and herons. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers seeking that perfect frame.
Myths, Temples, and Legends
Lonar is not just about natural science; it’s steeped in mythology and history. Legend says the crater formed when Lord Vishnu destroyed the demon Lonasura, giving the lake its name. Around the rim, you’ll find ancient temples built in Hemadpanti style, some beautifully preserved and others lost to time. The Daitya Sudan temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a must-see for anyone interested in medieval architecture and cultural heritage.
Planning Your Visit
- Best time to go: October to February, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is at its most vibrant.
- How to reach: Lonar is about 4 hours by road from Aurangabad. The nearest railway station is Jalna, while Aurangabad and Nagpur are the closest airports.
- Things to do: Hike down to the lake, walk along the crater rim for panoramic views, visit ancient temples, and enjoy birdwatching with binoculars in hand.
Most travelers heading to Maharashtra make a beeline for Ajanta and Ellora caves, but few venture to Lonar. That’s what makes it special. Standing at the crater’s edge, looking down at its shimmering emerald waters, you realize you’re gazing at something truly unique — a reminder of Earth’s fiery past and its connection to the cosmos.
Lonar Crater Lake isn’t just a destination. It’s an experience that blends science, history, and mythology, leaving every traveler with a story to tell.
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