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Maharashtra, famous for its varied landscapes, has some of the most beautiful lakes. These lakes in Maharashtra provide a combination of nature, adventure and relaxation. These are well-known water bodies as well as tourist spots. From the tranquil Tadoba Lake to the scenic Lonar Lake, every one of these lakes is special. Whether you want boating, birdwatching, or just a quiet retreat, nature lovers and travellers can’t afford to miss these significant lakes.
10 Prominent Lakes In Maharashtra
Here are some of the best lakes in Maharashtra, offering a peaceful escape to nature, away from the monotony of life:
1. Powai Lake
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most popular lakes in Maharashtra, Powai Lake is a man-made reservoir in Mumbai. Constructed in the late 19th century, this lake is surrounded by greenery and is a serene oasis in the midst of the urban jungle. Powai Lake has various types of flora and fauna such as crocodiles and migratory birds. It is an excellent place for photography, walking, and recreation. Boating facilities are not available, but one can have a view from the lake view promenade. With residential towers and luxury hotels around the lake, it is one of the prominent lakes of Maharashtra.
Location: Mumbai
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day
2. Lonar Lake
Photo: Vivek Ganesan / Wikimedia Commons
Lonar Lake is among the most singular and significant lakes in Maharashtra, created by a meteorite impact some 52,000 years ago. In the Buldhana district, the saline and alkaline lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a notable geological phenomenon. Surrounded by forests and ancient temples, Lonar Lake is rich in biodiversity, attracting researchers and tourists. The lake’s greenish waters change shades depending on the season, making it a fascinating sight. Visitors can explore the trekking trails around the crater and observe migratory birds.
Location: Buldhana district, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day
3. Venna Lake
Photo: Chinmayee Mishra / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most visited places, Venna Lake is a key tourist destination in Mahabaleshwar. This lovely lake was constructed in 1842 by the Satara ruler. It is still a favourite picnic and boating destination. Lying amidst green hills, the lake is ideal for horse riding, paddle boating, and relishing street food from the stalls nearby. The scenic beauty of Venna Lake is augmented during the monsoon, attracting a lot of visitors.
Location: Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free (Boating charges apply)
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
4. Tansa Lake
Photo: MrBinZ / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tansa Lake is among the most significant lakes in Maharashtra, given that it is a significant source of drinking water for Mumbai. The lake is found in Thane district and is enclosed by the Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary, comprising rich flora and fauna. It is a paradise for birdwatchers as migratory birds visit this lake during winters. Boating is not allowed, but there are nature walks and forest excursions nearby. The unspoiled beauty and peaceful environment have made it one of the most serene and well-known lakes of Maharashtra.
Location: Thane district, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day
5. Shivsagar Lake
Photo: Didgeman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Shivsagar Lake is a huge reservoir formed by Koyna Dam. This is among the significant lakes for power generation through hydroelectric means and irrigation. It lies close to Satara and runs 50 km long with beautiful scenery of the nearby mountains. The lake is ideal for kayaking, boating, and fishing, making it an amazing destination for adventure seekers. The close proximity to the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary further enhances its charm, with chances to see deer, leopards, and rare birds. Shivsagar Lake is a favourite of nature lovers and photographers to witness Maharashtra’s unspoiled beauty.
Location: Satara, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free (Boating charges apply)
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
6. Pashan Lake
Photo: Sonali yogiraj / Wikimedia Commons
Pashan Lake in Pune is one of the most popular lakes in Maharashtra, famous for its beauty and bird watching. Constructed during the British period, this man-made lake used to provide water to the city of Pune. The lake features a number of migratory birds such as kingfishers, egrets, and herons. It is a great destination for nature enthusiasts as well as photographers. There’s a well-conserved walking trail that encircles the lake and is a hit among morning as well as evening walkers. Attempts have been made toward preserving and refurbishing Pashan Lake into an ecological hot spot.
Location: Pune, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day
7. Rankala Lake
Photo: Debasmitadeb / Wikimedia Commons
Rankala Lake in Kolhapur is one of the oldest and well-known lakes in Maharashtra, dating back to the 9th century. Framed with rich gardens and temples, it is a significant cultural and recreational area. Tourists can indulge in boating, horse riding, and sumptuous local street food by the lake’s promenade. The serene atmosphere of the lake is an ideal place to relax and capture photographs. Rankala Lake is significant in terms of history, as it was once linked to the Panhala Fort by means of underground tunnels.
Location: Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day
8. Upvan Lake
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated in Thane, Upvan Lake is among the most visited lakes in Maharashtra due to its lovely surroundings and culturally rich events. The lake lies between Yeoor Hills, which provides a scenic background for the visitors. Upvan Lake is a jogging and yoga favourite area with clean walkways and gardens. The Sanskruti Arts Festival, organised every year here, displays local culture and art, and hence the place is bustling with activity. Being one of the significant lakes, Upvan Lake remains a prominent source of attraction for tourists as well as locals.
Location: Thane, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day
9. Masunda Lake (Talao Pali)
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Common
One of the most popular lakes, Masunda Lake or Talao Pali, is a vibrant waterfront spot in Thane. The lake is a boating hub, street food haven, and evening walk destination, and it is a local favourite. Tourists can indulge in paddle boating, water scooters, and cultural shows along the lake. The reflection of city lights on the water is a breathtaking sight at night. One of Maharashtra’s most significant lakes, Masunda Lake continues to be a favourite spot for recreation and social activities.
Location: Thane, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free (Boating charges apply)
Timings: Open all day
10. Tamhini Ghat Lakes
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Tamhini Ghat region, near Pune, is home to several small, scenic lakes. This makes it one of the most beautiful and important lakes for monsoon tourism. These lakes are surrounded by waterfalls, hills, and lush forests, making them perfect for trekking and road trips. During the monsoon, the lakes fill up, creating breathtaking scenery. It is a popular weekend getaway for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. As one of Maharashtra’s most renowned lakes, the Tamhini Ghat lakes are a serene sojourn in nature.
Location: Near Pune, Maharashtra
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: Open all day
These lakes in Maharashtra are a combination of natural scenery, adventure, and cultural importance, perfectly brought together. Right from the distinctive Lonar Lake to the calm Venna Lake in Mahabaleshwar, all these lakes offer different experiences. You may be here for boating, bird sightings, trekking, or to simply relax. These popular lakes have something for all travel enthusiasts. Book your tour today with TripXL and visit these beautiful water bodies.
Cover Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
