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Located just outside Mumbai, Panvel is one of the fastest-developing cities in Maharashtra and is also the abode of some of the most beautiful and tranquil lakes in the state. From natural to man-made water bodies, Lakes in Panvel are an ideal escape for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts. From the birdwatching paradise to the serene waters, each lake has its own special appeal. These lakes are often surrounded by verdant mountains, rolling hills, and centuries-old temples, making them the perfect place to relax and explore.
10 Best Lakes In And Around Panvel
Following are the most interesting lakes in Panvel, along with the best times to visit them, things to do nearby, and important information.
1. Gadeshwar Lake
Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons
Gadeshwar Lake, an artificial reservoir created by the construction of the Gadeshwar Dam, is a serene escape near Panvel. It is surrounded by lush green hills like Chanderi and Mhaismal that provide a picturesque natural backdrop for campers, trekkers, and photographers. Fed by tiny streams, the lake is full after the monsoon and is perfect for day hikes, meditation and weekend escapes. Early mornings offer stunning misty views and golden reflections of the sunset on its surface in the evenings. Swimming is not advised as some areas are deep, but visitors sometimes spread out for quiet picnics on its banks.
Location: Near Gadeshwar Dam
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Nearby Attractions: Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Karnala Fort, Matheran Hill Station
2. Karnala Lake, Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Aniket / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Karnala Lake is a small waterbody within Karnala Bird Sanctuary, which is popular among birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Surrounded by dense forests, the lake is a peaceful pit stop for trekkers on their way to the Karnala Fort. The lake is full during the monsoons, and it mirrors the thick green cover surrounding it. It is home to migratory birds, and you can spot the Malabar whistling thrush, hornbills and paradise flycatchers. The lake is frequented by animals in the sanctuary, from wild boars to monkeys who come to quench their thirst from its banks.
Location: Inside Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Best Time To Visit: June to February
Nearby Attractions: Karnala Fort, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Chikhale Lake
Photo: Pralhad Bandivadekar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another less-known beautiful lake near Chikhale village and railway station is the Chikhale Lake. Surrounded by agricultural fields, it is an important water source for farmers. Local fishermen flock to its placid shores for occasional swimming. Chikhale has a raw, unspoilt feel compared to more touristy lakes, with village houses lining its perimeter. During the monsoons, the lake spills over into smaller streams that form small waterfalls in the vicinity. This route is the beginning point of treks to Matheran’s lower trails for many hikers. Photographers can maize it through the early morning mist when a dreamy fog over the lake creates moody lighting.
Location: Near Chikhale Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: July to February
Nearby Attractions: Matheran foothills, Irshalgad Fort
4. Kalote Lake, Kalote Waterfalls
Photo: Jeffrey Workman / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This little-known lake in Khandala has crystal water, and the beautiful Kalote waterfalls flow into it during the monsoons. It is fed by the surrounding hills, has pristine water and is used for eco-tourism activities such as kayaking and paddle boating. It is a popular camping destination, with lakeside tents allowing guests to connect directly with nature. The small village Kalote, near Panvel and Khopoli, is another place that is not so touched by tourism because it is surrounded by thick forest, which adds to its beauty.
Location: Near Kalote village on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway
Best Time To Visit: June to September; October to February
Nearby Attractions: Kalote Waterfalls, Kondana Caves, ND Studio
5. Adai Lake
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Find peace and happiness at this freshwater lake in Panvel, located around Adai village. Lined with greenery and dotted with small hillocks, this is popular with the locals, who come here to walk, jog and picnic in the morning. Water levels increase substantially during monsoons and the landscape looks heavenly. The lake is a resting spot for migratory birds, making it a great place for birdwatching. Not overtly commercialised, small food stalls nearby sell snacks and refreshments. The surrounding area is slow to develop but parks and seating areas are being planned for the future.
Location: Near Adai village
Best Time To Visit: Year-round or November to February
Nearby Attractions: Karnala Fort, Panvel Market, Gadeshwar Lake
6. Ballaeshwar Lake
Photo: Vallabhdhootwtn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Ballaeshwar Lake is a little-known lake in Panvel, but a very local waterbody. The lake is rather small compared to other lakes nearby but serves as an important source of water for irrigation and small fishing. Surrounded by typical village houses and farmland, it provides a slice of rural Maharashtra life to its tourists. The lake holds special significance during the time of religious festivals when the villagers offer rituals near the water. Not a typical tourist attraction, it offers a peaceful setting for those who want to experience nature in the absence of crowds.
Location: Near Ballaeshwar village
Best Time To Visit: June to September, November to February
Nearby Attractions: Vadale Lake, local temples, Karnala Bird Sanctuary
7. New Panvel Lake
Photo: Спасимир (Spasimir Pilev) / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The lake, an artificially created water body to improve the surroundings of the New Panvel area, which started developing in the 1990s, has turned into a recreation spot. There are plenty of manicured grounds and paved trails around the lake and it is a popular area for joggers, strollers and families looking to go out for a stroll. The lake is visited by ducks and several smaller birds. In the surrounding environment, a set of parks and places to sit have been established for tourists. In the heart of a busy residential neighbourhood but still peaceful, it’s a welcome break from the city.
Location: In New Panvel, near Sector 6
Best Time To Visit: Evenings throughout the year; best during winter for pleasant weather
Nearby Attractions: Orion Mall, Khandeshwar Temple, Panvel Railway Station
8. Panvel Municipality Lake
Photo: Dharmadhyaksha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located in the heart, Panvel Municipality Lake in Panvel is a centrally maintained water body near recreational and cultural landmarks. Over time, it has emerged as a popular morning and evening walk with paved walkways and benches encircling the lake. Occasional events and festivals are organised by the municipality near the lake. While fishing is prohibited, visitors typically feed the indigenous fish and ducks. Thanks to its location in a busy area, it is a bustling place during the day with people lounging at the water’s edge.
Location: Central Panvel
Best Time To Visit: Early mornings and evenings
Nearby Attractions: Panvel Market, Karnala Fort, Old Panvel temples
9. Vadale Lake
Photo: Vallabhdhootwtn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Vadale Lake, or Vadale Talao, is among the oldest lakes in Panvel, with cultural and historical importance. Temples and traditional homes surround the lake, which is an integral part of local religious practices. Not only is it a pretty waterbody but also a holy place where people perform rituals, especially during festivals. The temple structures in the vicinity are reflected beautifully as the water level rises during monsoons. Small fish swim in the lake, and although fishing is not a commercial enterprise here, villagers do sometimes participate in traditional fishing methods.
Location: Vadale area, near Panvel City
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Hanuman Temple, Panvel ST Stand, local markets
10. Dewale Lake
Photo: Ganesh Dhamodkar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dewale Lake is a short and quiet waterbody located by Dewale village on the outskirts of Panvel. Dewale Lake, unlike many other lakes that evolved as the hub of human recreational activity, is still a pristine beauty with minimum human interference. Nestled between agricultural fields and a small village, providing rustic charm. Villagers often cast nets on its banks for local fishing. In monsoons, the lake is full to the brim, adding to the greenery of the adjoining area. Ideal for those seeking solitude in nature, with no commercial activities around the lake and for those who enjoy rural settings, it provides a peaceful ambience.
Location: Dewale village
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Nearby Attractions: Dewale Temple, Irshalgad Fort, Panvel Hills
Every lake in Panvel offers the ideal combination of natural beauty, adventure, and peace. Be it a quiet getaway, the perfect spot to have a scenic picnic or a location that has a rich biodiversity, you have lakes that suit each kind of traveller. These lakes are a breath of fresh air from the hustle and bustle of city life, no matter what season it is. Plan your visit with TripXL and explore the hidden water treasure of Panvel.
Cover Photo: eberhard grossgasteiger / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
