You may have seen many lakes across India, but have you visited a crater lake yet? Stunning enough to take your breath away at first sight and far older than the cities and civilisations that encompass them, these lakes exemplify meteorite activity on Earth. Surrounded by freshwater forests brimming with unique flora and fauna, they provide breathtaking scenery, tranquillity, and a profound connection with nature. Ideal for offbeat explorers, these lakes are genuine natural wonders. Join us as we delve into India’s only three verified crater lakes and discover what makes them such distinctive attractions.
Our story on some of the most beautiful lakes in India can help you plan a trip in the lap of nature.
What are crater lakes?
Crater lakes are natural pools in depressions, craters, or calderas formed by volcanic eruptions or meteorite impacts. These deep depressions fill with groundwater, rain, melting ice, or snow, creating a habitat for endemic and rare organisms, including animals, birds, insects, plants, and trees.
The best time to visit
The crater lakes in India are located in the states of Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The ideal time to visit them is from November to February. This period offers pleasant weather across the three states, ensuring clear skies and stunning views.
Related Stories
Crater lakes in India
Lonar Crater, Buldhana, Maharashtra
The Lonar Crater in Maharashtra is India’s most renowned crater lake, allowing visitors to admire its beauty. Situated in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra, the lake features a combination of saline and alkaline water due to a high concentration of minerals and an absence of outflow. One of the most fascinating aspects of Lonar Lake is its varying colours, which change from green to pink to red due to the diverse range of microbes in the water. For a complete experience, a 6-km trek (medium difficulty) around the crater is essential.
The crater was formed by a meteoritic impact more than 500,000 years ago. Despite the harsh conditions of the lake, anaerobes, cyanobacteria, and phytoplankton can survive within it. However, swimming is strictly prohibited. The rim of Lonar Lake measures approximately 1.8 km in diameter. The lake has been designated as a wildlife sanctuary, owing to the birdwatching opportunities provided by the surrounding forest. In addition to over 160 bird species, visitors can also spot more than 45 species of reptiles and 12 species of mammals in the area surrounding Lonar Lake.
Read our story on some of the most beautiful places to visit in Maharashtra if you plan a state trip.
Things to do in the area: Discover the nearby temples, enjoy birdwatching in the surrounding forest, and take a stroll along the crater edge.
How to reach
By air: Aurangabad Airport is approximately 134 km away.
By train: Jalna Railway Station is approximately 98 km away.
Ramgarh Crater, Baran, Rajasthan
The 3-km-wide Ramgarh Crater in Baran, Rajasthan, is thought to have been formed approximately 150 million years ago when a meteorite measuring 1 km crashed into the Earth. This vast crater, which contains a stunning lake of 1 km in length and 250 m in width, was first identified by the Geological Survey of India in 1869. Surrounded by hills and forests that support a diversity of rare and endangered species, it is also a popular destination for birdwatching. Ramgarh Crater was recognised as India’s first National Geo-Heritage Site in 2024 by the Rajasthan Government.
Planning to explore Rajasthan? Our guide to the offbeat places in Rajasthan can help you plan a more immersive experience.
Things to do nearby: Explore forts and temples, including the famed Bhand Deva Temple (a 10th-century Shiva temple) and the Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
How to reach
By air: Jaipur International Airport is approximately 276 km away.
By train: Kota Railway Station is approximately 72 km away.
Related Stories
Dhala Crater, Madhya Pradesh
Considered the largest crater in Asia and the second largest in the world, the Dhala Crater in Madhya Pradesh measures approximately 11 km in diameter. Situated in Dhala, Shivpuri district, it is one of the oldest impact structures on Earth and features a small lake. It was likely formed by a Ureilite meteorite, roughly 1 km in diameter, around 2,500 years ago.
Check out our travel guide to Gwalior for a smooth journey.
Things to do nearby: Walk around the rim of the crater, capture images, and explore nearby villages for a well-rounded experience.
How to reach
By air: Gwalior Airport is approximately 123 km away.
By train: Gwalior Junction Railway Station is approximately 122 km away.
Shop the best travel experiences here
Tips to remember while visiting crater lakes in India
- Be prepared for short walks or treks to the lake, so wear comfy shoes and apparel.
- Consider visiting during sunset or sunrise for picturesque views.
- Consider spending a day at Lonar Lake, as there is much to see and do in the vicinity.
- Be aware that the water in these crater lakes is not fit for consumption.
- Avoid getting too close to the lake edges, especially at Lonar Lake, where jagged terrain can trip you.
- Swimming in India’s crater lakes is prohibited due to ecological concerns and the water’s high alkaline or saline content.
(Feature image credit: Banco de Imágenes Geológicas/Flickr)
Related | 12 Of The Highest Lakes In India To Visit For A Thrilling Adventure
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
We may earn an affiliate commission when you shop through links on our site.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
No, swimming in the crater lakes in India is not allowed.
Yes, there is. Yaye Tso is a volcano lake in Ladkah, nearly 255 km away from Leh.
Crater lakes are an important source of water for local wildlife, contribute to the local hydrological cycle, help in the development of endemic species due to their isolated locations and nutrient-rich water, and include climate in surrounding areas.
Apart from taking relaxing walks along the edge of the lake, taking stunning photographs and enjoying impromptu picnics are some of the best activities to do near the crater lakes in India. You can also plan to explore the nearby attractions.
Yes, the crater lakes in India are great for photography.
Yes, you can. In fact, to reach Lonar Lake, you have to embark on a short trek.
Yes, the Lonar Lake is considered sacred by the locals.
Conservational efforts are underway to preserve the crater lakes in India. For instance, the Maharashtra government is trying to secure a UNESCO tag for Lonar Lake.
Written By
Esha Dasgupta
Senior Digital Writer - Growth, TravelEsha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked ..Read More
