
Lonar Lake (Lonar Crater)
A mysterious saline soda lake formed by a meteorite impact, surrounded by ancient temples and lush forests.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for trekking

Lonar Lake (Lonar Crater)
Best Time
Pleasant weather for trekking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mysterious saline soda lake formed by a meteorite impact, surrounded by ancient temples and lush forests.
"A natural miracle and a neglected spot in Maharashtra, best for a day tour."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trekking down to the lake involves steep stairs and uneven trails. Good footwear is essential.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the trek. Limited facilities are available on the trail.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lonar Crater Lake
Lonar, Buldhana District, Maharashtra
A unique, saline soda lake formed by a meteorite impact over 50,000 years ago. Its dual-layered water system continues to mystify scientists.

Gomukh Temple
Near Lonar Lake
An ancient temple with intricate carvings, dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring a cow-shaped spout from which water flows.

Guided Crater Walk
Lonar Crater
Explore the crater's rim and descend to the lake with a local guide, learning about its geological and historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Crater Trek
Best Time for Clear Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trekking down to the lake involves steep stairs and uneven trails. Good footwear is essential.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the trek. Limited facilities are available on the trail.
🗺️ Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a guide who can share geological and historical insights.
📸 Great for Photography
The unique landscape and ancient temples offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trekking down to the lake involves steep stairs and uneven trails. Good footwear is essential.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the trek. Limited facilities are available on the trail.
🗺️ Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a guide who can share geological and historical insights.
📸 Great for Photography
The unique landscape and ancient temples offer fantastic photo opportunities.
💰 Forest Entry Ticket
A small fee is required per person for the trail to the Devi temple and lake point.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lonar Lake is lauded as a unique geological wonder and a must-visit for its historical temples and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the trekking experience and the scientific intrigue of the crater. However, some find the surrounding areas neglected and dining options limited, suggesting it's best suited for a day trip or a short stay.
"The near perfectly circular Lonar Lake is a saline lake formed out of a crater made by a meteorite impact in the area over 50,000 years ago. The lake is a part of the Lonar wildlife sanctuary established to preserve its unique ecosystem. The lake's water is blue green due to the colour of the algae thriving in its waters.
It is surrounded by ancient temples, including the Gomukh Temple which showcases intricate carvings and sculptures.
The lake is home to both endemic birds like peacock, migratory species like the flamingo as well as reptiles like monitor lizards.
Trekking around the crater is a very popular sport."
Adrian Corera
"The lake is natural miracle but surroundings are not kept well. You will not found any good restaurant around here.
The area of lake and temple is well kept. Washrooms are available inside."
Mehboob Mulla
"LONAR lake..
What to write..
I must say its a Neglected spot in Maharashtra.
Best for one day tour.
There are many hotels and MTDC resort for stay. Its booking is online. Very nice property.
Pl visit LONAR lake, 13 mandir complex, motha maruti temple, Vishnu temple.
Book a forest car at 300 Rs for 4 people and have a round of lake. Its a High Impact createrformedi 5 lakh years ago. Water is having pH of 11.
Very senic, beautiful and leasure spot.
You can use services of Guide Mr Amol and Mr shailesh. Their Utubes videos are Very Good.
Do visit friends."
amol. rajhans.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lonar Lake is accessible by road. It's approximately a 2-hour drive from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) and about an 8-hour drive from Mumbai. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Buldhana district and then to Lonar.
To reach the lake shore, you'll need to descend steep stairs and then hike a few kilometers through the jungle. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
While direct public transport to Lonar might be limited, you can find buses to Buldhana district, from where you can arrange local transport to Lonar town and the lake.
You can drive to the vicinity of Lonar Lake, but the final descent to the lake shore involves a trek. Parking is available near the entry points.
The nearest major city is Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), which is about a 2-hour drive away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee per person for the trail leading to the Devi temple and lake viewpoints.
Lonar Lake is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit between sunrise and sunset for safety and the best experience.
While the lake and temple area are generally well-maintained, it's advisable to respect the natural environment and historical sites. Avoid littering.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site at the entry points for the trails. Advance booking is usually not required for general entry.
There is no specific fee mentioned for general photography, but it's always good to check on-site for any specific regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can trek around the crater, visit ancient temples like Gomukh Temple and Kamalja Devi Temple, and admire the unique geological formation of the lake.
A day trip is usually sufficient to explore the lake and its surrounding temples. If you plan to trek extensively, you might want to allocate more time.
Yes, local guides are available and highly recommended to understand the geological and historical significance of the crater.
The Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various bird species, including peacocks and migratory birds like flamingos, as well as reptiles.
Yes, families can enjoy the natural beauty and historical sites. However, the trek can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited around Lonar Lake. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water, or check for basic eateries in Lonar town.
You can find local Maharashtrian cuisine in Lonar town. Options might be basic, so managing expectations is key.
Basic food stalls might be available near the main entry points, especially during peak tourist times, but they are not guaranteed.
Picnicking is possible, but it's essential to carry all your supplies and ensure you clean up thoroughly afterward to preserve the environment.
The MTDC resort typically has an in-house restaurant offering meals, which is a reliable option for dining.
📸 📸 Photography
The rim of the crater offers panoramic views, the ancient temples provide architectural details, and the lake itself offers unique perspectives, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Absolutely! The unique circular shape of the crater and the surrounding natural beauty make it an excellent location for landscape photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a more dramatic effect.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always wise to be respectful of religious sites and avoid intrusive photography of locals.
Drone usage might be restricted due to environmental regulations or proximity to sensitive areas. It's best to check local rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure & Trekking Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel: Lonar Crater
Exploring the crater involves a trek down steep stairs and a walk through the surrounding jungle. This journey offers a chance to appreciate the natural regeneration of the area post-impact. Local guides can provide fascinating insights into the geological processes and theories surrounding the crater's formation, making the experience both educational and adventurous. The unique ecosystem that has developed within and around the crater is a testament to nature's resilience.
Ancient Temples and Historical Significance
The presence of these historical structures within the natural wonder of the crater creates a captivating juxtaposition. Visitors often find the blend of natural beauty and ancient architecture to be particularly compelling. The temples are not just religious sites but also archaeological treasures, with some being part of the Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary, established to protect the unique ecosystem. Exploring these temples provides a deeper understanding of the cultural landscape that has coexisted with the geological marvel for centuries.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit