The Top 10 Largest Lakes In India: A Spectacular Display Of Natural Beauty

India is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders, and its lakes are no exception. From the serene and tranquil to the vast and majestic, our Top 10 largest lakes in India are a testament to the country’s diverse geography and rich biodiversity. So, let’s begin.

Exploring The Top 10 Largest Lakes In India

Top 10 Largest Lakes In India

Chilika Lake

Chilka Lake in Odisha, Asia’s largest internal saltwater pond, is adorned with a few small islands, including the enchanting Honeymoon Island and Breakfast Island.

This lake, shaped like a pear, is separated from the Bay of Bengal and hosts the thriving Chilka Lake Sanctuary, which supports a diverse ecosystem with a wide range of flora, fauna, and aquatic life in its brackish waters.

The area is also renowned for its abundant birdlife, with both native and migratory species making it a significant winter stopover location in India. Additionally, there are fisheries and salt pans situated along the lake’s shores.

• How to reach Chilika Lake? The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar International Airport, which is well connected to major cities in India. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach Chilika Lake. The nearest railway station is located in Balugaon, which is approximately 35 kilometers from the lake.
• What is Chilika Lake famous for? Chilika Lake is famous for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and its importance as a bird sanctuary.
• Places nearby Chilika Lake to visit: Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Dhauli Giri, Odisha State Museum, Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens, and the Rajarani Temple.
• Best time to visit Chilika Lake: The best time to visit Chilika Lake is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and the migratory birds are in full force.

Vembanad Lake

Vembanad Lake in Kerala, covering an area of approximately 2,033 square kilometers is one of the largest lakes in India. Its captivating shades of sapphire and emerald offer a mesmerizing sight.

Spanning 96 kilometers in length and 14 kilometers in width, it is the longest lake in India and serves as Kerala’s largest water reservoir. Vembanad Lake is the heart of the Kerala backwaters, attracting visitors worldwide for its scenic beauty and boat rides.

During the festive occasions of Onam and the snake boat race, the serene backwaters of Kumarakom transform into a vibrant celebration. Thousands gather to witness the thrilling Chundan Vallam race, infusing energy into the tranquil backwaters.

• How to reach Vembanad Lake? Vembanad Lake is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 85 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the lake. The nearest railway station is in Kottayam, approximately 16 kilometers from the lake.
• What is Vembanad Lake famous for? Vembanad Lake is famous for its scenic beauty, backwater cruises, and traditional houseboats, known as kettuvallams.
• Places nearby Vembanad Lake to visit: Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Jewish Synagogue, Marine Drive, and Hill Palace Museum
• Best time to visit Vembanad Lake: The best time to visit Vembanad Lake is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Pangong Tso

Pangong Lake in Leh Ladakh is a famous high altitude lake known for its scenic beauty. Its name, “Pangong Tso,” means “high grassland lake” in Tibetan.

The lake’s captivating beauty and ever-changing colors, ranging from blue to green and red, make it a mesmerizing destination. Pangong Lake is a must-visit when exploring Ladakh, offering serene and picturesque landscapes against the backdrop of tranquil surroundings.

Situated on the Indo-Tibetan border, Pangong Lake is one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes, located at an altitude of 4,350 meters above sea level.

Covering an area of approximately 160 square kilometers, only one-third of the lake falls within Indian territory, making it an intriguing border attraction.

• How to reach Pangong Tso? The nearest airport to Pangong Tso is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, about 160 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the lake. The nearest major town is Leh, approximately 140 kilometers from the lake.
• What is Pangong Tso famous for? Pangong Tso is famous for its breathtaking beauty and stunning landscapes, with crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
• Places nearby Pangong Tso to visit: Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Shey Palace, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, and Lamayuru Monastery.
• Best time to visit Pangong Tso: The best time to visit Pangong Tso is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the lake is accessible.

Loktak Lake

Loktak Lake in Manipur, India, is the largest freshwater lake in the northeastern state, covering an area of approximately 300 square kilometers.

It is renowned for being the only floating lake in the world, with a distinctive ecosystem of floating phumdis—vegetation, soil, and organic matter—resting on its surface.

The lake is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer, locally known as the Sangai, which is the state animal.

It also supports a variety of bird species, such as the Asian openbill stork, spot-billed pelican, and the rare Baer’s pochard.

Visitors to Loktak Lake can partake in activities like boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The lake is home to fishing communities who reside on the floating phumdis and depend on the lake for their livelihoods.

• How to reach Loktak Lake? The nearest airport is Imphal International Airport, which is approximately 54 kilometers from the lake. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Loktak Lake. The nearest railway station is located in Dimapur, Nagaland, which is approximately 215 kilometers from the lake.
• What is Loktak Lake famous for? Loktak Lake is famous for its unique floating phumdis, which are masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter that float on the surface of the lake. The lake is also home to the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer, or Sangai, which is found only in Manipur.
• Places nearby Loktak Lake to visit: Loktak Lake, Kangla Fort, Manipur State Museum, Keibul Lamjao National Park, Shri Govindajee Temple, Khonghampat Orchidarium, INA Memorial Complex, and the serene Sendra Island.
• Best time to visit Loktak Lake: The best time to visit Loktak Lake is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

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Nagarjuna Sagar

Nagarjuna Sagar is a large reservoir on the Krishna River, located on the Telangana-Andhra Pradesh border. Created in 1967 by the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, one of the world’s largest masonry dams, it is a popular tourist spot known for its natural beauty and historical significance.

Surrounded by attractions like the Buddhist site of Nagarjuna Konda and the Ethipothala waterfalls, Nagarjuna Sagar draws visitors from across the country.

Besides its tourist appeal, the reservoir serves as a vital source of irrigation and hydropower generation, contributing to regional agricultural and industrial development.

Nagarjuna Sagar is a captivating destination that combines stunning landscapes with cultural experiences. Its significance as a water and power source, coupled with its scenic surroundings, makes it a must-visit for travelers in the area.

• How to reach Nagarjuna Sagar? The nearest airport is the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, which is approximately 165 kilometers from Nagarjuna Sagar. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nagarjuna Sagar. The nearest railway station is located in Macherla, which is approximately 24 kilometers from the destination.
• What is Nagarjuna Sagar famous for? Nagarjuna Sagar is famous for its dam, which is one of the largest masonry dams in the world, built on the Krishna River. The dam provides irrigation water and hydroelectric power to the region. The place is also famous for the Nagarjuna Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and deer.
• Places nearby Nagarjuna Sagar to visit: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Hussain Sagar Lake, Qutub Shahi Tombs, Chowmahalla Palace, Salar Jung Museum, Birla Mandir, Ramoji Film City, and Nehru Zoological Park
• Best time to visit Nagarjuna Sagar: The best time to visit Nagarjuna Sagar is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the dam and wildlife sanctuary are open for visitors.

Wular Lake

Wular Lake, located in the Bandipora district of Srinagar, is India’s largest freshwater lake, spanning 200 square kilometers. Its size fluctuates throughout the year, making it a unique and captivating destination. It is the largest freshwater lake in india.

The lake is popular for boating, water sports, and water skiing, offering thrilling experiences to visitors. It is also renowned for its stunning sunsets, attracting both locals and tourists.

As one of India’s recognized wetlands, Wular Lake is replenished by the waters of the Jhelum River. While appearing calm, the lake can experience strong winds and currents.

The picturesque area is adorned with a small island named ‘Zaina Lank,’ adding to its scenic charm.

• How to reach Wular Lake? It is approximately 60 kilometers from Srinagar. The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The nearest railway station is located in Jammu, which is approximately 300 kilometers from the lake.
• What is Wular Lake famous for? Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India and is famous for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. The lake is home to a wide variety of fish species, including carp, trout, and mahseer, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
• Places nearby Wular Lake to visit: Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Pari Mahal, Hazratbal Shrine, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens, Chashme Shahi, and Wular Lake
• Best time to visit Wular Lake: The best time to visit Wular Lake is from May to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the lake is open for fishing and other activities.

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Pulicat Lake

Pulicat Lake, located on the Coromandal Coast in South India, is the country’s second-largest brackish water lagoon. With an area of around 450 square kilometers during high tide and 250 square kilometers during low tide, it is one of the largest lakes in India.

It offers a wonderful weekend getaway option from nearby Chennai. Besides its stunning beauty, Pulicat Lake is known for its rich wildlife, including a bird sanctuary.

It houses various fish and reptile species, as well as a diverse array of birds such as kingfishers, flamingos, storks, ducks, herons, cranes, and pelicans.

While boating is prohibited, local fishermen often offer trips to explore nearby islands and the meeting point of the lake and ocean waters.

• How to reach Pulicat Lake? The nearest airport to Pulicat Lake is Chennai International Airport, well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. The nearest railway station is Sulurpet, approximately 15 kilometers away.
• What is Pulicat Lake famous for? Pulicat Lake is the second-largest brackish water lake in India and is famous for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. The lake is a habitat for several species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
• Places nearby Pulicat Lake to visit: Pulicat include Pulicat Lake, Dutch Fort, Sriharikota Island, Pulicat Bird Sanctuary, Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, and Satish Dhawan Space Centre
• Best time to visit Pulicat Lake: The best time to visit Pulicat Lake is from October to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the lake is open for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Shivaji Sagar Lake

Shivaji Sagar Lake is a significant reservoir in Maharashtra, India, created by the Koyna Dam on the Koyna River. Named after the Maratha king, Shivaji, the lake spans around 89 square kilometers and has a capacity of 1,960 million cubic meters.

Tourists are drawn to Shivaji Sagar Lake for its picturesque views of surrounding mountains and forests. Nearby, the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary spreads across approximately 425 square kilometers, housing diverse flora and fauna.

Visitors can engage in activities like trekking, boating, and exploring nature.

• How to reach Shivaji Sagar Lake? The nearest airport to Shivaji Sagar Lake is in Pune, about 100 kilometers away. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach the lake. The nearest railway station is in Satara, approximately 35 kilometers from the lake.
• What is Shivaji Sagar Lake famous for? Shivaji Sagar Lake is a man-made lake created by the Koyna Dam and is famous for its scenic beauty and as a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra.
• Places nearby Shivaji Sagar Lake to visit: Aga Khan Palace, Shaniwar Wada, Sinhagad Fort, Dagadusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Saras Baug, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Parvati Hill, and Osho Ashram.
• Best time to visit Shivaji Sagar Lake: The best time to visit Shivaji Sagar Lake is from October to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant.

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Indira Sagar Lake

Indira Sagar Lake, situated on the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh, India, is one of Asia’s largest man-made lakes. It spans approximately 940 square kilometers and has a capacity of 12.22 billion cubic meters of water.

The lake is a popular tourist spot, offering scenic views of hills and forests. Visitors can engage in activities like boating and fishing.

Nearby wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Satpura Tiger Reserve and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary, provide opportunities to observe animals like tigers, leopards, and Indian bison.

• How to reach Indira Sagar Lake? The nearest major railway station is Khandwa Junction, which is about 70km away. From the station private buses and vehicles can be used to reach the Mundi where lake is located.
• What is Indira Sagar Lake for? Upper Lake, Lower Lake, Taj-ul-Masajid, Bhimbetka Caves, Van Vihar National Park, Sanchi Stupa, Gohar Mahal, Bharat Bhavan, and Shaukat Mahal
• Places nearby Indira Sagar Lake to visit: Indira Sagar Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in Asia and is famous for its scenic beauty and as a popular tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh.
• Best time to visit Indira Sagar Lake: The ideal time to visit this attraction is during the monsoon season when the surrounding scenery is enhanced with lush greenery, making it even more beautiful. Since the dam is the main feature of the site, it adds to the overall experience of visitors.

Dal Lake

The Dal Lake, known as the Jewel of Srinagar, is an iconic destination in Jammu & Kashmir. Spanning 15 kilometers, it is the second-largest lake in the region and one of the largest freshwater lake in india.

With its calm waters reflecting snow-capped peaks, the picturesque lake is a sight to behold. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant shikaras and traditional houseboats, creating a charming atmosphere.

The lake offers unique experiences like the floating market, where vendors in shikaras showcase handicrafts, saffron, and delicious treats. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a popular spot for ice skating.

• How to reach Dal Lake? The closest airport to Dal Lake is Srinagar International Airport, located about 24 kilometers away. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach the lake. The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi railway station, approximately 290 kilometers from the lake.
• What is Dal Lake famous for? Dal Lake is famous for its stunning natural beauty and is often referred to as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir”. The lake is also known for its houseboats, which are a popular tourist attraction.
• Places nearby Dal Lake to visit: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Pari Mahal, Hazratbal Shrine, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens, Chashme Shahi
• Best time to visit Dal Lake: The best time to visit Dal Lake is from April to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant.

And there you have it, Top 10 largest lakes in India. We hope you find this article helpful. If so, then make sure to like and share this article and don’t forget to comment down your suggestions below.

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