The short answer
Lonar Crater Lake: what visitors should know first
Yes, if you like geology, birds or quiet places. Start at a rim viewpoint for the whole bowl, go down to the water only if you can manage steep, uneven steps, and plan for early morning in the cooler months.
History and context
The story behind Lonar Crater Lake
The crater was made by a hypervelocity meteorite impact into the Deccan Traps basalt. Age estimates differ: early luminescence dating suggested about 52,000 years, while a later argon dating gave about 570,000 years, a result some researchers dispute.
It was first noted in 1823 by C.J.E. Alexander. It became a National Geological Monument in 1979, the surrounding area was notified as a wildlife sanctuary, and the lake was designated a Ramsar site in 2020.
Useful facts
Lonar Crater Lake facts at a glance
- Location
- Lonar, Buldhana district, Maharashtra
- Experience type
- Rim viewpoints, optional descent, birdwatching
- Known for
- Meteor-impact crater in basalt with a saline soda lake
- Size
- About 1.83 km across; lake surface about 1.13 km2
- Status
- National Geological Monument (1979); Ramsar wetland (2020)
- Time or schedule
- Sanctuary open sunrise to sunset
Why it matters
Why Lonar Crater Lake is worth your time
Lonar is the only known impact crater of this kind formed entirely in basalt, which makes it scientifically unusual. Researchers have compared its rocks and soil with those of Mars and the Moon. The crater came to wider attention in 1823, when a British officer, C.J.E. Alexander, described it, and it was recognised as a National Geological Monument in 1979.
It is also a living sacred landscape. Local tradition ties the name to the demon Lonasura and to Vishnu, and temples and shrines surround the lake. The lake was declared a Ramsar wetland in 2020, but it faces pressure from sewage, litter and construction. Visiting lightly, with a local guide, helps keep it intact.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The whole bowl from the rim
A single viewpoint shows the circle of the crater, the lake and the ring of temples; it is the best use of fifteen minutes.
- 02
The descent
A stepped path down to the water passes basalt outcrops and gives close views of the shrines at Gomukh and Kamalja Devi.
- 03
Winter birds
From October to March migratory waterbirds visit the lake, and peacocks are common in the surrounding forest.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Begin at a viewpoint on the rim to take in the crater as a whole: a bowl about 1.83 km across, with the green or brownish lake at the bottom and temples dotted around its edge. The rim rises only about 20 m above the surrounding plain, so the first sight is quieter than people expect, and the scale only becomes clear once you stand at the edge.
If you are steady on stairs, hire a local guide and walk down in the early morning, before the heat builds. The path passes scrub and basalt outcrops, and leads to the shrines at Gomukh and the temple of Kamalja Devi near the water. Carry water, wear shoes with grip, and leave plenty of time to climb back out, which is the harder half.
Between October and March, look out across the shore for migratory waterbirds and for peacocks in the forest around the rim. Do not touch the water or take rocks; the lake is a protected sanctuary and its chemistry is fragile.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Arrive early, before the heat, and plan to leave the floor by late morning
- Carry water, a hat and shoes with grip for the stairs
- Hire a local guide for the descent
- Do not take rocks or litter the site
- Check current entry rules at the gate
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Lonar town, Buldhana district, Maharashtra
- Time needed
- 2-3 hours for viewpoints; half a day with the descent
- Best time
- Early morning; November to February is most comfortable
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- The rim viewpoints need little walking, but the path to the water is a steep run of uneven steps with little shade and few places to sit. Many older visitors do better enjoying the view from the rim.
- Tickets and access
- The lake sits inside the Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is open from sunrise to sunset. Check current entry arrangements and any fees at the gate or with the forest department; local guides are available.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Lonar Crater Lake
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The rim viewpoints need little walking, but the path to the water is a steep run of uneven steps with little shade and few places to sit. Many older visitors do better enjoying the view from the rim.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How big is Lonar Lake?
The crater is about 1.83 km across, with a lake surface of about 1.13 km2, and roughly 150 m deep including the rim.
Can I swim in the lake?
No. The water is highly saline and alkaline, and the site is a protected sanctuary. Treat it as a place to look at.
Why does the lake sometimes change colour?
Algae and salt-loving microbes can turn it green, and in 2020 it briefly turned pink. Colours change with water level and season.
Sources and further reading
- Wikipedia: Lonar crater
- Buldhana district: Lonar Crater
- Outlook Traveller: Lonar Crater trek, temples and tales
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
