The short answer
Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
Good for a quiet nature stop, especially from October to March for migratory birds. It is small, so combine it with the crater visit and go early with binoculars. Check current entry rules and fees locally.
History and context
The story behind Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary
The area was notified as a wildlife sanctuary in the early 2000s, with sources giving differing dates, and the lake itself was added in November 2016. It became an Eco-sensitive Zone in 2017 and a Ramsar wetland in 2020.
Useful facts
Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- Around Lonar crater, Buldhana district
- Area
- About 365 hectares including the lake
- Habitat
- Dry deciduous forest and a saline soda lake
- Wildlife
- About 160 bird species recorded; migratory birds October-March
- Managed by
- Maharashtra Forest Department, Mehkar range
- Time or schedule
- Sunrise to sunset
Why it matters
Why Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary is worth your time
The sanctuary protects the crater's unusual salt lake and the forest around it, and it was extended to include the lake itself in 2016. The lake was designated a Ramsar wetland in 2020, a recognition of its ecological value as a soda lake with specialised algae and microbes.
It also faces real pressure. Sources identify sewage from the town, litter left by pilgrims and visitors, encroachment and fire as threats. Visitors who walk lightly, use a guide and carry out their rubbish help the conservation effort.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Winter waterbirds
From October to March, migratory birds visit the lake and can be seen from the rim.
- 02
Peacocks and forest birds
Peacocks, parakeets and baya weavers are among the commonly reported species.
- 03
A rare soda lake
The lake's salinity and alkalinity support specialised algae and microbes found in few places.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
You enter the sanctuary when you visit the crater, so the best approach is to plan a slow morning of looking rather than walking far. From viewpoints on the rim you can scan the shore and shallows for waterbirds, and in the forest around the rim you may hear and see peacocks, parakeets and other common birds.
The sanctuary covers about 365 hectares, including the 77.69-hectare lake. The forest is southern tropical dry deciduous, with trees such as babul, jamun, arjun and banyan. Sources list about 160 bird species, 12 mammal species and 46 reptile species, though you will see only a fraction in a short visit.
Bring binoculars, keep voices low and stay on marked paths. Do not feed animals, and take your litter with you.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go at dawn with binoculars
- Stay on paths and keep noise low
- Take litter out and do not feed animals
- Check current fees and rules at the gate
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Surrounding Lonar crater, Buldhana district
- Time needed
- 1-2 hours alongside the crater visit
- Best time
- Early morning, October to March
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Rim paths are mostly level, and much of the birdwatching can be done from viewpoints without a descent. Shade is patchy, so carry water and a hat.
- Tickets and access
- The sanctuary is managed by the Maharashtra Forest Department and open from sunrise to sunset. Check current entry rules and any fees at the gate.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Rim paths are mostly level, and much of the birdwatching can be done from viewpoints without a descent. Shade is patchy, so carry water and a hat.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
What is the best season for birds?
Migratory birds are reported from October to March, with winter the peak.
Are there big mammals?
Sources list species such as nilgai, chital and wolf, but sightings on a short visit are unlikely.
When is it open?
From sunrise to sunset; check for any seasonal changes.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.