The Lonar Lake in Maharashtra, was formed about 50,000 years ago when a meteorite hit the surface. The saltwater lake that evolved in the resulting basaltic rock formation has a mean diameter of 1.2 kilometers (3,900 feet) and is about 137 meters (449 feet) below the crater rim. Numerous temples surround the lake, most of which are in ruins, except for a temple of Daityasudan, at the center of the Lonar town, which was built in honor of Vishnu’s victory over the giant Lonasur. The crater itself is a fun trek and the surrounding vegetation is a treat for birdwatchers.

How the Crater Was Formed

The crater is believed to be formed by the sheer impact of the Meteorite weighing 2 million tones, 60 meters wide mass traveling at a speed of 90,000 kilometers per hour. This collision is said to have happened some 52,000 years ago creating a dent on earth at the sight of Lonar and is 1830 meters in diameter and 150 meters deep. To make such a crater 6 mega-tonne bombs are required. The imagination of the explosion is sufficient to chill your spine and crater is venerated as a goddess and is called goddess Lonar Devi.

Lake of Mysteries

There is a mystery associated with the lake flowing inside the crater, nobody can say how it remains full through the year, a stream feeds this crater but up to this date no outlet was found. The other puzzle is that lake has two distinct regions that never mix, an outer neutral and an inner alkaline region. Both support different flora and fauna.

The trek down the lake is really difficult to negotiate and it is always advisable to be cautious before you step because there may be a snake. The uneven surface and the dangerously wet surface of the lake's shore makes the walking quite challenging - a good treat for a trekking expedition.

Lonar crater lake Temple

Best time to visit

The best time to visit this crater is during winters and time management is necessary as you cannot get down the hill in the scorching sun neither you can trek uphill after the dark. Carry your food along loads of water as it is not available there and climbing back is always tougher.

How to Find Your Way

The Aurangabad is the closest city and in fact the base for visiting the wonder of Lonar Craters. The Airport, railway and roadways all have there transport service up to this city after that you can hire a taxi or roadways bus that takes you to this place. It is sure that after you listen and read about its beauty you will carve a fancy to reach there.