Lonar Lake, Impact crater lake in Buldhana district, India.
Lonar Lake is a circular crater lake in Buldhana district filled with saline water and ringed by basalt rock formations. The basin sits roughly 480 meters above sea level and spans approximately 1.8 kilometers across.
A British officer first documented the crater lake in 1823, which sparked scientific investigations into its origins. Later research confirmed the lake formed from a meteorite impact roughly 50,000 years ago.
A temple near the shore is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and reflects the spiritual traditions of the region. Visitors can observe how local people connect this sacred place to their religious beliefs.
The lake is reachable via major roads from Aurangabad, with viewing points positioned around the crater rim. Research stations are located on-site where visitors can learn more about the geology and ecosystem.
The water hosts specialized bacterial populations that thrive in its alkaline conditions, creating a distinct ecosystem. This is one of only four known impact craters in basaltic rock worldwide.
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