16 Largest Lakes In India That You Must Explore

Posted on Thursday, October 17th, 2024 by Pawanpreet Kaur Leave a Comment

India, known for its rich freshwater resources, has around 251 recognized lakes that are home to a diverse range of rare aquatic species. The country features a variety of water bodies, including large, medium, & small lakes, ranging from the largest to the longest. Together, these lakes cover nearly 2,000 cubic kilometers, playing critical roles in flood management, irrigation, and supplying drinking water. Each lake, whether it’s the largest freshwater lake or the highest in the nation, contributes to a unique ecosystem that supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. Let’s take a closer look at 16 extraordinary lakes that are truly nature’s gifts to India.

16 Popular Largest Lakes In India

Table Of Content

1. Vembanad Lake	Kerala	2033 km²
2. Chilika Lake	Odisha	1165 km²
3. Shivsagar Lake	Maharashtra	891.8 km²
4. Indira Sagar Lake	Madhya Pradesh	627 km²
5. Pangong Lake	Ladakh	700 km²
6. Pulicat Lake	Andhra Pradesh	375 km²
7. Sardar Sarovar Lake	Gujarat	450 km²
8. Nagarjuna Sagar Lake	Telangana	245 km²
9. Loktak Lake	Manipur	287 km²
10. Wular Lake	Jammu & Kashmir	259 km²
11. Kolleru Lake	Andhra Pradesh	245 km²
12. Sambhar Salt Lake	Rajasthan	230 km²
13. Gobind Sagar Lake	Himachal Pradesh	168 km²
14.Ashtamudi Lake	Kerala	61.4 km²
15. Dhebar Lake	Rajasthan	87 km²
16. Dal Lake	Jammu & Kashmir	22 km²

1. Vembanad Lake – Kerala

Cruising along the serene shores of Vembanad Lake, India’s longest lake, is a delightful experience surrounded by palm trees & rich vegetation. Including a visit to this pretty lake in your Kerala tour package lets you fully immerse yourself in its mesmerizing natural beauty & the enchanting landscapes that encircle it. Covering an area of around 2,033 square kilometers, the tranquil atmosphere & soothing rhythms of Vembanad Lake make it the perfect tropical escape.

Three Facts About Vembanad Lake:

• Vembanad Lake holds the title of both the longest lake in India & the largest lake in Kerala.
• The lake is referred to by different names across various regions, such as “Kochi Lake” in Cochin, “Punnamada Lake” in Kuttanad, & “Vembanadu Lake” in Kottayam.
• Approximately 1.6 million individuals depend on Vembanad Lake for their livelihoods, highlighting its significance to the local community.

Location: Kerala 

Depth: 12 m

2. Chilika Lake – Odisha

Chilika Lake, the second largest lake in India, is located between the Puri & Kalahandi districts in Odisha. Covering an area of around 1,165 square kilometers, this brackish lagoon transforms into a freshwater lake during the monsoon season when river waters replenish it with rainwater. Designated as a Ramsar site, Chilika Lake plays a vital role as a habitat for many endangered species.

Three Facts About Chilika Lake:

• More than 130 villages rely on Chilika Lake for their livelihoods, underscoring its economic importance.
• The lake’s expanse is comparable to that of 52 streams, solidifying its status as one of the largest lakes in India.
• Chilika Lake is recognized as the second-largest coastal lagoon in the world, showcasing its significance on a global scale.

Location: Odisha

Depth: 4 m

3. Shivsagar Lake – Maharashtra

Shivsagar Lake is one of India’s largest lakes, spanning approximately 891.8 square kilometers. Tucked away in a peaceful & picturesque setting, it is enveloped by greenery, making it a perfect haven for backwater enthusiasts. The lake was created by damming the Koyna River for the Koyna Dam, offering a serene escape from the chaos of everyday life.

Three Facts About Shivsagar Lake:

• Shivsagar Lake ranks among the top 10 lakes in India & is a crucial water source for South Maharashtra.
• It plays a significant role in electricity generation, earning it the title “lifeline of Maharashtra.”
• The lake stretches up to 50 kilometers & is easily accessible from Mahabaleshwar, Chiplun, or Satara, making it a convenient destination for visitors.

Location: Satara District, Maharashtra

Depth: 80 m

4. Indira Sagar Lake – Madhya Pradesh 

Indira Sagar Lake is among the largest lakes in India, covering an area of 627 square kilometers. It plays a vital role in supplying drinking water & serves as a reservoir for numerous irrigation projects. Furthermore, the lake supports a rich variety of flora & fauna, making it an important resource for fishing & various commercial activities. Each year, Indira Sagar Lake draws many tourists, captivated by its beauty and significance.

Three Facts About Indira Sagar Lake:

• The lake was formed by damming the Narmada River, which ranks as the fifth-largest river in India.
• As one of the country’s largest freshwater lakes, Indira Sagar Lake is essential for providing water & electricity to the surrounding villages.
• The lake is named in honor of the late Indira Gandhi, who laid the foundation stone for the project, symbolizing her contributions to India’s progress.

Location: Narmada Nagar Village, Punasa Tehsil, Khandwa District, Madhya Pradesh

Depth: 92 m

5. Pangong Lake – Ladakh 

Pangong Lake, nestled between Ladakh & West Tibet, is a beautiful endorheic lake renowned for its captivating blue waters. Surrounded by great mountains, it creates an exhilarating atmosphere that makes it a top tourist destination & a favorite among photographers. Most Leh Ladakh tour packages include a visit to this iconic lake, with summer being the ideal time to explore, as it freezes over in winter.

Three Facts About Pangong Lake:

• Covering an area of 700 square kilometers, Pangong Lake is a natural saline lake.
• The lake is located in a disputed region, with only one-third of its area within Indian borders.
• Pangong Lake is not only one of the highest lakes in India but is also famous for its ability to change colors, transforming from blue to green and even red at times.

Location: Leh District, Ladakh

Depth: 100 m

6. Pulicat Lake – Andhra Pradesh

Pulicat Lake, celebrated for its pretty scenery, is the largest brackish water lake in India. This enchanting lake serves as a haven for birdwatchers, hosting over 400 bird species. Spanning approximately 45 square kilometers, the lake’s size can vary with seasonal rainfall.

Three Facts About Pulicat Lake:

• Pulicat Lake is designated as a Ramsar Site, recognized by UNESCO for its significance as a wetland of international importance.
• Each year, around 500 migratory birds visit Pulicat Lake, highlighting its crucial role in bird conservation.
• As the second-largest brackish water lake in India, Pulicat Lake provides an essential habitat for nesting birds & various fish species.

Location: Coromandel Coast, Andhra Pradesh – Tamil Nadu Border

Depth: 10 m

7. Sardar Sarovar Lake – Gujarat

Located in Gujarat, Sardar Sarovar Lake is vital for the livelihoods of people in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, & parts of Maharashtra. Situated along the Narmada River, it ranks among the largest man-made lakes in India. Today, more than a million people depend on Sardar Sarovar Lake, which significantly boosts trade activities in the area.

Three Facts About Sardar Sarovar Lake:

• Four states—Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, & Gujarat—rely on Sardar Sarovar Lake for electricity and economic support.
• The lake’s construction faced significant opposition, leading to protests and legal battles, including interventions from the Supreme Court.
• This vast lake provides flood protection to approximately 30,000 hectares of land in the surrounding areas.

Location: Kevadia village, Gujarat

Depth: 140 m

8. Nagarjuna Sagar Lake – Telangana

Known as the deepest lake in India, Nagarjuna Sagar Lake is an artificial freshwater body nestled among verdant hills & valleys. Covering an area of about 285 square kilometers, it is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country. The lake plays a crucial role in providing drinking water, irrigation, & electricity generation for two Indian states. If you’re looking for a breathtaking destination, consider booking your India Tour Package to explore this pretty locale.

Three Facts About Nagarjuna Sagar Lake:

• Nagarjuna Sagar Lake has a remarkable water storage capacity of approximately 11.47 billion cubic meters.
• In addition to its national significance, the lake is of religious importance, with historical records indicating that Buddhists visited the area for prayer as early as the 3rd century AD.
• This multi-functional lake is also vital for hydroelectric projects in India, showcasing its diverse range of uses.

Location: Nalgonda district, Telangana

Depth: 124 m 

9. Loktak Lake – Manipur

Loktak Lake is known as the largest freshwater lake in India, famous for its distinctive floating phumdis, which cover approximately 40% of its surface area. Surrounded by natural vegetation, this lake serves as a vital source of drinking water & hydropower generation. Situated at an elevation of 490 meters above sea level, Loktak Lake spans roughly 287 square kilometers. If you’re considering a visit, look into booking one of the many North-East Tour Packages, which will allow you to discover various attractions in the region.

Three Facts About Loktak Lake:

• Loktak Lake is conveniently accessible by road, located just 39 kilometers from the heart of Manipur.
• The lake hosts Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is recognized as the world’s only floating national park.
• It is a biodiversity hotspot, featuring around 425 species of animals, 57 species of waterbirds, and 28 species of migratory waterfowl.

Location: Moirang, Manipur

Depth: 490 m

10. Wular Lake – Jammu & Kashmir

Wular Lake stands as one of India’s largest freshwater lakes, spanning an impressive 259 square kilometers. This natural wonder is a must-see, & you can easily explore it by booking Jammu & Kashmir Tour Packages. Recognized as a Ramsar Site, Wular Lake features the Zainul Lank island, adorned with eucalyptus, mangroves, & coconut groves. The lake’s water is vital for supplying drinking water to the nearby towns.

Three Facts About Wular Lake:

• Wular Lake is a sanctuary for various bird species, including the short-toed eagle, Himalayan golden eagle, and rock dove.
• The construction of Zaina Lank Island began in 1444 during the reign of the Kashmiri Sultan Zain-Ul-Abidin.
• This picturesque lake draws numerous tourists, who flock to enjoy boating on one of the largest freshwater lakes in India.

Location: Bandipora Town, Bandipora District, Jammu & Kashmir

Depth: 14 m

11. Kolleru Lake – Andhra Pradesh

This is in between the Krishna & Godavari districts, Kolleru Lake is located near Eluru in Andhra Pradesh. This beautiful lake offers a peaceful haven, attracting visitors from all over India who come to enjoy its calm & pristine atmosphere. With a sprawling area of 245 square kilometers, Kolleru Lake ranks among the largest lakes in the country.

Three Facts About Kolleru Lake:

• Kolleru Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India & is also recognized as the largest shallow freshwater lake in Asia.
• The lake is home to diverse wildlife & serves as a critical habitat for numerous migratory birds, especially from October through March.
• Historical records suggest that Kolleru Lake was formed during the 15th century under the reign of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.

Location: Krishna and West Godavari District, Madhya Pradesh 

Depth: 2 m

12. Sambhar Salt Lake – Rajasthan

Sambhar Salt Lake, spanning over 230 square kilometers & reaching depths of up to 3 meters, is among the most notable lakes in India. This salt lake, nourished by six rivers—Rupangarh, Khandela, Mantha, Samod, Medtha, & Khari—plays a vital role in Rajasthan’s economy, especially in the salt industry. Don’t miss the chance to explore this unique destination by booking your Rajasthan Tour Packages today!

Three Facts About Sambhar Salt Lake:

• Recognized as the largest saltwater lake in India, Sambhar Salt Lake is designated as a Ramsar Site, reflecting its importance as a wintering ground for thousands of birds.
• It contributes approximately 9% of India’s total salt production, yielding around 196,000 tonnes of pure salt each year.
• Sambhar Lake has historical importance & is referenced in the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata, underscoring its cultural significance in Indian history.

Location: West Jaipur, Rajasthan

Depth: 3 m 

13. Gobind Sagar Lake – Himachal Pradesh

Gobind Sagar Lake, located in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, spans an area of 168 square kilometers & stands out as one of India’s key lakes. Known for its exhilarating water sports such as boating, swimming, rowing, kayaking, & river rafting, Gobind Sagar provides thrilling activities for both seasoned adventurers & beginners alike. You can effortlessly add these exciting experiences to your travel plans by booking Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages, ensuring a seamless journey.

Three Facts About Gobind Sagar Lake:

• Established in 1962, Gobind Sagar Lake was formed after the construction of the Bhakra Dam, which serves as an essential source of hydroelectric power.
• The lake is crucial in supplying electricity to the states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, & Himachal Pradesh.
• Named after Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth guru of Sikhism, Gobind Sagar Lake symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Location: Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh

Depth: 163 m

14. Ashtamudi Lake, Kerala

Ashtamudi Lake, one of India’s largest freshwater lakes, is a pretty paradise situated in the Kollam district of Kerala. This popular destination attracts tourists who typically book flights to the area, followed by scenic boat rides or cruises from Kollam to Alappuzha. Designated as a Ramsar Site of national significance, Ashtamudi Lake is crucial for the livelihoods of many locals.

Three Facts About Ashtamudi Lake:

• Deepest Lake in Kerala: Ashtamudi Lake holds the title of the deepest lake in Kerala & is recognized among the largest lakes in India.
• Year of Recognition: The lake was officially designated as a Ramsar Site on August 19, 2002, highlighting its ecological importance.
• Charming Islands: Ashtamudi Lake is home to two beautiful islands, Munroe Island & Chavara Thekkumbhagom, which enhance its natural beauty and allure.

Location: Kollam district, Kerala

Depth: 6.4 m 

15. Dhebar Lake – Rajasthan

Dhebar Lake, also known as Jaisamand Lake, ranks among the largest man-made lakes in India, constructed by Maharana Jai Singh in 1685. Spanning an impressive area of 61.4 square kilometers, this picturesque lake is teeming with diverse marine life & serves as a habitat for over 220 bird species, including numerous migratory birds. The ideal time to visit Dhebar Lake is between November & March when the weather is pleasant & wildlife is thriving.

Three Facts About Dhebar Lake:

• Islands: The lake is home to three islands, including Baba Ka Magra & Piari, which vary in size from 10 to 40 acres.
• Local Tribes: The tribal community of Rajasthan, particularly the Bhil Manas, can often be seen near the lake, contributing to the area’s rich cultural heritage.
• Historical Inauguration: Dhebar Lake was officially inaugurated on June 2, 1961, a day marked by Maharana Jai Singh’s charitable act of distributing gold equivalent to his body weight.

Location: Udaipur District, Rajasthan

Depth: 31 m 

16. Dal Lake – Jammu & Kashmir 

Dal Lake, located at the center of Srinagar, is frequently referred to as the “Gem of Kashmir.” With depths ranging between 5 to 6 meters, this enchanting lake is integral to the tourism & economy of Jammu & Kashmir. Known by multiple names such as “Srinagar’s Gem” & “Lake of Blooms,” Dal Lake is encircled by breathtaking mountains & picturesque houseboats, making it a sought-after spot for visitors. The prime time to explore Dal Lake is from May to November when the climate is especially enjoyable. 

Three Facts About Dal Lake:

• Varied Aquatic Life: Dal Lake hosts an array of fish species, including Brown Trout & Golden Mahseer, making it a prime location for fishing enthusiasts.
• Formation Process: The lake was created from the waters of five distinct lake basins: Nehru Park, Hazratbal, Nagin, Brari, & Nishat, which contribute to its distinctive ecosystem.
• Blooming Lotuses: From June to August, Dal Lake transforms with the blossoming of floating lotuses & flowers, greatly enhancing its natural allure.

Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

Depth: 6 m

Discover the top 16 largest lakes in India, each showcasing the country’s natural splendor. Whether you’re drawn to the largest lake or the longest one, the mesmerizing beauty of these major water bodies will leave you in awe. This list not only emphasizes the picturesque scenery but also highlights the rich biodiversity that thrives in & around these lakes, reminding us of the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which lake holds the title of the largest freshwater lake in India?

A: Vembanad Lake, situated in Kerala, is the largest freshwater lake in India, encompassing approximately 2,033 square kilometers. It also claims the title of the longest lake in the country, stretching about 96.5 km.

Q: What is the largest saltwater lake found in India?

A: The largest saltwater lake in India is Pangong Tso Lake, with a total surface area of 699.3 square kilometers.

Q: How many lakes are recognized in India?

A: India boasts a multitude of beautiful lakes, with around 251 officially acknowledged & named by the government.

Q: Which lake is recognized as the largest brackish water lake in India?

A: Chilika Lake, situated near the Mahanadi River in Odisha, is the largest brackish water lake in India.

Q: What is considered the largest sweetwater lake in India?

A: Wular Lake is known as the largest sweetwater lake in India & ranks among the biggest freshwater lakes located in Jammu & Kashmir.

For more information on how to visit these remarkable lakes in India, feel free to reach out to our travel specialists at 91-869-999-5345. Explore fantastic tour packages at unbeatable prices with Travanya, India’s premier travel agency. We are dedicated to offering our customers top-notch guidance and insights. Additionally, if you’re interested in booking an international tour package, we’re here to help!