Major Lakes in India

India is home to a wide variety of lakes, each with its own distinct ecological, cultural, and historical significance due to the country’s diverse geography and climate. The Himalayan glacial lakes at high altitudes and the desert’s enormous salt lakes provide an insight into India’s biodiversity and natural splendor. These lakes not only add to the scenic beauty of the country but also play crucial roles in irrigation, drinking water supply, and supporting biodiversity. Major lakes in India, are not only significant for their natural beauty but also for their ecological and economic importance. This blog explores some of India’s largest lakes, emphasizing their value and the part they play in both the natural world and human existence.

1. Wular Lake, Jammu & Kashmir

Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, is situated in the picturesque region of Jammu & Kashmir. Formed by tectonic activity, the lake is fed by the Jhelum River and streams Madhumati and Arin, and plays a crucial role in regulating the hydrology of the Kashmir Valley.  The lake’s area varies seasonally, ranging from 30 to 189 square kilometers. It is situated near the town of Bandipora, approximately 60 kilometers from Srinagar.

• Significance: Wular Lake acts as a natural flood reservoir, absorbing excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. It also supports a rich biodiversity, including fish, birds, and aquatic plants, and is vital for the local economy, providing fish, water for irrigation, and a habitat for numerous species.

2. Dal Lake, Jammu & Kashmir

Another iconic lake in Jammu & Kashmir, Dal Lake is often referred to as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir.” Known for its stunning houseboats and floating gardens, Dal Lake is not just a tourist attraction but also a critical source of livelihood for many locals. This urban lake is the second largest in the region and is renowned for its stunning beauty and cultural significance.  Dal Lake covers an area of approximately 18 to 22 square kilometers. It is surrounded by the majestic Pir Panjal mountains, adding to its scenic charm.

Dal Lake is part of a natural wetland that includes floating gardens known as “Rad” in Kashmiri. These gardens bloom with lotus flowers during the summer months. Dal Lake is not just a picturesque spot but a vital part of Srinagar’s heritage and economy. Its preservation is essential for maintaining the ecological balance and supporting the livelihoods of many local residents.

• Significance: Dal Lake is famous for its shikara rides, houseboats, and floating market. It plays a vital role in the region’s tourism industry and also supports agriculture through its floating gardens, where locals grow vegetables on rafts made of aquatic plants.

3. Pangong Tso, Ladakh

Pangong Tso, also known as Pangong Lake, is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Himalayas, spanning eastern Ladakh in India and West Tibet in China.  Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,350 meters (14,270 feet), Pangong Tso is one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world. It stretches about 134 kilometers in length and is around 5 kilometers wide at its broadest point. People admire Pangong Tso for its breathtaking beauty, with crystal-clear blue waters that change colors throughout the day, ranging from shades of blue to green and even red. The surrounding landscape of rugged mountains adds to its picturesque charm.

• Significance: Pangong Tso is a saline water lake, and despite its salt content, it partially freezes in winter. Tourists have increasingly visited the lake, especially after several Indian films featured it. It is also important for its unique ecology, supporting various species of migratory birds.  The lake is endorheic, meaning it does not drain into any sea or ocean. Instead, it has a land-locked basin. Approximately one-third of the lake lies in India, while the remaining two-thirds are in China.

4. Sambhar Lake, Rajasthan

Sambhar Lake, located in Rajasthan, is the largest inland saltwater lake in India. it is a vital salt-producing site and an important ecological zone. It covers an area that fluctuates between 190 to 230 square kilometers depending on the season. It lies about 80 kilometers southwest of Jaipur and 64 kilometers northeast of Ajmer. The lake receives water from six rivers: Mantha, Rupangarh, Khari, Khandela, Medtha, and Samod.

• Significance: Sambhar Lake is crucial for salt production, contributing to about 9% of India’s total salt output. Sambhar Lake is a major source of salt production in India, contributing around 196,000 tonnes of clean salt annually. Workers harvest the salt through evaporation ponds, and Sambhar Salts Ltd., a government-owned company, primarily manages it. It is also a designated Ramsar site, recognizing its importance as a wetland that supports a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks.

5. Chilika Lake, Odisha

Chilika Lake, located on the eastern coast of India, is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest in the world. This brackish water lake is a biodiversity hotspot and a haven for birdwatchers. The lake covers over 1,100 square kilometers and extends across the Puri, Khordha, and Ganjam districts.

• Significance: Chilika Lake is a designated Ramsar site, recognizing its importance as a wetland of international significance. It supports over 160 species of birds, including migratory species that travel from as far as Siberia. The Satapada Dolphin Sanctuary, located on the lake’s banks, is famous for its population of Irrawaddy dolphins. The lake is also a critical resource for local fishermen and plays a significant role in the region’s economy.

6. Loktak Lake, Manipur

Loktak Lake, located in the northeastern state of Manipur, is the largest freshwater lake in the region. Phumdis (floating islands) made of decomposing vegetation and organic matter make it famous. The largest phumdi hosts the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world.

• Significance: Loktak Lake is ecologically and culturally significant, it is the last natural habitat of the endangered Sangai deer. The lake is also a crucial water source for agriculture, fishing, and hydropower generation in the region. The lake plays a crucial role in the local economy, providing water for hydropower generation, irrigation, and drinking purposes. It also supports the livelihood of local fishermen who live in the surrounding areas and on the phumdis.

7. Vembanad Lake, Kerala

Vembanad Lake, stretching across several districts in Kerala, is the longest lake in India and the largest in the state. The lake is fed by ten rivers, including major ones like the Achenkovil, Manimala, Meenachil, Muvattupuzha, Pamba, and Periyar. It is separated from the Arabian Sea by a narrow barrier island. It is an integral part of Kerala’s famous backwaters and plays a central role in the region’s ecosystem and economy.

• Significance: Vembanad Lake is vital for the region’s tourism, providing the setting for houseboat cruises and backwater tours. It also supports extensive rice cultivation, and fishing, and is a lifeline for the local communities who depend on it for their livelihoods. The lake is also home to a variety of bird species and is a designated Ramsar site.

8. Pulicat Lake, Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu

Pulicat Lake, located on the border of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, is the second-largest brackish water lake in India. It is situated along the Coromandel Coast, with the majority of the lake lying in Andhra Pradesh. It is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a narrow strip of land, known as Sriharikota Island.

• Significance: Pulicat Lake is an important bird sanctuary, hosting a large population of flamingos and other migratory birds. The lake’s ecosystem supports diverse marine life, making it a critical site for both ecological and economic activities, including fishing and salt production.

9. Upper Lake, Madhya Pradesh

Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is a large artificial reservoir located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. It was created in the 11th century by King Bhoj and is one of the oldest artificial lakes in India. It is the largest artificial lake in India, created by constructing an earthen dam across the Kolans River.

• Significance: Upper Lake is a vital source of drinking water for the city of Bhopal. It is also a popular spot for recreational activities such as boating and is home to a variety of bird species. The lake plays a key role in maintaining the local microclimate and supporting biodiversity.

10. Naini Lake, Uttarakhand

Naini Lake, located in the hill station of Nainital, Uttarakhand, is a natural freshwater lake that is the centerpiece of the town. Surrounded by mountains, the lake is a popular tourist destination.

• Significance: Tourists visit Naini Lake not only for its attractions but also for its religious significance, as people consider it one of the 64 Shakti Peeths in Hindu mythology. The lake supports the local economy through tourism and provides a picturesque setting for the town of Nainital.

Types of Lakes in India

The different types of lakes in India can be categorized as:

• Freshwater Lakes
• Saltwater Lakes
• Natural Lakes
• Artificial Lakes
• Crater Lakes
• Oxbow Lakes

Freshwater Lakes

• Wular Lake, Jammu and Kashmir: India’s largest freshwater lake, Wular is a haven for migratory birds. Its scenic beauty is unparalleled.
• Dal Lake, Jammu and Kashmir: Known for its houseboats and floating gardens, Dal Lake is a symbol of Kashmir’s charm.
• Vembanad Lake, Kerala: India’s longest lake, Vembanad is a vital part of Kerala’s backwater network, famous for its houseboat cruises.
• Loktak Lake, Manipur: Unique for its floating islands called phumdis, Loktak is a biodiversity hotspot and home to the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer.
• Bhoj Wetland, Madhya Pradesh: A sprawling wetland complex, Bhoj is crucial for the region’s ecology and supports a rich birdlife.

Saline Lakes

• Chilika Lake, Odisha: India’s largest brackish water lake, Chilika is a birdwatcher’s paradise and a Ramsar site.
• Pulicat Lake, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh: The second-largest brackish water lake in India, Pulicat supports a diverse marine ecosystem.
• Lonar Lake, Maharashtra: A unique crater lake formed by a meteorite impact, Lonar is known for its saline water and rich biodiversity.

High-Altitude Lakes

• Pangong Tso, Ladakh: A mesmerizing high-altitude lake, Pangong Tso changes color with the changing light and is a popular tourist destination.
• Tso Moriri, Ladakh: Another pristine high-altitude lake, Tso Moriri offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Suraj Tal, Himachal Pradesh: Located at a high altitude, Suraj Tal is a glacial lake known for its serene beauty.

Conclusion

The lakes of India are more than just beautiful natural landscapes; they are vital ecological zones that support diverse species of flora and fauna, provide livelihoods for millions of people, and hold deep cultural and historical significance. Preserving these lakes is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring that they continue to benefit future generations. From the serene waters of Dal Lake to the bustling activity around Vembanad, India’s lakes are treasures that reflect the country’s rich natural heritage.

Read also

• River Delta Ecosystems
• Major Dams in India
• Coastal Landscapes of Indian States and the Nation
• The Major Seas of the World
• Important facts about India
• Major Marginal Seas of the World’s Oceans
• The Greening of Our Oceans: A Silent Signal of Global Change
• The Origins of Our Oceans
• The Bermuda Triangle Mystery

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Important Facts About the Lakes of India

1. Wular Lake in Jammu and Kashmir is the largest freshwater lake in India.
2. Dal Lake: Known as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir,” Dal Lake is famous for its houseboats and floating gardens.
3. Chilika Lake in Odisha is the largest brackish water lake in India and was designated as the first Indian wetland of international importance in 1981.
4. Sambhar Lake: Located in Rajasthan, Sambhar Lake is the largest inland saltwater lake in India and a crucial site for salt production. It also supports a variety of bird species, including flamingos.
5. Pangong Tso: A high-altitude saline lake located in Ladakh, Pangong Tso extends between India and China. It is known for its changing colors and stunning landscapes.
6. Loktak Lake: In Manipur, Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India and is known for its floating islands called Phumdis. It is also home to the only floating national park in the world, Keibul Lamjao.
7. Vembanad Lake: The longest lake in India, Vembanad Lake in Kerala is central to the state’s backwater tourism and supports agriculture and fishing.
8. Lonar Lake: Maharashtra’s Lonar Lake is a unique saline soda lake created by a meteorite impact, making it one of the few known impact craters in basaltic rock globally.
9. Pulicat Lake: Located on the border of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Pulicat Lake is the second-largest brackish water lake in India and an important bird sanctuary.
10. Upper Lake: Also known as Bhojtal, Upper Lake in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, is one of the oldest artificial lakes in India, created in the 11th century. It is vital for the city’s water supply.
11. Ramsar Sites: Several Indian lakes, including Chilika, Sambhar, Loktak, and Vembanad, are designated Ramsar sites, recognizing their international importance as wetlands supporting biodiversity.

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