Lonar Crater Lake

Imagine a huge celestial body weighing over a million tonne hurtling at unimaginable high speed through the atmosphere and hitting the earth's surface! That is what happened at this site in the Pleistocene geological epoch sometime 500,000 years ago. A high velocity fireball struck Lonar and its impact created a large crater that, over time, has transformed into a soda lake surrounded by slopes of an oval forest-covered hill. The lake's periphery is marked by ancient Hindu temples, most of which are today in ruins. What’s even more bizarre is that this unique confluence of astronomical, natural and historical heritage is scantily visited by tourists. So unless the venue is hosting a local festival, you are in for a near solitary hike through the jungle, home to various birds and wildlife such as deer and monitor lizards.

This is the world's only hyper-velocity meteoric crater in basaltic rock and the lake's water is seven times saltier than sea water. The rim of the crater measures about 2 km and you walk or drive around it for views of this astronomical wonder along with Little Lonar, a smaller lake on the outer periphery, also known as Ambar Lake. For a meaningful exploration, seek a guide to do this and the 10th century Daitya Sudan temple, situated in the nearby town of Lonar. This temple has artistry and carvings resembling those of Khajuraho temples in Madhya Pradesh. Lonar is about 160 km east from Aurangabad. Explore this gem before it gets mainstreamed and crowded.

Tip: If you seek directions from locals, ask for Lonar Sarovar.