🚌 Travel from Aurangabad
📍 Distance: ~140 km from Aurangabad (2.5-3 hrs)
Book a comfortable AC vehicle with Jaingiri Travels.
Nearby Destinations
Lonar Crater Lake: Maharashtra's Geological Wonder
Lonar Crater Lake near Aurangabad is one of the world's rarest geological formations — a 52,000-year-old meteorite impact crater with ancient temples, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
The Science of Lonar Crater
The Lonar Crater is approximately 1.8 km wide and 150 m deep, formed by a meteorite impact about 52,000 years ago. It is one of only four hyper-velocity impact craters in the world formed in basalt rock. Scientists from NASA and ISRO study this site because its geological characteristics resemble the Martian surface. The lake's pH of approximately 11 makes it one of the most alkaline natural lakes in India.
Ancient Temples Within the Crater
The crater is home to several ancient temples from the 7th-12th centuries CE. The Daitya Sudan Temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu), partially submerged by the rising lake level, is the most photographed. Hindu mythology describes this site as where Lord Vishnu slew the demon Lonasura — and the crater formed from this cosmic battle.
Wildlife and Birdwatching
The Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary surrounding the crater is an Important Bird Area with over 160 recorded bird species. In winter (November-February), flamingos, pelicans, and migratory waterfowl gather at the lake. The crater forest shelters spotted deer, mongooses, and peacocks. The 3.5 km crater rim walk at sunrise is one of Maharashtra's most unique nature experiences.
Timings and Entry
The Lonar Crater sanctuary is open all year, sunrise to sunset. Entry is free. The crater descent path is steep and takes about 20-30 minutes on foot. No swimming is allowed in the lake — it is ecologically protected and highly alkaline.
How to Reach from Aurangabad
Lonar is 140 km east of Aurangabad on NH-361 toward Akola. The drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. The last 30 km has some rough patches — a raised vehicle (Tempo Traveller or SUV) is preferred. There are no regular trains to Lonar. Jaingiri Travels provides comfortable AC vehicles for day trips.