Which Are the Largest Lakes in India?

India is home to some of the most breathtaking lakes in the world, each offering its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and biodiversity. From the serene waters of Vembanad Lake in Kerala to the shimmering expanse of Pangong Lake in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, these lakes are more than just bodies of water. They serve as vital ecosystems, sources of livelihood, and even spiritual centers. Whether located in the lap of mountains or sprawling across the plains, India’s largest lakes tell stories of history, tradition, and environmental diversity. 

In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating details of the largest lakes in India, their importance to local communities, their role in the environment, and why they continue to captivate travelers and nature lovers. So, get ready to discover the vast waterscapes that are an integral part of India’s natural heritage!

A List of India’s Largest Lakes by Area

Below is a list of India’s largest lakes by surface area.

• Vembanad Lake
• Chilika Lake
• Shivaji Sagar Lake
• Indira Sagar Lake
• Pangong Tso Lake
• Pulicat Lake
• Sardar Sarovar Lake
• Nagarjuna Sagar Lake
• Loktak Lake
• Wular Lake

1. Vembanad Lake

Vembanad Lake is a natural marvel, stretching across three districts of Kerala and covering a massive 2,033 square kilometers. As India’s longest lake and Kerala’s largest, it plays a significant role in the state’s ecosystem and culture. The lake is a unique combination of brackish and freshwater, with different sections offering a distinct aquatic experience. It is surrounded by lush greenery, including the famed Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which makes it a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially in winter when migratory birds visit.

Vembanad is famous for its backwater houseboats, offering tourists a tranquil cruise through its scenic landscapes. The lake also plays host to Kerala’s most thrilling boat race, the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, which draws large crowds each year. Fishermen rely on this lake for their livelihood, and it has long been a vital resource for nearby communities. Apart from its ecological and economic importance, the lake is also a hub for adventure and photography enthusiasts. Its calm waters, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural backdrop make Vembanad a must-visit destination in Kerala, capturing the essence of the state’s natural beauty.

Also Read: Largest Lakes in the United States

2. Chilika Lake

Spanning 1,165 square kilometers, Chilika Lake in Odisha is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest in the world. Fed by 52 streams, the lake is a natural blend of brackish and freshwater, creating an ideal habitat for a wide range of biodiversity. It serves as a crucial fishing resource for 132 nearby communities, supporting thousands of livelihoods. Being the largest wintering site for migratory birds in India, Chilika has gained particular recognition. Flocks of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and rare species, transform the lake into a vibrant spectacle, particularly around Nalaban Island, which is a dedicated bird sanctuary.

Chilika is also a significant nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley Turtles, adding to its ecological value. The lake’s numerous islands, such as Honeymoon Island, Birds’ Island, and Parikud, add to its charm, drawing in nature lovers and tourists alike. Besides its rich biodiversity, Chilika is a serene retreat, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boating, and capturing stunning photographs of the region’s diverse landscape. A visit to this breathtaking lagoon showcases the harmonious balance between nature and community that defines this unique ecosystem.

3. Shivaji Sagar Lake

Shivaji Sagar Lake, also known as Shivsagar, is an artificial freshwater reservoir in Maharashtra, India, created by the impounding of the Koyna River through the Koyna Dam. Spanning 891.7 square kilometers, it is one of the largest artificial lakes in the country. Its impressive depth of 80 meters and length of 50 kilometers make it not just a vital water source but also a scenic destination for visitors. Nestled in the lush surroundings of Guhagar in the Ratnagiri district, Shivaji Sagar Lake is a favorite among nature lovers, offering picturesque landscapes and tranquil views.

The lake plays a crucial role in supporting the region’s agricultural activities, providing irrigation to vast tracts of land. It is also a hub for water sports and boating activities, making it a great picnic spot for tourists. Shivaji Sagar’s proximity to the Western Ghats gives it a rich ecosystem, with the surrounding greenery home to a variety of flora and fauna. For those seeking a serene getaway or a chance to enjoy the outdoors, the lake offers both adventure and relaxation, all while serving as an essential resource for the state of Maharashtra.

4. Indira Sagar Lake

Indira Sagar Lake, located in the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, is an artificial reservoir formed by the Indira Sagar Dam on the Narmada River. Covering an area of 627 square kilometers, the lake plays a critical role in regional development by supporting irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. The dam that created this vast lake is one of the largest in India and serves as a lifeline for agriculture in the area, providing essential water resources for crops. It also generates a significant amount of hydroelectric power, making it a key energy source for the region.

The lake’s surroundings are not only functional but also scenic, attracting visitors for boating and sightseeing. While its primary purpose is useful, Indira Sagar Lake has also become a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy nature. The calm waters, surrounded by green fields and rural landscapes, offer a peaceful environment perfect for relaxation. Additionally, the lake supports local fisheries, contributing to the livelihoods of many communities. Overall, Indira Sagar Lake is a vital water body for the state of Madhya Pradesh, balancing both economic necessity and natural beauty.

5. Pangong Tso Lake

Pangong Lake, situated in the high-altitude region of Ladakh, is one of the most stunning and unique lakes in India. With a surface area of around 700 square kilometers, it stretches across the borders of India and China, with over 60% of the lake lying within Chinese territory. Known for its striking beauty, Pangong is a saline lake that changes colors throughout the day, shifting from shades of blue to green depending on the position of the sun. Despite its saltwater composition, the lake freezes completely during the harsh winters, making it a seasonal attraction, best visited between May and September.

Pangong Lake has become a popular destination for adventure seekers, photographers, and campers, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil environment. The lake’s shores are dotted with campsites, offering visitors an immersive experience in the rugged beauty of Ladakh’s natural terrain. The lake is also a sanctuary for migratory birds, including Brahminy ducks and seagulls, adding to its ecological significance. Its high-altitude location, serene waters, and dramatic scenery make Pangong Lake one of the most extraordinary and must-visit destinations in India’s northern frontiers.

Must Read: Most Beautiful Places in India

6. Pulicat Lake

Pulicat Lake, located on the border of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, is India’s second-largest brackish water lagoon, spanning approximately 450 square kilometers. This scenic lake is an ecological treasure, with its waters supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Pulicat is especially famous for being a haven for migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks, making it a popular destination for birdwatching. The annual Flamingo Festival, held in the region, draws nature enthusiasts and tourists from across the country.

The lake is part of the Pulicat Bird Sanctuary, which plays a crucial role in conserving the wetland ecosystem. The presence of the Sriharikota island, home to the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) launch center, adds a modern technological dimension to this ancient water body. Pulicat is also significant for the local fishing communities, who depend on its brackish waters for their livelihoods. Historically, the lake was an important trading post during the colonial era, with the Dutch East India Company establishing a settlement here in the 17th century. Today, Pulicat Lake remains a critical ecological zone, balancing its role as a natural habitat, a community resource, and a historical landmark.

7. Sardar Sarovar Lake

Sardar Sarovar Lake is an artificial reservoir created by the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River, located in Gujarat. Covering 375 square kilometers, the lake is a vital water resource for the region, providing irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power. The dam, one of the largest in India, is a key part of the Narmada Valley Development Project, aiming to boost agriculture, water supply, and energy generation in the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. The lake supports vast agricultural fields, providing irrigation to millions of hectares of land and providing a lifeline for drinking water supply to drought-prone areas. 

The Sardar Sarovar Dam, which forms the lake, generates a significant amount of hydroelectric power, contributing to the region’s energy needs. Beyond its functional role, the lake has also become a tourist attraction, especially with the nearby Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, drawing thousands of visitors. Ecologically, the lake plays a crucial role in flood control and replenishing groundwater reserves. It has also contributed to the growth of local fisheries, benefiting the livelihoods of nearby communities. Sardar Sarovar Lake represents the confluence of modern engineering and environmental stewardship, supporting both human and ecological needs.

8. Nagarjuna Sagar Lake

Nagarjuna Sagar Lake, formed by the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam on the Krishna River, is one of the largest artificial lakes in India, covering 287 square kilometers. Located in Telangana, the lake is a key water source for irrigation, supporting vast agricultural areas in the region. The dam that created this reservoir is one of the tallest masonry dams in the world and provides crucial hydroelectric power and flood control benefits. The lake is named after Nagarjuna, the revered Buddhist philosopher. The nearby Nagarjunakonda island is a significant archaeological and historical site, with ancient Buddhist relics and stupas dating back to the 2nd century. This adds a cultural and historical dimension to the lake, making it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.

Besides its practical purposes, the lake offers scenic views and opportunities for boating, attracting visitors to its serene waters and surrounding hills. The lake also supports fisheries, contributing to the livelihoods of local communities. Overall, Nagarjuna Sagar Lake is a symbol of both engineering prowess and historical importance, providing vital resources for the region while preserving its ancient heritage.

9. Loktak Lake

Loktak Lake, located in the state of Manipur, is the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India, spanning an area of 285 square kilometers. It is renowned for its floating islands, called “phumdis,” which are masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter that float on the lake’s surface. These unique floating islands make Loktak one of the most unusual and ecologically important lakes in the world. The lake is a critical source of water for irrigation, drinking, and hydropower generation, and it also supports local fisheries, providing livelihoods to nearby communities.

Loktak is home to the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world’s only floating national park, which is the last natural habitat of the endangered Sangai deer, Manipur’s state animal. The lake is a hotspot for biodiversity, with numerous species of birds, fish, and plants thriving in its waters and wetlands. Loktak’s scenic beauty, combined with its ecological and cultural significance, makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists alike. It is also culturally important to the people of Manipur, who have a deep spiritual connection to the lake. Loktak Lake remains an ecological gem, balancing environmental conservation with its role in supporting human communities.

10. Wular Lake

Wular Lake, located in the Jammu and Kashmir region, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, covering an area of 260 square kilometers. Fed by the Jhelum River, Wular plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the region, helping to control floods and maintain the water table. Its expansive surface area and shallow depth make it a significant natural reservoir, supporting local agriculture and fisheries. Wular Lake is an important wetland recognized under the Ramsar Convention for its ecological significance. It provides a habitat for a variety of bird species, both resident and migratory, making it a key site for birdwatching. The lake also supports a rich diversity of fish, which is a major source of livelihood for the local communities. 

Additionally, Wular plays a role in hydropower generation, contributing to the region’s energy supply. Despite its importance, Wular Lake faces environmental challenges, including pollution and siltation, which threaten its delicate ecosystem. Efforts are underway to restore and conserve this vital water body. Wular Lake not only serves as a crucial resource for the region but also stands as a symbol of the natural beauty and ecological richness of Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read: World Heritage Sites in India

Table Showcasing the Largest Lakes in India

Lake	State	Area
Vembanad Lake	Kerala	2033 sq km
Chilika Lake	Odisha	1165 sq km
Shivaji Sagar Lake	Maharashtra	891.7 sq km
Indira Sagar Lake	Madhya Pradesh	700 sq km
Pangong Lake	Ladakh	627 sq km
Pulicat Lake	Andhra Pradesh	450 sq km
Sardar Sarovar Lake	Gujarat	375 sq km
Nagarjuna Sagar Lake	Telangana	287 sq km
Loktak Lake	Manipur	285 sq km
Wular Lake	Jammu and Kashmir	260 sq km

Conclusion

In conclusion, the largest lakes in India, from the vast expanse of Vembanad to the tranquil waters of Wular, offer a diverse array of ecological, cultural, and economic significance. Whether natural or artificial, these lakes play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, providing water resources, and enhancing the beauty of the regions they inhabit. Each lake, with its unique characteristics, contributes to India’s rich environmental heritage, inviting both locals and tourists to appreciate its splendor and importance. As we continue to benefit from these natural wonders, it’s vital to preserve and protect them for future generations.

FAQs

Which Is India’s Smallest Lake?

The smallest lake in India is Sursagar Lake, located in Gujarat. Its surface area is about 0.02 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest water bodies in the country. Despite its small size, Sursagar Lake holds cultural and historical significance and is a notable landmark in the city of Vadodara.

Which Is the Queen of Lakes in India?

Sasthamkotta Lake, often referred to as the Queen of Lakes is situated 29 km from Kollam in Kerala. As the largest freshwater lake in the state, it has long been a popular destination for tourists. The lake’s serene beauty and ecological significance make it a key attraction in Kerala’s rich natural landscape.

Which City Is Called the Land of Lakes in India?

Udaipur, often referred to as the “City of Lakes,” is known for its picturesque beauty and elegant charm. Located in the Aravalli Hills, the city is home to numerous stunning lakes, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking scenic views and a rich cultural experience.

Which Is the Largest Lake in Asia?

The largest lake in Asia is the Caspian Sea, which is also the largest lake in the world. Despite being called a sea, it is technically a lake because it is landlocked. Following the Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal is notable for being the deepest and the largest freshwater lake by volume in the world.