Encyclopaedia on India

Nestled in the enchanting Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, Renuka Lake stands as the largest natural lake in the state. At an altitude of 672 meters above mean sea level, its tranquil waters stretch across a circumference of 3,214 meters, cradled by thickly wooded slopes and emerald forests teeming with life. Renuka Lake is a haven not only for nature lovers and spiritual seekers but also for curious travelers looking to immerse themselves in local folklore, serene landscapes, and biodiversity. Geographical Marvel Renuka Lake is situated approximately 123 km from Parwanoo, 60 km from Paonta Sahib, and 37 km from Nahan. This serene stretch of water is fed by underground springs, and the surrounding hills support an abundant variety of flora and fauna. The lake lies within a picturesque valley and is a part of Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary, making it an ecological gem for Himachal Pradesh. The pristine environment and the peaceful ambiance offer the perfect retreat from the chaos of...

Porur Lake, locally known as Retteri or Porur Aeri , is a prominent water body located in the southern fringes of Chennai city, in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Nestled in the suburb of Porur in Tiruvallur district’s Poonamallee taluk, the lake not only adds charm to the landscape along the Chennai Bypass but also plays a critical role in supporting the city’s water needs and ecological balance. Geographical Identity Porur Lake is located at the global coordinates of 13.034223°N latitude and 80.15065°E longitude. With a spread of 250 acres, it holds an impressive water capacity of 46 million cubic feet (mcft). Its strategic position near the bustling Mount Poonamallee Road makes it both a scenic and functional landmark. Daily operations at Porur Lake involve four filter stations actively pumping water to the K.K. Nagar double tank distribution point, a vital system in Chennai’s water infrastructure. Vital Functions Porur Lake serves two major purposes: Drinking W...

Nestled in the serene landscape of Khammam district in Telangana, Palair Lake stands as a testament to human ingenuity and nature’s charm. This man-made reservoir, located in Palair village of Kusumanchi Mandal, is not only a vital water resource but also a thriving hub for tourism, ecology, and cultural festivities. Origins and Historical Significance Palair Lake was constructed as a balancing reservoir for the Lal Bahadur Canal, part of the ambitious Nagarjuna Sagar Water Project. Spanning an impressive 1,748 hectares, the lake has a storage capacity of 2.5 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of water. Historically, its waters have been used for irrigation, supporting agriculture in the surrounding regions since medieval times. The lake’s location in Khammam district adds to its historical depth. Khammam city, the district headquarters, derives its name from the ancient hill Stambhadri, which has evolved through various names like Kambhadri, Kambham mettu, and Khammam mettu. Th...

Nestled in the serene folds of the Himalayas, Manasbal Lake shines like a jewel in the crown of Jammu and Kashmir’s natural beauty. Located in Ganderbal District, this majestic water body has earned the title of the deepest lake in India and serves as an ecological, historical, and cultural landmark that continues to captivate tourists, scholars, and nature lovers. Location and Surroundings Manasbal Lake lies at an elevation of approximately 1,585 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level, cradled between the Pir Panjal Range and the Greater Himalayas. Its geographical setting not only provides breathtaking views but also places it within the third series of Himalayan high-altitude lakes alongside Dal and Anchar Lakes. It is bordered by the Baladar Mountains in the east, the elevated Karewa Plateau in the north, and the Ahtung hills to the south, the latter known for limestone extraction. Surrounding the lake are three picturesque villages: Jarokbal, Kondabal (also called Kiln place), a...

Rajasthan, the north-western crown of India, is often celebrated for its golden sands, majestic forts, and regal palaces. Yet, hidden amidst its arid landscapes are serene water bodies that add a unique charm to the state its lakes. These lakes, both natural and man-made, not only serve ecological and utilitarian purposes but also enhance the aesthetic and cultural appeal of Rajasthan. From shimmering salt pans to tranquil mountain waters, The Lakes of Rajasthan are as diverse as they are beautiful. Sambhar Salt Lake: India’s Largest Inland Salt Lake Located about 96 km southwest of Jaipur and 64 km northeast of Ajmer, Sambhar Salt Lake is a geographical marvel. Spanning a catchment area of approximately 5,700 square kilometers, this bowl-shaped saline wetland is the largest inland Salt Lake in India. The lake plays a crucial role in salt production, contributing significantly to the country’s salt output. Sambhar Lake is also a haven for migratory birds, including flamingos, pe...