Lonar Crater

Lonar Crater

When it comes to meteorite craters, one cannot overlook India’s Lonar Crater, located in Lonar, Maharashtra. It was discovered in 1823. According to scientific research, approximately 52,000 years ago, a comet or meteor skimmed past Lonar, India, creating this massive crater.

The Lonar Crater rises 20 meters above the ground, with a diameter of 1,830 meters and a depth of 150 meters. Formed 52,000 years ago, it was initially believed to have been created by a volcanic eruption, but later studies revealed it was formed by a meteorite impact. The crater houses a saltwater lake with extremely high salinity, commonly referred to as the “Lonar Volcanic Lake.” Despite the name, it was not formed by a volcano. This lake has a diameter of 1,200 meters and retains much of its original shape and appearance, possibly due to the hardness of the volcanic basalt in the region, which resists deformation. The lake has become a haven for diverse flora and fauna. A variety of bird species inhabit the area, as do monitor lizards. In addition, it is home to thousands of peafowls and Indian gazelles.

Lonar Crater

Reason to visit: India’s most famous meteorite crater

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: India[India]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Maharashtra [Maharashtra]

City where the attraction is located: Lonar [Lonar]