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Largest Freshwater Lake in India

India is home to many rivers and a complex system of canals. Out of all the lakes present the Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India, showcasing the beauty of nature. On the other hand, Pukode Lake is known for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, making it the smallest lake in the country. These two lakes highlight India’s diverse natural beauty and draw tourists from around the globe. Both lakes offer unique experiences, reflecting the rich heritage of India’s freshwater bodies. If you want to learn more about other freshwater lakes in India, check out the article below for more information.

Which is the largest freshwater lake in India?

Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India, located in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir. Covering about 200 square kilometers, it is also the second-largest freshwater lake in Asia. The lake is approximately 24 kilometers long and 10 kilometers wide, lying beneath the beautiful Harmuk mountain range. Wular Lake is fed mainly by the Jhelum River, which helps keep its waters full. In the middle of the lake is a small island called Zaina Lank, adding to its beauty.

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Wular Lake is ecologically important and was recognized as a Wetland of National Importance in 1986. This status highlights its significance for wildlife, water resources, and local communities. In 1990, it gained international recognition as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. This designation emphasizes the need for conservation efforts to protect its diverse plants and animals. By managing the lake sustainably, we can preserve Wular Lake’s natural beauty and ecological value for future generations.

Other Characteristics of the Largest Freshwater Lake in India

  • Wular Lake, known as Mahapadmasar in ancient times and later as Ullola due to its high waves, stands as a timeless symbol of Kashmir’s natural heritage.
  • Its name, possibly derived from the Kashmiri word ‘wul’ meaning gap or crack, reflects centuries of development and cultural significance.
  • Although the lake is recognized as a Ramsar site, it has faced environmental challenges, such as entry into its surrounding drainage areas.
  • Yet, amid these concerns, Wular Lake remains an important ecosystem, with a rich diversity of fish species that sustains the livelihood of over 8,000 fishermen.
  • Wular Lake embodies both the fragility and resilience of nature, symbolizing the delicate balance between human activity and ecological conservation in the Kashmir Valley.

Top 10 Largest Freshwater Lakes in India

Here’s a list of the 10 largest freshwater lakes in India. These lakes are distributed across various states and union territories in India, with some being renowned for their ecological significance and natural beauty.

  • Wular Lake
  • Loktak Lake
  • Nagarjuna Sagar Lake
  • Sardar Sarovar Lake
  • Govind Sagar Lake
  • Kolleru Lake
  • Indira Sagar Lake
  • Shivaji Sagar Lake
  • Dhebar Lake
  • Kanwar Lake

Significance of Freshwater Lakes 

Freshwater lakes are essential for the survival of many species, including humans. They provide water for drinking, irrigation, agriculture, and industries. These lakes are vital for a large number of people and animals, offering a habitat for countless aquatic plants, fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals, including endangered and migratory species.

Protecting these lakes is crucial since they support not only wildlife but also recreational activities and tourism, thanks to their diverse ecosystems. By conserving these important habitats, we can ensure that both human communities and wildlife thrive. It’s important to take care of freshwater lakes to maintain the balance of nature and support the many lives that depend on them.

List of All Freshwater Lakes in India

Freshwater lakes are incredibly diverse in origin, with various factors influencing their formation and the ecosystems they support. Whether they are fed by streams or rivers, formed by retreating glaciers, or artificially created through human intervention such as damming ancient mines, each type of lake hosts its own unique microclimate shaped by its origin. Here we discuss 10 freshwater Lakes. These rivers have created a number of big freshwater lakes across Indian territory.

Freshwater Lakes in India List
Loktak Lake [North–East India] Pulicat Lake [Andhra Pradesh] Hemkund Lake [Uttarakahnd]
Wular Lake [Jammu and Kashmir] Sambhar Lake [Rajasthan] Kang Sabal Lake [Manipur]
Loktak Lake [Manipur] Chilka Lake [Odisha] Deepor Beel [Assam]
Nagarjuna Sagar Lake [Telangana] Dal Lake [Jammu and Kashmir] Mirik Lake [West Bengal]
Sardar Sarovar Lake [Gujarat] Nakki Lake [Rajasthan] Khajjiiar Lake [Himachal Pradesh]
Govind Sagar Lake [Himachal Pradesh] Upper Lake [Madhya Pradesh] Sanasar Lake [Jammi and Kashmir]
Kolleru Lake [Andhra Pradesh] Lower Lake [Madhya Pradesh] Venna Lake [Maharashtra]
Indira Sagar Lake [Madhya Pradesh] Bhimtal Lake [Uttarakhand] Pangong Tso [Ladakh]
Shivaji Sagar Lake [Maharashtra] Nainital Lake [Uttarakhand] Sukhna Lake [Chandigarh]
Dhebar Lake [Rajasthan] Sattal Lake [Uttarakhand]
Kanwar Lake [Bihar] Roopkund Lake [Uttarakhand]

Also Read:

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Largest Freshwater Lake in India: FAQs

Ans: Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India.

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