Located in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Rankala Lake is a popular tourist attraction for visitors from all over the country and the world. For locals, it is the most-visited evening spot and recreation centre. Rankala Lake offers a blend of picturesque beauty and cultural significance. Belonging to the 9th century, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and serene scenery. It is an ideal spot for relaxation, long walks, picnics, and some time away from routine life. Whether you are just a tourist curious to see new places, a history buff, a nature lover, or someone looking for a peaceful location to unwind, Rankala Lake is your perfect destination.
History Of Rankala Lake
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It is said that Rankala Lake is not a real and natural lake. It was built by Shri Chhatrapati Sahu Maharaj, the King of Kolhapur in those days. It is believed that in earlier days, there was a stone quarry here. In the 9th century AD, an earthquake shook the earth, and due to this, the ground shifted, and underground water came up to the surface. It is also said that the workers took stones from this location to build the Mahalaxmi Temple, thus forming a depression. The stone quarry was gradually filled, and a lake was created. Interestingly, there is a folklore claiming that this lake is connected to a well in Panhala fort and that there is an underground tunnel in the lake used by Shivaji Maharaja to reach Panhala fort.
Must Read: Tourist Places In Kolhapur
Location Of Rankala Lake in Kolhapur
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The Rankala Lake is located on the western side of Kolhapur, southwest of Maharashtra. It is about 2.5 kilometres from Mahalakshmi temple, a significant landmark of Kolhapur and about 1.5 kilometres from ISKCON temple, Kolhapur. On its north stands Rankala Tower, in the west lies the royal Shalini palace and on the east of Rankala Lake is Padma Raje Gardens.
Best Time To Visit Rankala Lake
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Rankala Lake can be visited all through the year. However, if you visit it during the Monsoon, you will find it mostly submerged. Also due to rain, your visit may not be as enjoyable as otherwise. In the post-monsoon months, the lake looks very beautiful as the water level is optimum. About two hours are good enough to have a complete tour of the lake.
Suggested Read: Picnic Spots Near Nashik
Things To Do at Rankala Lake
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There is a lot to explore in and around Rankala Lake. The two ghats of the lake, Rajgath and Marathghat, are always busy with visitors. The banks of the lake are well-maintained and there is ample space to sit and enjoy the natural ambience. The beautiful views of Shalini Palace, Padma Raje Gardens, Rankala Tower and the greenery around it create a picturesque view for you to enjoy sitting around the lake. Here are some of the nearby places to visit around Rankala Lake –
1. Shalini Palace, Kolhapur
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Standing tall on the banks of Rankala Lake, Shalini Palace is a luxurious palace hotel and an architectural marvel. It was constructed by Maharaja Shahji Chhatrapati of Kolhapur for his loving daughter Princess Shalini Raje. The palace, featuring intricately carved black stone and Italian marble, and lined with pretty palm trees and gardens, looks regal. The Palace was transformed into a luxury and heritage hotel in 1987. It offers a royal and comfortable stay in well-furnished and well-equipped rooms. The ground floor of the hotel exhibits clothing and artefacts from the bygone era.
Location: New Palace, Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: 3 Days Trip From Mumbai
2. Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur
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Built in the 7th century by Chalukya rulers, the Mahalakshmi temple is revered by Hindus as one of the six homes of ‘Shakti’, the power of the supreme goddess. Mahalakshmi, also called Goddess Ambabai by devotees, is a revered goddess The devotees visit the temple daily to pray to attain fulfilment and salvation of their worldly or immortal desires. The temple is seen as one of the key pilgrimage sites in India. The temple is quite near both the Kolhapur railway station and the bus depot. You can buy prasad and flowers to offer the goddess from outside of the temple. Nearby is Goddess Ambabai’s temple which devotees also visit after darshan at Mahalakshmi temple.
Location: Mahalaxmi – Ambabai mandir, Mahadwar Rd
Entry Fee: Free
3. Chaupati, Rankala Lake
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The Chaupati is a popular recreation and leisure spot located on the eastern side of Rankala Lake. It is a vibrant area that comes alive during the evenings when several visitors gather to enjoy the scenic views of the lake along with savoury and sweet local delicacies offered by the eateries around Rankala Lake. When at Chaupati, do not miss tasting the traditional Kolhapuri dishes, such as Bhelpuri, Dabeli, Pav Bhaji, Ragda pattis etc offered at the food stalls here at affordable prices. It is a wonderful place to have a long stroll, enjoy horse riding or just stand and absorb the natural beauty of the place.
Location: Along the perimeter road of Rankala Lake
Entry Fee: Free
Further Read: Places To Visit In Maharashtra In Summer
The Rankala Lake in Kolhapur is a must-visit destination. It is a large lake with breathtaking water views and the surrounding area. The best part about the lake is that its banks are well-maintained, with ample seating arrangements for visitors. One can sit by the lake and enjoy the small gardens there. The lake offers interesting activities for the visitors, such as horseback riding and boating. It is also a great place for food lovers to enjoy some local delicacies. Do you feel like being around Rankala Lake already? Book your trip to Kolhapur with us today.
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Cover Image credit: By Ajinkya A Shinde for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rankala Lake
Why is Rankala Lake famous?
Rankala Lake is famous in Kolhapur due to being a scenic beauty with historical importance. It is a major source of water as well for the city, as it gets filled by natural ground resources. Visitors and locals visit Rankala Lake to enjoy its natural beauty and some fun activities around the lake.
Where is Rankala Lake?
Rankala Lake is on the western side of Kolhapur, one of the big cities of the state of Maharashtra. Once you reach Kolhapur by road, train or flight, finding the lake will not be difficult for you as it is a famous landmark of Kolhapur.
Which lake is famous in Kolhapur?
Rankala Lake is one of the famous lakes of Kolhapur. The lake is visited by many locals and tourists throughout the year due to its natural splendour and iconic buildings around it.
What to do around Rankala Lake?
Rankala Lake offers many interesting activities such as horseback riding and boating in the lake. Besides that, you can take a long walk in the morning or evening and enjoy the spectacular views of the lake. People also hang out around Chaupati, which runs along the peripheral road of the lake, to enjoy some delicious local delicacies.
Is Rankala Lake worth visiting?
Yes! Rankala Lake is one of the iconic landmarks of Kolhapur. It has been the sight of Marathi and Hindi movie shootings. You will enjoy your visit to the lake.
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