Gadeshwar Lake: Timing, Fees, Stay & Weather

Gadeshwar Lake is one of the best and most interesting natural areas to check out near Mumbai. Located in the outskirts of the city, near Panvel, it offers the perfect opportunity for a short road trip to spend some time surrounded by nature in the vicinity of a large lake cocooned by hillocks.

What is Gadeshwar Lake

Gadeshwar Lake is a large water body near Panvel, formed by the dam on the Gadhi River. It is a beautiful area surrounded by green paddy fields and by the peaks of some local mountains, giving it a unique feel. The lake is visited by many people, especially in the rainy season for swimming, boating, picnicking, camping and trekking.

The Lake is located only about 30 minutes from Panvel and about 2 hours from Mumbai, depending on where you start. From Mumbai, one takes the Mumbai-Goa highway to Panvel and from the Panvel Bus Station, the lake is at a distance of only 8 Kms. This makes it a popular spot for people to congregate and explore the area.

Things to do in and around Gadeshwar Lake

Visiting a water body has its own charm. The area round lakes tend to be peaceful and have a calming effect. A regular supply of water ensures lush greenery and interesting flora and fauna everywhere one turns. There are several different inlets and pockets around the lake that are especially beautiful and pock marked with good picnic sites.

The Karnala Bird Sanctuary: This protected sanctuary is worth a visit as it houses a number of interesting species of birds, mammals and reptiles. Some of the birds here migrate from areas as far away as Siberia and are easy to spot with the naked eye or with a powerful pair of binoculars.

Shiva Temple: There is a sacred and revered Shiva Temple near the lake that is said to mark a footstep of Lord Shiva during his travels here. Many people visit this temple and make wishes, which are said to be granted, if asked with an open heart.

Belapur Fort: Dating back from 1500’s the Belapur Fort has many different names and an illustrious history of war between the locals and the Portuguese. Now in a state of disrepair and ruin, the fort offers excellent opportunities for treks of discovery.

Louisa Point: This is a popular vantage point from where you can get some amazing views of the area. From here, you can see endless maintains and the lake and some amazing sunset skies if you get here at the right time. With a little bit of patience, you may also be able to spot some animals grazing in the thicket.

Karnala Fort: This is another popular fort in a coastline where forts were once the norm. Built before 1400 AD, the fort is located inside the Karnala Bird Sanctuary and offers excellent opportunities to study the architecture of this interesting and formative period.

Where to stay near Gadeshwar Lake

One of the best places to stay near Gadeshwar Lake is the Visava Amusement Park and Resort. This is a unique water park that has slides, rides and swimming pools for guests to have a fun time during their visit to this area. If you are going to Gadeshwar Lake, you can stop at this waterpark for a swim or have a meal at its famous restaurant called Garam Masala.

The resort also offers comfortable rooms for an overnight stay. With several interesting categories of rooms including large family rooms and numerous venues for parties and functions, the resort is the perfect opportunity for a weekend getaway from Mumbai.

Gadeshwar Lake Timings: 7 AM to 10 PM

Gadeshwar Lake Prices: Free