Aurangabad To Lonar One Day Trip

Day 1: Aurangabad – Lonar Lake – AurangabadLonar is about 150 to 160 km from Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar), a 3 to 3.5 hour drive via Jalna and Mantha (or via Sillod and Buldhana side routes, depending on road conditions). It is home to Lonar Crater Lake, a rare saltwater lake formed by a meteorite impact about 50,000 years ago in basalt rock. The lake and its ancient temples, wildlife, and legends make it one of Maharashtra’s most unusual destinations, and an early start makes it a rewarding one day trip. 5:30 AM: Depart from Aurangabad Take the Aurangabad-Jalna road towards Mantha and Lonar. Stop for chai and breakfast near Jalna around 7:30 AM. 9:00 AM: Arrive at Lonar and Crater Rim Viewpoint Park near the crater rim and take in the view of the circular lake, about 1.2 km across, surrounded by greenery. The water is alkaline and saline, and its colour can change with season and algae. Allow about 45 minutes. 10:00 AM: Dhar Temple and Descent Trail A stepped path leads down to the lake, where the Dhar temple and the Gomukh spring are located. The path is steep and can be slippery, so wear grip-friendly footwear and skip it in heavy rain or if you have knee or mobility concerns. Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours. 11:45 AM: Daityasudan Temple Visit this 12th century Hemadpanti-style black stone temple in Lonar town, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and known for its fine carvings. Allow about 45 minutes. 12:45 PM: Lunch Have a simple Maharashtrian veg meal at the restaurants in Lonar. Try thali, jowar bhakri, and local snacks. 1:45 PM: Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary and Ancient Temples Walk through the sanctuary around the crater for birdlife and langurs, and see the scattered old temples along the rim. Birdlife is best in the early morning and in winter. Sightings are never guaranteed. 3:30 PM: Return to Aurangabad Drive back via Mantha and Jalna with a tea and dinner stop. You should reach Aurangabad around 7:00 to 8:00 PM. Travel Tips Winter (October to February) is the best season for comfortable walking and birdwatching. The monsoon is green but the descent trail is slippery, and summer afternoons are very hot. Wear grip-friendly footwear, a hat, and sunscreen, and carry water and snacks, as shade and food options near the crater are limited. Do not enter or swim in the lake, litter, or disturb wildlife, as the crater is an ecologically sensitive site. Access rules, entry fees, and trail conditions can change, so confirm locally before you travel. Road conditions can vary, so check the best route with your driver before starting. Mobile network can be patchy near the crater, so download maps in advance. Why Choose This Trip? This trip brings you to a rare meteor crater lake with ancient temples and a quiet sanctuary in one day. A private cab gives you comfort on the long rural drive, flexibility with timings, and no stress with navigation, which suits families, nature lovers, and photographers. For a comfortable Aurangabad to Lonar cab with an experienced driver, book with Wonder India Cab Trip Zone.