The list of the top 10 largest freshwater lakes highlights some of India’s most stunning and important lakes, showcasing both their beauty and ecological importance.
India is famous for its beautiful nature and rich culture, and one of its most important resources is freshwater lakes. These lakes are not only large but also play a key role in maintaining the environment and supporting human life.
For example, from the vast Wular Lake in Jammu and Kashmir to the Kanwar Lake in Bihar, they provide livelihoods to fishermen, supply drinking water, and support aquatic life and ecosystems.
What are Freshwater Lakes?
- Freshwater lakes are bodies of water that contain little to no salt, unlike the oceans or seas.
- These lakes are formed when water collects in low areas of land and doesn’t have a lot of salt mixed in.
- Freshwater lakes are important because they provide clean water for drinking, farming, and other uses.
- They also support a wide variety of plants and animals, making them key to the environment.
- Examples of freshwater lakes in India include Wular Lake in Jammu and Kashmir and Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan.
- These lakes play an important role in maintaining the balance of nature by providing a habitat for different species and helping in water conservation.
◾Also Checkout: Major Lakes in India Complete Notes 2024
List Of Top 10 Largest Freshwater Lakes in India
Here is the list of the top 10 biggest freshwater lakes in India.
SL. NO. | Lake Name | State |
---|---|---|
1 | Wular Lake | Jammu and Kashmir |
2 | Loktak Lake | Manipur |
3 | Nagarjuna Sagar Lake | Andhra Pradesh and Telangana |
4 | Sardar Sarovar Lake | Gujarat |
5 | Govind Sagar Lake | Himachal Pradesh |
6 | Kolleru Lake | Andhra Pradesh |
7 | Indira Sagar Lake | Madhya Pradesh |
8 | Shivaji Sagar Lake | Maharashtra |
9 | Dhebar Lake | Rajasthan |
10 | Kanwar Lake | Bihar |
Largest Freshwater Lakes In India
- Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India.
- Located in Jammu & Kashmir, India.
- Spreads over an area of approximately 200 square kilometers.
- An important biodiversity hotspot, providing habitat for various species of birds, fish, and other wildlife.
- Supports a rich diversity of fish species.
- Sustains the livelihood of around 8,000 fishers.
◾Also Read: Artificial Lakes in India: Exam-Ready Notes
Why Freshwater Lakes Are Important For Ecosystem And Human Life?
Freshwater lakes are very important for both the environment and human life. These lakes provide fresh water that is used for drinking, farming, and many other needs. They also support a variety of plants and animals, making them key to the natural world. Many freshwater lakes are home to different species of fish, birds, and other wildlife, creating rich ecosystems.
These lakes help regulate the water cycle by collecting rainwater and filtering it, ensuring that we have clean water to use. They also play a role in preventing floods by soaking up extra water during heavy rain. In addition, freshwater lakes support local economies through activities like fishing and tourism.
Overall, freshwater lakes are essential for maintaining life, supporting biodiversity, and ensuring that both the environment and human communities have the resources they need.
FAQs
The largest freshwater lake in India is Wular Lake, located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The largest freshwater lake in the world by volume is Lake Baikal in Russia. It holds about 20% of the world’s unfrozen surface freshwater and has a depth of 1,642 meters. By surface area, the largest is Lake Superior in North America.
Dal Lake is a freshwater lake located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its houseboats, shikaras, and scenic beauty.
The largest freshwater lake in North East India is Loktak Lake, located in the state of Manipur.
The longest freshwater lake in the world is Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is approximately 673 kilometers (418 miles) long.
The largest freshwater lake in Kerala is Sasthamkotta Lake.