Charlotte lake
About Charlotte lake
Far From City: 1 kms from city center
Cost:
About Charlotte lake
Weather:
Time Required:Less than 1 hour
Open Time:Sunrise to Sunset
Cost:No entry fee
Things To Do at Charlotte Lake
Visit Pisharnath Mahadev Temple
The ancient Shiva temple is located on the left bank of the lake. The deity of the temple, the Pisharnath form of the Lord Destroyer is considered to be the gramadevata or village deity of the area. Visitors come to this temple with great respect and devotion as the Pisharnath Mandir is the oldest one in Matheran.
A unique aspect of the temple is its shivalingam, which unlike the usual black ones, is smeared with vermillion here and is tilted to one said. The locals believe that the lingam is swayambhu or self-manifested. If you come for a trip to Charlotte Lake, you can also pay a visit to this temple, especially if you are spiritual-minded. Being located beside the lake, the surroundings of the temple is extremely pacific.
Birdwatching
Large water bodies always attract a variety of avian species, and Lake Charlotte is no exception. Varied species of birds, both domestic and migratory flock over the peaceful lake for a quick dip of the feathers or for the day's meal or simply to perch atop a piece of greenery. Lake Charlotte thus provides ample opportunity for an avian photographer or a nature enthusiast to have a glimpse of these exotic creatures from close quarters.
Camping and Picnicking
Lake Charlotte is the number one spot for camping and picnicking. Secluded and serene, the bank of the lake is all enveloped in an eye and mind soothing green all around. Thus, it sets the perfect backdrop for a day of barbecuing and chatting and a night of drinking and singing. There are some campsites around the lake region which will provide you a place and tents along with washroom and cooking facilities for overnight camping.
Watching sunset
During sunset, the day's farewell reflects in the poignant waters of the lake in bright orange, making the place look like a paradise. It will be a shame if you miss this out-of-the-world scene.
Best time to visit Charlotte lake
Lake Charlotte is in its full majestic form during the monsoon, when like all other South Indian rain-fed water bodies, the showers fill the lake up to the brim. However, monsoon can spoil bird watching or outdoor camping sessions as well. So, the ideal time is just immediately after the monsoon, during October-November.
How to Reach Charlotte lake
Any sort of motor-driven vehicle is not allowed in Matheran. You can take a bus or private car up to Dasturi car point from where you will need a horseback ride or a man-pulled rickshaw to ferry you to your hotel in Matheran or directly to the lake if you want. Within Matheran, horses, cycle rickshaws and your own two feet are the only means of transport for you.
Top Tourist Places in Matheran
City Shopping
Panorama point
Monkey point
Charlotte lake
Shivaji's ladder
Porcupine point
All Tourist Places in Matheran
Tips
1. Since the lake serves as a source of drinking water for Matheran, don't try to take a bath or wash anything in the lake. It is forbidden.2. Definitely, do not throw or drop anything in the lake either for the same reason.3. Do not leave behind any scraps after you are done camping or picnicking.4. Spend some time taking in the beauty of the lake with your eyes and mind and keep your mobile cameras and DSLRs away. Pictures all look the same, and it is your memory that matters.5. There are a lot of monkeys at this point. Beware of them. Don't eat anything in front of them (they tend to snatch the food) and don't disturb or mock them.
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