Rankala Lake, Kolhapur, Maharashtra India

The Lake is surrounded by Chaupati and other gardens. Prior to the 8th century this historical place was just a stone quarry. In the earthquake which took place sometime in 9th century some natural structural change took place in the quarry. Water started accumulating in this quarry due to opening of an underground source. This accumulated water is today’s famous Rankala Lake. This historic lake has a temple with very big Nandi. As per Hindu mythology Lord Shiva uses Nandi for traveling. It is believed that this idol of Nandi moves about a distance of a single wheat grain towards the lake and back about a distance of single rice grain daily. It is also said that when this idol reaches the lake the whole world will be destroyed. Sandhya Math was built on the banks of this lake. Towards the north side of this lake there is "Shalani Palace" and towards north-east "Padmaraje Garden" makes the scene of this lake enchanting. Recently for development of tourism, South-East bank the lake has been developed into a pathway, park and sit-outs. This historical lake has a temple nearby with a mammoth structure of Nandi, the chariot of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that a golden temple is submerged under the temple of Rankabhairav.

 The area surrounding the lake has been converted into a garden where people sell Bhel-Puri, Ragda Patis and various mouth-watering snacks like roasted corns etc. Rankala is also famous for horse riding and boating. The Shalini Palace stands on the west bank of the lake. It is built of intricately carved black stone and Italian marble. Recently, the palace is now converted into a hotel.