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Stationed at the Kolhapur city of the Indian state of Maharashtra, Rankala Lake is a picturesque lake boasting its serene and soothing vicinity. The lake is an artificial one, which has been constructed by Maharaja Shri Shahu Chhatrapati during his time in power over the city.
The lake is believed to have directly been connected to a well in Panhala Fort which Shivaji is supposed to have crossed. At the present time, it has become a famous relaxation point for residents of Kolhapur to spend the weekends. In recent history, Kolhapur Municipal Corporation has put up “Padpath Udyan”, which is meant for a lakeside walk. Chhatrapatis of Kolhapur constructed the lake known as Rankala Lake.
This place having historical importance once had been a stone pit, before the 8th century. However, in 9th century there were natural structural changes that took place on this land. With an opening at the bottom of this pit, water started accumulating in it and this formed a lake which today popularly known as Rankala Lake.
This significant lake has a temple on its side shore with a great statue of Nandi. According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva uses Nandi for traveling. It is supposed that this statue of Nandi steps ahead about a distance of a single wheat grain towards the lake and then steps aback about a distance of single rice grain on a daily basis. It is also believed that if this idol will reach to the lake, the whole world will be destroyed. Sandhya Math was constructed 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 place all the more exciting and enchanting. Recently for the tourism development, the bank on the south-east direction e has been developed into a pathway, park and sit-outs.
The lake is enclosed by chowpati, other gardens and pathway. The area enveloping 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 popular for horse riding and boating.