Charlotte Lake

Charlotte Lake in Matheran (celebrated locally as Sharlott Lake, one of Maharashtra's most scenic, ecologically vital, and tranquil freshwater forest reservoirs, serving as the sole primary source of drinking water for the entire eco sensitive hill station since 1956), located in the verdant heart of Matheran in Maharashtra, stands as Matheran's most iconic leisure and spiritual landmark.

Constructed in 1956 by damming the perennial rainwater streams that collect inside the central forest hollow of the plateau, this freshwater lake is named in colonial records after Charlotte, the daughter of an early British district collector of Thane.

It's the home of the sacred ancient Pisarnath Temple (presided over by Lord Pisarnath, the revered presiding gram daivat deity of Matheran whose svayambhu stone idol tilted in the water attracts thousands of tribal Thakur and rural Konkan devotees), the seasonal Charlotte Lake spillway waterfall that tumbles gracefully over dark basalt boulders during the monsoon months, the shimmering crystal clear waters reflecting dense canopies of Jamun, Silver Oak, and wild fig trees, the rich population of resident forest birds including Malabar whistling thrushes, kingfishers, and bulbuls, the wide red laterite lakeside walking paths where families picnic and couples stroll, and an intensely peaceful, therapeutic atmosphere where the gentle lapping of lake water and rustling forest leaves provide pure tranquility.

It represents a rich 70 year-old freshwater reservoir heritage, Western Ghats wetland ecology, and hill station walking tourism where Pisarnath shrines, monsoon waterfalls, tranquil waters, and shaded forest promenades unite in Charlotte Lake Matheran.

Located in the southern central sector of Matheran plateau, it sits just 1.5 km from Matheran Central Market / Railway Station, 9 km from Dasturi Naka taxi terminus, 90 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM), and 120 km from Pune, easily accessible on foot, on horseback, or via hand pulled rickshaw.

1956 Freshwater Reservoir & Drinking Water Lifeline

The lake was created by building a masonry dam across the natural forest valley to store millions of liters of clean monsoon rainwater for Matheran town.

To preserve the purity of this municipal drinking reservoir, swimming, boating, and washing are strictly banned, ensuring the water remains sparkling clean year round.

Truth is, standing along the lake bund at twilight while mist rises from the calm water is one of the most soothing sights in the Sahyadris.

Sacred Pisarnath Temple & Tribal Heritage

Lord Pisarnath Shrine: Situated on the southern bank of the lake, this ancient temple honors Lord Pisarnath, believed to grant good health and prosperity to every traveler who prays here.

Spillway Waterfall: During July and August, overflow water cascades over the masonry weir into a steep forested ravine, creating a wonderful natural shower.

Echo Point, Louisa Point & Southern Trail Hub

Central Trail Junction: Charlotte Lake is the geographical hub connecting trails toward Echo Point, Louisa Point, Lord Point, and King George Point.

Birdwatching & Picnics: The shaded grassy clearings around the lake provide a peaceful sanctuary for spotting colorful butterflies, forest drongos, and migratory flycatchers.

After soaking in the calm waters of Charlotte Lake, offer prayers at Pisarnath Mandir, explore nearby Echo Point, or relax with hot tea in Matheran market.