Place Details:
Located in the north-eastern suburb of the same name, Powai Lake is the best-known landmark in Powai. The lake gets its name from the Framaji Kavasji Powai Estate, was built in 1891 and was originally used to supply water to Mumbai city. Today, however, the lake has been reduced to a landmark and a sewage outlet. From across the lake, you can spot many of Powai’s major buildings, including the Marriott Renaissance Hotel and the neo-classical Hiranandani Gardens township. The lake has long been a popular spot for some rest and recreation. You can spot migration birds that visit the lake every year, and various species of fish. However, recent years have seen the flora and fauna in and around the lake diminish. Nevertheless, Powai Lake remains a popular place to visit and a quiet oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Mumbai city. ALSO READ: Best places to eat in Mumbai post midnight – foodies, ahoy!
The lake was built on land that was once part of Powai village. It was leased out by the government to Framaji Kavasji Banaji, the first and original landowner of Powai, in 1826. In 1889, it was decided that a tributary of the Mithi River would be dammed, forming a reservoir downstream of the river and the much larger Vihar Lake. The result was Powai Lake, which was completed in a year. However, within the 1890s, the lake water was found to be undrinkable. There was another attempt in 1919 to restore supply, but it didn’t work out. It then fell into the hands of the Western India Fishing Association, and then the Bombay Presidency Angling Association followed by the Maharashtra State Angling Association (MSAA). CHECK OUT: 9 best shopping destinations in Mumbai where you can shop AND save!
When it was built, Powai Lake was spread across 2.1 square kilometers, with the water depth ranging from around three meters around the banks to 12 meters at its deepest. The water levels have fluctuated over the years, rising during the monsoons and turning it even more beautiful. And while the fish population is not as high as it used to be, you could still see a crocodile poking out of the water if you are lucky. The lake lies around 40 km from downtown Mumbai, and can be reached through Andheri and Santacruz or Kurla, SIon or King’s Circle. The nearwest railway station is Kanjurmarg (in the central line).
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