There is a large lake two kilometres from Maini village in Khatav taluka. It has been reserved by the government and many trees have been planted on its side.
The lake was built by the British about a hundred years ago. Earlier it was used to irrigate agriculture. Its depth was greater earlier, so of course the water level was also greater. But at present, the water level has decreased due to the increase in the number of aquatic plants, numerous types of insects, frogs, water snakes, and snails. Hence water birds, predatory birds, and migratory birds can be seen here.
Among these migratory birds, the flamingo from Kutch is the main attraction. Besides these, the Brahmanical duck, Pattakadam, Haldi-kunku, Archer, Little heron, Rakhi heron, Indian pond heron (Vanchak), Painted stork, Open-billed heron, Black heron, Spoon (Spoon bill), white Ibis, karandav, Black-winged stilt, Sandpiper, River Tern water birds are seen here.
Apart from this, birds of prey like Black-winged kites, Crested Serpent Eagles, Western marsh harriers, Eagles, and Osprey also come here. Birds like the Wagtail bird, Saqqara Bird, white-throated kingfisher, Asian green bee-eater, Black drongo birds, Oriental magpie-robin, Peacock, and Long-tailed shrike are also found here.
Two observation towers have been set up here by the Forest Department, from where you can see the birds. Similarly, the arrangement of binoculars, and nominative pictorial boards have also been provided. Migratory birds come here in large numbers during the month of November-December.
As soon as the winter is over, these birds go home. This place can be reached from Satara. The distance between Satara and Maini is 85 km and can be covered by private vehicles or local buses.
335 KM from Mumbai Airport via Pune, Satara, Aundh, Mayani
182 Km from Pune via Shirwal, Satara, Rahimatpur, Aundh, Mayani
105 KM from Kolhapur via Peth Vadgaon, Ashta, Vita, Mayani
316 KM from Goa via Belgavi, Kolhapur, Toap, Islampur, Palus, Vita, Mayani
70.1 KM from Satara Bus Stand via Rahimatpur, Aundh, Mayani
