- Lake Maharloo is a seasonal salt lake located southeast of Shiraz in southern Iran
- The lake turns pink in summer due to high heat, evaporation, and salt-loving microorganisms
- Dunaliella salina algae produces carotenoids that give the water its pink to reddish hue
When you think of travel to Iran, images of beautiful mosques, ancient ruins and warm-hearted people might come to mind. But this country tucked in Southwest Asia has more up its sleeve. From the turquoise waters of the Caspian Sea in the north to the golden sands of the Lut Desert in the east, Iran offers a mix of history, culture, landscapes and natural wonders.
One of the most surprising natural spots in Iran – and one that's literally painting the map pink – is Lake Maharloo. This seasonal salt lake turns a stunning shade of pink every summer. Let us dive into what makes it so special and why it turns pink.
Also Read: Meghalaya Travel Guide: What To See, Do, And How Much A Trip Costs
About Lake Maharloo
Lake Maharloo is a seasonal salt lake about 25–27 kilometres southeast of Shiraz in Fars Province, southern Iran. It is part of an arid landscape surrounded by hills and salt flats.
Maharloo is not your typical blue lake. It is a hypersaline lake, meaning the water is super salty – even saltier than the ocean. Because of this, most fish and typical freshwater life can not survive here. Instead, salt-loving microorganisms and occasional migrating birds make this lake their home.
Why Does Lake Maharloo Turn Pink?
The lake does not stay pink all year. The real change begins in summer, when high heat and strong evaporation lower the water level.
According to Toiran.com, most of the lake's water comes from Rudkhane-ye-Khoshk, a seasonal river that flows through Shiraz and carries floodwater to the lake during heavy rain. By the end of summer, much of this water evaporates, often leaving behind a dry, white salt bed. But before that happens, something striking takes place.
Here's a simple breakdown of why Lake Maharloo turns pink:
1. Extreme Summer Heat
Summer in southern Iran is intense. High temperatures speed up evaporation and shrink the lake's water levels. As water disappears, the remaining minerals and salts become more concentrated. This creates the perfect setting for colour changes to begin.
2. Rising Salt Concentration
Lake Maharloo is naturally a salt lake. When evaporation increases, the salt concentration shoots up. The water becomes too salty for most life forms. But for certain microorganisms, this harsh environment is ideal.
3. Red Tide Formation
By mid-summer, the high salt levels trigger what is known as a red tide. This happens when salt-loving microorganisms multiply quickly. Their sudden growth changes the colour of the water. The more they grow, the deeper the shade becomes.
4. Dunaliella Salina And Carotenoids
The main star behind the pink colour is Dunaliella salina, a halophile green microalgae found in salt-rich environments. To protect itself from strong sunlight and extreme salinity, it produces carotenoids. These natural pigments, especially beta-carotene, give the lake its pink to reddish hue.
What You Will See – Beyond The Pink
Maharloo Lake is more than just a splash of colour.
Nature And Wildlife
- Birdlife: The lake and its surroundings attract various birds, including flamingos and ducks, especially during migration seasons.
- Reptiles And Mammals: While the water is too salty for most fish, nearby areas support lizards, snakes, turtles and some small mammals.
- Brine Shrimp: Tiny saltwater shrimp (Artemia) live in these waters and feed on the algae.
- Scenic Views: The lake is set against dry hills and salt flats that shine brilliantly under the sun – a photographer's dream.
Also Read: Why This Surreal Luxury Resort In Red Sea Won A Major Award, First For Saudi Arabia
Seasonal Changes
Like many deserts and salt lakes, Maharloo changes with the weather:
- Late Winter – Spring: Higher water levels from rain and runoff make the lake broader and the pink colour subtler.
- Summer: Peak pink – when the water is less, and salt is most concentrated.
- Autumn – Winter: Cooler weather and rain can fill the lake again, giving it a different look.
Travel Guide For Lake Maharloo
Ready to add this pink marvel to your Iran adventure? Here is the practical information you need.
How to Get There
Nearest Major City: Shiraz, one of Iran's most beautiful cities, known for gardens, poetry (Hafez & Saadi), and ancient sites.
From Shiraz:
- By car or taxi: Lake Maharloo is roughly 25–30 km southeast of Shiraz.
- Road signs from the Shiraz–Fasa route can help guide you toward the lake and nearby Maharloo village.
Best Time to Visit Lake Maharloo
- Summer (June–September): Best chance to see the vivid pink colour due to evaporation and high salt.
- Spring & Autumn: Mild weather and water levels are nicer for exploring, though pink is less intense.
- Avoid Mid-winter: It can be chilly, and the pink hue is not prominent.
Travel Tips
Clothing And Comfort:
- Wear comfortable shoes – the salt flats can be rough or slippery in spots.
- Bring sun protection and water – the area is hot and sunny most of the year.
Photography:
- Walk the edge of the lake for reflections and salt crystal patterns.
- Early morning or late afternoon light gives the best colours for photos.
Safety:
- Do not swim – the water is extremely salty and can irritate skin and eyes.
- Stay on firm ground – some parts may be soft or muddy.
Also Read: Last-Minute Valentine's Getaways: Romantic Spots Near India For Couples
Lake Maharloo is a striking example of nature's chemistry – sunlight, salt and microorganisms dancing together to paint a lake pink. It shows how different environments can produce unexpected beauty. Whether you are into photography, wildlife, or just unique natural spots, this pink lake near Shiraz is a must-see on your Iran itinerary.
Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world
