If you were to single out one thing that would stand out as the pride of Thane, what would you suggest? A beautiful place that Thane is, many would mention the Yeoor hills, others would single out Bara Bangla, still more would point to the flyovers in Thane. But the lion's share of the votes would definitely go to Talaopali-the Queen's necklace of Thane.

It has been the pride of the city since time immemorable. The charm of the beautiful lake has never failed to enchant one and all, big and small. Located in the heart of the city, the road surrounding the oval lake is usually a picture of intense activity; people rushing home/office, old couples strolling around the lake, 'mobile chanawalas' calling out, kids enjoying the tonga rides, love-birds whispering sweet nothings, et al. Not only in the mornings, but the evenings also see fitness freaks jogging and walking around the lake.

The Boat club forms an integral part of the lake. Besides Thaneites, it also attracts hordes of people coming from nearby suburbs like Mulund, Kalwa, etc. A host of buildings and famous places can be seen around the lake's periphery. The famous Gadkari Rangayatan in the backdrop makes it more beautiful. Then, there is the swimming pool and the statue of Shivaji on the radius of the lake adding to the grandeur. The St.John church is also a beautiful part of the surroundings. Above all, there's the temple in the middle of the loch adding an exotic look.

Unarguably, the best time to be at Talaopali or the Masunda Lake is during the evenings. The ambience that the waterfront displays during the evenings is simply incomparable. Shining lights, water-fountains springing up amidst colourful lights, boats spread all across the lake, the tall light tower showering silvery light and draping the lake in a luminous shimmering veil as in moonlit nights. All of them make the lake look like a dressed-up bride and Talaopali true to its sobriquet, her diamond studded necklace