There is provided an improved process for preparing microparticles. More particularly, a process is provided for preparing microparticles having a selected release profile for release of drug contained in the microparticles. By subjecting the emulsion to multiple steps including quenching, fine removal by decantation, washing and de-watering in a single vessel followed by lyophilization that is performed during the preparation of the microparticles, good quality microparticles can be prepared. The process of manufacturing the microparticles according to the invention is simple, robust and requires relativey less control of processing parameters. Further, the resulting microparticles possess excellent shape uniformity, exhibiting lesser agglomerating tendency after intermediate stage drying and good flowability in case of dry powder vial filling.