Pawna Lake Camping – Your Ideal Weekend Escape Near Lonavala
Nestled among the serene Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and peaceful destinations. Located near the popular hill retreat of Lonavala, it has grown into a beloved weekend destination for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and surrounding states. The appeal of Pawna Lake camping lies in its peaceful environment, clear waters, starry nights, and perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a solo traveller, a circle of buddies, or a family looking for a short escape from urban chaos, Pawna Lake offers an memorable lakeside camping experience.
Encircled by ancient forts like Lohagad, Tikona, Tung, and Visapur, and within reach of notable landmarks such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a delight for eco and history lovers alike.
Ways to Get to Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is well-connected from both Mumbai and Pune through several routes. Travellers can reach the lake by road, train, or even bike, making it one of the most connected natural getaways in Western India.
From Pune:
1.Via Kamshet (65 km)– Follow the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, cross Somatne Toll Plaza, and head left at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Head along the Pune–Paud Road, turn right at Paud Chowk, go straight from Jovan Chowk, and reach Pawna Lake.
3.Via Somatne Phata (57 km)– Use the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, take a left at Somatne Phata onto Parandwadi Road, pass Kadadhe and Pawananagar Chowk to reach the lake.
From Mumbai:
1.Via Kamshet (117 km)– Drive via Vashi on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, exit at Lonavala, and head towards Kamshet and Pawananagar.
2.Via Lonavala Market (105 km)– Follow the Lonavala exit, drive through Lonavala town and Dudhiware Khind, and carry on to Pawna Lake.
By Train:
From Pune or Mumbai, get off at Kamshet or Lonavala stations. From there, travellers’ jeeps and local transport are available up to Pawananagar, followed by a short ride to the camping sites.
Why Pawna Lake Is a Favourite Among Campers
The true essence of Pawna Lake camping lies in its serene aura. Set against the view of grassy mountains and a shimmering waterbody, the campsites offer an wonderful escape from daily stress. The soft rhythm of the lake, the refreshing wind, and the evening glow turning the lake golden create a captivating ambience.
Guests can enjoy evening retreats in lakeside tents with options including evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm bonfire under the twinkling stars adds to the unforgettable charm of Pawna nights.
Pawna Lake Activities
Pawna Lake is more than just a camping destination — it offers a wide variety of recreational and adventure activities suitable for all age groups. Pawna Lake camping
•Tent Camping:Try authentic lakeside camping with clean tents.
•Cottages:Rustic cabins are available for visitors seeking a more exclusive and comfortable stay.
•Boating & Kayaking:Try a peaceful paddle or kayak across the calm waters.
•Trekking:Surrounding forts such as Tikona, Tung, Lohagad, and Visapur are ideal for short treks.
•Zipline:Adventure seekers can enjoy ziplining for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding Pawna Lake at Kamshet or Pawna offers aerial views of the Sahyadri hills.
Top Fort Treks Around Pawna Lake
The region around Pawna Lake is dotted with historic forts and breathtaking trails.
*Tung Fort:Also known as Kathingad, it stands about 1075 metres above sea level and offers a superb view of Pawna Dam.
*Lohagad Fort:A moderate trek, Lohagad is easy to reach.
*Tikona Fort:Formed as a pyramid, Tikona offers panoramic views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding landscape.
*Visapur Fort:Known for its massive plateau and ancient carvings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more adventurous trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Placed near Aamby Valley, it gives a view of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort holds historic tales of Maratha history and is a delight for explorers.
Historic and Religious Sites Near Pawna Lake
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are rich in spiritual charm and devotional appeal.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves renowned for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Quieter but equally captivating, offering a peaceful historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A remarkable temple submerged under water for most of the year, visible during summer months.
•Prati Pandharpur Temple:A tranquil replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Dudhiware Khind.
•Narayani Dham:A beautiful temple in Lonavala known for its design and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A revered shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Surrounded by gardens and featuring family-friendly zones nearby.
Top Sightseeing Points Around Pawna Lake
For those who enjoy natural vistas, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide postcard-perfect scenes.
•Lion’s Point and Tiger Point, Lonavala:Offering panoramic views of valleys and mountains, these spots are essential stops for sunset lovers.
•Bhushi Dam:A well-known monsoon destination known for its overflowing stream and picnic ambience.
•Duke’s Nose (Nagphani):Popular for trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing, this peak offers a thrilling outdoor experience.
When to Visit Pawna Lake
While Pawna Lake is open for camping throughout the year, the most comfortable season is betweenOctober and March*. During this time, the skies are bright, the lake is full, and the surroundings are fresh.
Winter mornings are often hazy, giving the area a dreamy vibe, while evenings bring cool breezes perfect for bonfires and lakeside music.
In contrast, the rainy season (June to September) adds a fresh layer of greenery, though some campsites pause operations due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
The Lakeside Experience
A night at Pawna Lake is more than just camping — it’s about finding peace. As dusk settles, the dying light on the lake shimmers beautifully, followed by deep blue shades. The whispers of nature, the crackling campfire, and the calm water all create an atmosphere of rejuvenation.
Morning at the lake brings calls of nature, foggy slopes, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters.
In Summary
Pawna Lake camping brings together nature, adventure, and serenity in one perfect package. Its location near Pune and Mumbai makes it an excellent weekend getaway for those looking to unwind amidst nature. Whether it’s admiring the night sky, trekking to ancient forts, or simply resting beside the calm waters, Pawna Lake offers memories that last a lifetime.