Pawna Lake Camping – The Perfect Lakeside Getaway Near Lonavala
Nestled within the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and calming destinations. Just a short distance from the cool hillside town of Lonavala, it has emerged as a preferred weekend getaway for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and surrounding states. The beauty of Pawna Lake camping lies in its calm landscape, crystal waters, sparkling skies, and harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a single adventurer, a circle of buddies, or a family in search of a short escape from city life, Pawna Lake offers an unforgettable lakeside camping experience.
Bordered by historic 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 outdoor and history lovers alike.
Reaching Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is conveniently accessible from both Mumbai and Pune through multiple routes. Travellers can reach the lake by road, train, or even bike, making it one of the most accessible natural getaways in Western India.
From Pune:
1.Via Kamshet (65 km)– Follow the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, go through Somatne Toll Plaza, and turn left at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Travel 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)– Take the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, turn left at Somatne Phata onto Parandwadi Road, pass Kadadhe and Pawananagar Chowk to reach the lake.
From Mumbai:
1.Via Kamshet (117 km)– Head via Vashi on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, take exit at Lonavala, and head towards Kamshet and Pawananagar.
2.Via Lonavala Market (105 km)– Take the Lonavala exit, pass through Lonavala town and Dudhiware Khind, and continue 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 Travellers Love Pawna Lake Camping
The main attraction of Pawna Lake camping lies in its tranquil atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of grassy mountains and a shimmering waterbody, the campsites offer an perfect escape from city chaos. The soothing sounds of rippling water, the cool breeze, and the evening glow turning the lake golden create a captivating ambience.
Guests can enjoy evening retreats in lakeside tents with packages that include evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm firepit under the night sky adds to the magical charm of Pawna nights.
Things to Do at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is more than just a camping destination — it offers a wide variety of recreational and adventure activities suitable for all age groups.
•Tent Camping:Try authentic lakeside camping with well-maintained tents.
•Cottages:Rustic cabins are available for visitors seeking a more secluded and spacious stay.
•Boating & Kayaking:Go for 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 try ziplining for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding at Kamshet or Pawna offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri hills.
Top Fort Treks Around Pawna Lake
The region around Pawna Lake is dotted with famous strongholds and breathtaking trails.
*Tung Fort:Also known as Kathingad, it stands about 1075 metres above sea level and offers a magnificent view of Pawna Dam.
*Lohagad Fort:A moderate trek, Lohagad is easy to reach.
*Tikona Fort:Shaped like a pyramid, Tikona offers panoramic views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding landscape.
*Visapur Fort:Known for its vast fortification and ancient carvings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more challenging trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Placed near Aamby Valley, it gives a glimpse of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort tells a unique story of Maratha history and is a delight for photography lovers.
Cultural and Spiritual Places Around Pawna Lake
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are rich in spiritual charm and religious importance.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves admired 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 structure and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A sacred shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Set amidst gardens and featuring recreational spaces nearby.
Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions
For those who enjoy natural vistas, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide mesmerising scenes.
•Lion’s Point and Tiger Point, Lonavala:Offering stunning views of valleys and mountains, these spots are essential stops for sunset lovers.
•Bhushi Dam:A famous monsoon destination known for its flowing charm and Pawna Lake picnic ambience.
•Duke’s Nose (Nagphani):Popular for trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing, this peak offers a thrilling outdoor experience.
Ideal Season for Pawna Camping
While Pawna Lake is open for camping throughout the year, the most favourable season is betweenOctober and March*. During this time, the skies are bright, the lake is replenished, and the surroundings are fresh.
Winter mornings are often foggy, giving the area a dreamy vibe, while evenings bring chilly winds perfect for bonfires and lakeside music.
In contrast, the rainy season (June to September) adds a fresh layer of greenery, though some campsites may shut down due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
Pawna Lake Experience
A night at Pawna Lake is a soulful retreat — it’s about finding peace. As dusk settles, the dying light on the lake turns silver to gold, followed by deep blue shades. The distant sounds of crickets, the warmth of the bonfire, and the calm water all create an atmosphere of bliss.
Morning at the lake brings calls of nature, mist-covered hills, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a lakeside breakfast.
In Summary
Pawna Lake camping combines nature, adventure, and serenity in one balanced package. Its location near Pune and Mumbai makes it an ideal weekend getaway for those seeking relaxation amidst nature. Whether it’s admiring the night sky, trekking to ancient forts, or simply relaxing in a tent under the open sky, Pawna Lake offers memories that last a lifetime.