Pawna Lake Camping – The Perfect Lakeside Getaway Near Lonavala
Nestled within the serene Sahyadri hill ranges, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and calming destinations. Located near the hill station of Lonavala, it has become a beloved weekend destination for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and adjacent states. The beauty of Pawna Lake camping lies in its peaceful environment, glittering lake, sparkling skies, and ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a solo traveller, a group of friends, or a family seeking a short escape from city life, Pawna Lake offers an unforgettable lakeside camping experience.
Surrounded by ancient forts like Lohagad, Tikona, Tung, and Visapur, and near famous sites such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a haven for outdoor and history lovers alike.
Reaching Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is easily reachable from both Mumbai and Pune through various routes. Travellers can reach the lake by different modes of transport, making it one of the most visited natural getaways in Western India.
From Pune:
1.Via Kamshet (65 km)– Take the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, pass Somatne Toll Plaza, and take a left turn at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Drive along the Pune–Paud Road, take a right at Paud Chowk, pass via 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, drive through Kadadhe and Pawananagar Chowk to reach the lake.
From Mumbai:
1.Via Kamshet (117 km)– Travel via Vashi on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, 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 down at Kamshet or Lonavala stations. From there, shared jeeps and local vehicles 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 tranquil atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of lush green hills and a glistening waterbody, the campsites offer an ideal escape from daily stress. The soft rhythm of the lake, the refreshing wind, and the evening glow turning the lake golden create a enchanting ambience.
Guests can enjoy evening retreats in lakeside tents with options including evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm firepit under the night sky adds to the magical charm of Pawna nights.
Adventure and Leisure Activities at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is not only a camping destination — it offers a wide variety of recreational and adventure activities suitable for all age groups.
•Tent Camping:Experience authentic lakeside camping with clean tents.
•Cottages:Cosy wooden stays 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 perfect for short treks.
•Zipline:Adventure seekers can enjoy ziplining for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding 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 ancient landmarks 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 sprawling summit and ancient carvings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more adventurous trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Situated near Aamby Valley, it gives a view of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort tells a unique story of Maratha history and is a delight for history enthusiasts.
Historic and Religious Sites Near Pawna Lake
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are known for spiritual charm and religious importance.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves admired for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Less crowded but equally captivating, offering a calm historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A unique temple submerged under water for most of the year, visible during summer months.
•Prati Pandharpur Temple:A calm replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Dudhiware Khind.
•Narayani Dham:A majestic temple in Lonavala known for its architecture and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A highly respected shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Surrounded by gardens and featuring family-friendly zones nearby.
Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions
For those who enjoy natural vistas, several viewpoints Pawna Lake near Pawna Lake provide mesmerising scenes.
•Lion’s Point and Tiger Point, Lonavala:Offering panoramic views of valleys and mountains, these spots are favourites for sunset lovers.
•Bhushi Dam:A famous monsoon destination known for its flowing charm 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 favourable season is betweenOctober and March*. During this time, the skies are clear, the lake is full, and the surroundings are vibrant.
Winter mornings are often hazy, giving the area a ethereal vibe, while evenings bring cool breezes perfect for bonfires and lakeside music.
In contrast, the rainy season (June to September) adds a rejuvenated landscape, though some campsites remain closed due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
The Lakeside 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 gentle night sounds, the glow of embers, and the calm water all create an atmosphere of bliss.
Morning at the lake brings calls of nature, misty ridges, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters.
Conclusion
Pawna Lake camping brings together nature, adventure, and serenity in one balanced package. Its location near Pune and Mumbai makes it an top-rated weekend getaway for those looking to unwind amidst nature. Whether it’s watching stars near the shore, trekking to ancient forts, or simply relaxing in a tent under the open sky, Pawna Lake offers moments to cherish forever.