Pawna Lake Camping – The Perfect Lakeside Getaway Near Lonavala
Nestled within the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain ranges, Pawna Lake is a truly picturesque and tranquil destinations. Situated close to the hill station 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, glittering lake, starry nights, and perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a solo traveller, a circle of buddies, or a family in search of a short escape from everyday routine, Pawna Lake offers an remarkable lakeside camping experience.
Bordered by legendary strongholds like Lohagad, Tikona, Tung, and Visapur, and close to popular attractions such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a paradise for nature and history lovers alike.
How to Reach Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is conveniently accessible from both Mumbai and Pune through various routes. Travellers can reach the lake by car, railway, or two-wheeler, 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 take a left turn at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Drive along the Pune–Paud Road, turn right at Paud Chowk, pass via Jovan Chowk, and reach Pawna Lake.
3.Via Somatne Phata (57 km)– Take the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, take a 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, take exit at Lonavala, and head towards Kamshet and Pawananagar.
2.Via Lonavala Market (105 km)– Follow the Lonavala exit, go via Lonavala town and Dudhiware Khind, and proceed to Pawna Lake.
By Train:
From Pune or Mumbai, disembark at Kamshet or Lonavala stations. From there, local taxis and shared jeeps are available up to Pawananagar, followed by a short ride to the camping sites.
Why Travellers Love Pawna Lake Camping
The real charm of Pawna Lake camping lies in its tranquil atmosphere. Set against the setting of verdant slopes and a sparkling waterbody, the campsites offer an ideal escape from urban noise. The soothing sounds of rippling water, the cool breeze, and the view of the setting sun turning the lake golden create a mesmerising ambience.
Guests can enjoy overnight stays in lakeside tents with packages that include evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm firepit under the night sky adds to the soothing charm of Pawna nights.
Adventure and Leisure Activities at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is not only a camping destination — it offers a diverse range of Pawna Lake recreational and adventure activities suitable for all age groups.
•Tent Camping:Enjoy authentic lakeside camping with comfortable tents.
•Cottages:Cosy wooden stays are available for visitors seeking a more private and spacious stay.
•Boating & Kayaking:Enjoy 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 experience ziplining for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding at Kamshet or Pawna offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri hills.
Famous Trekking Points Near Pawna
The region around Pawna Lake is surrounded by ancient landmarks and picturesque trails.
*Tung Fort:Also known as Kathingad, it stands 1075 m above sea level and offers a striking view of Pawna Dam.
*Lohagad Fort:A relatively easy trek, Lohagad is suitable for all levels.
*Tikona Fort:Designed in the form of a pyramid, Tikona offers uninterrupted 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:Located 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 explorers.
Temples and Heritage Spots Near Pawna
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are filled with historic value and religious importance.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves renowned for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Less crowded 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 calm replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Dudhiware Khind.
•Narayani Dham:A beautiful temple in Lonavala known for its architecture and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A revered shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Set amidst gardens and featuring family-friendly zones nearby.
Beautiful Spots and Lookouts Near Pawna
For those who enjoy natural vistas, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide postcard-perfect scenes.
•Lion’s Point and Tiger Point, Lonavala:Offering wide-ranging 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 rejuvenated landscape, though some campsites may shut down 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 evening glow 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 birdsong, 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 Pawna Lake camping 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.