Pawna Lake Camping – Your Ideal Weekend Escape Near Lonavala
Nestled amidst the serene Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and peaceful destinations. Located near the hill station of Lonavala, it has grown into a beloved weekend destination for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and adjacent states. The charm of Pawna Lake camping lies in its peaceful environment, clear waters, 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 memorable lakeside camping experience.
Encircled 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 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 different modes of transport, making it one of the most visited natural getaways in Western India.
From Pune:
1.Via Kamshet (65 km)– Drive along the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, cross Somatne Toll Plaza, and turn left at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Travel along the Pune–Paud Road, take a right at Paud Chowk, continue through Jovan Chowk, and reach Pawna Lake.
3.Via Somatne Phata (57 km)– Follow 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)– Drive 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 off 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 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 cool breeze, and the sight of the sunset 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.
•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 try ziplining for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding at Kamshet or Pawna offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri hills.
Popular Trekking Spots Near Pawna Lake
The region around Pawna Lake is home to famous strongholds and stunning 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 beginner-friendly trek, Lohagad is accessible by road.
*Tikona Fort:Shaped like a pyramid, Tikona offers uninterrupted views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding landscape.
*Visapur Fort:Known for its sprawling summit and historic engravings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more demanding trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Situated 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.
Temples and Heritage Spots Near Pawna
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are known for historic value and spiritual significance.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves famous for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Hidden Pawna Lake camping gem but equally captivating, offering a soothing historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A rare 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 grand 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:Encircled with gardens and featuring recreational spaces nearby.
Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions
For those who love breathtaking landscapes, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide mesmerising 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 Pawna Lake popular 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 exciting outdoor experience.
Ideal Season for Pawna Camping
While Pawna Lake is open for camping throughout the year, the most comfortable season is betweenOctober and March*. During this time, the skies are clear, the lake is replenished, and the surroundings are vibrant.
Winter mornings are often misty, giving the area a mystical vibe, while evenings bring chilly winds perfect for bonfires and lakeside music.
In contrast, the rainy season (June to September) adds a lush new look, though some campsites remain closed due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
Pawna Lake Experience
A night at Pawna Lake is a soulful retreat — it’s about embracing tranquillity. As dusk settles, the reflection of the sunset on the lake turns silver to gold, followed by night serenity. The whispers of nature, the crackling campfire, and the calm water all create an atmosphere of rejuvenation.
Morning at the lake brings birdsong, mist-covered hills, 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.