Pawna Lake Camping – Your Ideal Weekend Escape Near Lonavala
Nestled amidst the majestic Sahyadri hill ranges, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and calming destinations. Just a short distance from the hill station of Lonavala, it has become 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, sparkling skies, and perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a solo traveller, a group of friends, or a family seeking 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 near famous sites such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a haven for outdoor 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 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)– Take the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, take a left at Somatne Phata onto Parandwadi Road, go via Kadadhe and Pawananagar Chowk to reach the lake.
From Mumbai:
1.Via Kamshet (117 km)– Head 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, 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 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 enchanting 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 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:Experience authentic lakeside camping with well-maintained tents.
•Cottages:Rustic cabins are available for visitors seeking a more private and relaxing 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 great 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.
Famous Trekking Points Near Pawna
The region around Pawna Lake is surrounded by 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 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 massive plateau and historic engravings of Pawna Lake camping 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 holds historic tales of Maratha history and is a delight for photography lovers.
Temples and Heritage Spots Near Pawna
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are filled with cultural heritage and religious importance.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves renowned for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Hidden gem 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 serene 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 sacred shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Surrounded by gardens and featuring adventure activities 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 must-visits 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 exciting 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 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 lush new look, though some campsites pause operations due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
What Makes Pawna Lake Special
A night at Pawna Lake is more than just camping — it’s about finding peace. As dusk settles, the reflection of the sunset on the lake turns silver to gold, followed by starry calm. The gentle night sounds, the glow of embers, and the quiet ripples all create an atmosphere of peace.
Morning at the lake brings chirping birds, foggy slopes, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a serene morning meal.
In Summary
Pawna Lake camping blends nature, adventure, and serenity in one complete package. Its proximity to Pune and Mumbai makes it an excellent weekend getaway for those seeking relaxation amidst nature. Whether it’s watching stars near the shore, trekking to ancient forts, or simply enjoying lakeside tranquillity, Pawna Lake offers an experience worth repeating.