Pawna Lake Camping – The Perfect Lakeside Getaway Near Lonavala
Nestled within the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain ranges, Pawna Lake is one of Maharashtra’s most scenic and peaceful destinations. Located near the hill station of Lonavala, it has become a favourite weekend spot for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and neighbouring states. The charm of Pawna Lake camping lies in its serene surroundings, clear waters, sparkling skies, and ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a lone explorer, a team of travellers, or a family seeking a short escape from urban chaos, Pawna Lake offers an unforgettable lakeside camping experience.
Surrounded 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 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 car, railway, or two-wheeler, making it one of the most accessible natural getaways in Western India.
From Pune:
1.Via Kamshet (65 km)– Take 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, continue through Jovan Chowk, and reach Pawna Lake.
3.Via Somatne Phata (57 km)– Follow 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, get off 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 carry on 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 Pawna Lake Is a Favourite Among Campers
The main attraction of Pawna Lake camping lies in its serene aura. Set against the view of verdant slopes and a glistening waterbody, the campsites offer an wonderful escape from city chaos. The soothing sounds of rippling water, the refreshing wind, and the evening glow turning the lake golden create a captivating ambience.
Guests can enjoy overnight stays in lakeside tents with offers featuring evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm bonfire under the starlit sky adds to the soothing charm of Pawna nights.
Things to Do at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is more than just a camping destination — it offers a good mix of recreational and adventure activities suitable for all age groups.
•Tent Camping:Enjoy authentic lakeside camping with clean tents.
•Cottages:Rustic cabins are available for visitors seeking a more secluded and relaxing 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 experience ziplining for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding at Kamshet or Pawna offers aerial views of the Sahyadri hills.
Popular Trekking Spots Near Pawna Lake
The region around Pawna Lake is dotted with famous strongholds and picturesque 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:Designed in the form of a pyramid, Tikona offers wide views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding landscape.
*Visapur Fort:Known for its massive plateau and historic engravings 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 reveals legends of Maratha history and is a delight for history enthusiasts.
Temples and Heritage Spots Near Pawna
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are known for cultural heritage and devotional appeal.
•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 soothing historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A unique temple submerged under water for most of the year, visible during summer Pawna Lake months.
•Prati Pandharpur Temple:A tranquil replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Dudhiware Khind.
•Narayani Dham:A grand temple in Lonavala known for its design and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A revered shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Encircled with gardens and featuring family-friendly zones nearby.
Beautiful Spots and Lookouts Near Pawna
For those who seek scenic beauty, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide picture-perfect 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 popular monsoon destination known for its cascading water and picnic ambience.
•Duke’s Nose (Nagphani):Popular for trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing, this peak offers a exhilarating outdoor experience.
When to Visit Pawna Lake
While Pawna Lake is open for camping throughout the year, the most pleasant season is betweenOctober and March*. During this time, the skies are blue, the lake is full, and the surroundings are vibrant.
Winter mornings are often hazy, giving the area a mystical vibe, while evenings bring refreshing air perfect for Pawna Lake camping 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 reconnecting with nature. As dusk settles, the evening glow on the lake turns silver to gold, followed by night serenity. The distant sounds of crickets, the crackling campfire, and the still lake all create an atmosphere of rejuvenation.
Morning at the lake brings chirping birds, foggy slopes, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a serene morning meal.
Final Thoughts
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 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.