Pawna Lake Camping – A Tranquil Lakeside Retreat Close to Lonavala
Nestled among the serene Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and peaceful destinations. Located near the popular hill retreat of Lonavala, it has grown into a beloved weekend destination for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and surrounding states. The charm of Pawna Lake camping lies in its calm landscape, 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 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)– Use 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)– 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, travellers’ jeeps and local transport are available up to Pawananagar, followed by a short ride to the camping sites.
Why Travellers Love Pawna Lake Camping
The main attraction of Pawna Lake camping lies in its peaceful vibe. Set against the setting of verdant slopes and a sparkling waterbody, the campsites offer an perfect escape from city chaos. The gentle lapping of waves, the fresh air, and the sight of the sunset turning the lake golden create a captivating ambience.
Guests can enjoy overnight stays in lakeside tents with packages that include evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm campfire under the starlit sky adds to the unforgettable charm of Pawna nights.
Adventure and Leisure Activities at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is not only a camping destination — it offers a good mix of recreational and adventure activities suitable for all age groups.
•Tent Camping:Try authentic lakeside camping with comfortable tents.
•Cottages:Cosy wooden stays are available for visitors seeking a more secluded and comfortable 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 try 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 home to 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 sprawling summit and historic engravings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more demanding trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Situated near Aamby Valley, Pawna Lake camping it gives a view of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort holds historic tales of Maratha history and is a delight for explorers.
Historic and Religious Sites Near Pawna Lake
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are filled with 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 calm historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A unique temple submerged under water for most of the Pawna Lake camping year, visible during summer months.
•Prati Pandharpur Temple:A tranquil replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Dudhiware Khind.
•Narayani Dham:A majestic temple in Lonavala known for its design 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 family-friendly zones nearby.
Top Sightseeing Points Around Pawna Lake
For those who enjoy natural vistas, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide picture-perfect scenes.
•Lion’s Point and Tiger Point, Lonavala:Offering panoramic views of valleys and mountains, these spots are essential stops for sunset lovers.
•Bhushi Dam:A popular 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.
Best Time 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 bright, the lake is full, and the surroundings are lush green.
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 pause operations 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, mist-covered hills, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a serene morning meal.
Final Thoughts
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.