Pawna Lake Camping – The Perfect Lakeside Getaway Near Lonavala
Nestled among the serene Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and calming destinations. Just a short distance from the hill station of Lonavala, it has become a preferred weekend getaway for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and adjacent states. The appeal of Pawna Lake camping lies in its calm landscape, crystal waters, sparkling skies, and harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a single adventurer, a circle of buddies, or a family seeking a short escape from everyday routine, Pawna Lake offers an remarkable lakeside camping experience.
Encircled by historic forts like Lohagad, Tikona, Tung, and Visapur, and within reach of famous sites such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a paradise for nature and history lovers alike.
Ways to Get to Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is easily reachable from both Mumbai and Pune through multiple routes. Travellers can reach the lake by road, train, or even bike, making it one of the most visited 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)– Drive 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)– Use 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, get off at Lonavala, and head towards Kamshet and Pawananagar.
2.Via Lonavala Market (105 km)– Choose the Lonavala exit, pass 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, 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 peaceful vibe. Set against the backdrop of grassy mountains and a sparkling waterbody, the campsites offer an wonderful escape from city chaos. The soothing sounds of rippling water, the refreshing wind, and the view of the setting sun turning the lake golden create a mesmerising ambience.
Guests can enjoy night camping in lakeside tents with options including evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm campfire under the night sky adds to the unforgettable charm of Pawna nights.
Adventure and Leisure Activities at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is Pawna Lake camping 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 well-maintained 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 panoramic views of the Sahyadri hills.
Famous Trekking Points Near Pawna
The region around Pawna Lake is surrounded by famous strongholds and picturesque trails.
*Tung Fort:Also known as Kathingad, it stands 1075 m above sea level and offers a magnificent view of Pawna Dam.
*Lohagad Fort:A relatively easy trek, Lohagad is accessible by road.
*Tikona Fort:Designed in the form of a pyramid, Tikona offers wide views of Pawna Lake and the Pawna Lake surrounding landscape.
*Visapur Fort:Known for its massive plateau and historic engravings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more demanding trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Placed near Aamby Valley, it gives a glimpse of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort holds historic tales of Maratha history and is a delight for photography lovers.
Cultural and Spiritual Places Around Pawna Lake
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are rich in spiritual charm and religious importance.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves famous for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Hidden gem but equally captivating, offering a peaceful historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A rare temple submerged under water for most of the year, visible during summer months.
•Prati Pandharpur Temple:A tranquil replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Dudhiware Khind.
•Narayani Dham:A beautiful temple in Lonavala known for its structure 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 adventure activities nearby.
Top Sightseeing Points Around Pawna Lake
For those who love breathtaking landscapes, 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 favourites 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 brimming, and the surroundings are lush green.
Winter mornings are often misty, giving the area a ethereal vibe, while evenings bring chilly winds perfect for bonfires and lakeside music.
In contrast, the rainy season (June to September) adds a fresh layer of greenery, though some campsites may shut down 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 embracing tranquillity. As dusk settles, the evening glow on the lake creates golden ripples, followed by deep blue shades. The gentle night sounds, the glow of embers, and the quiet ripples all create an atmosphere of peace.
Morning at the lake brings birdsong, misty ridges, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters.
Conclusion
Pawna Lake camping brings together 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.