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Pawna Lake Camping – The Perfect Lakeside Getaway Near Lonavala

Nestled within the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is a truly picturesque and peaceful destinations. Situated close to the popular hill retreat of Lonavala, it has grown into 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, starry nights, and perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a solo traveller, a group of friends, or a family in search of a short escape from urban chaos, Pawna Lake offers an memorable lakeside camping experience.
Surrounded by ancient forts like Lohagad, Tikona, Tung, and Visapur, and close to notable landmarks such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a delight for outdoor and history lovers alike.
Reaching Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is well-connected from both Mumbai and Pune through various routes. Travellers can reach the lake by different modes of transport, making it one of the most connected natural getaways in Western India.
From Pune:
1.Via Kamshet (65 km)– Drive along the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, go through Somatne Toll Plaza, and turn left at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Head along the Pune–Paud Road, turn right at Paud Chowk, pass via 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, drive through 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)– Follow the Lonavala exit, go via 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, 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 setting of lush green hills and a shimmering waterbody, the campsites offer an perfect escape from daily stress. The soothing sounds of rippling water, the fresh air, and the view of the setting sun turning the lake golden create a enchanting ambience.
Guests can enjoy overnight stays in lakeside tents with options including evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm campfire under the night sky adds to the magical charm of Pawna nights.
Adventure and Leisure Activities 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:Enjoy authentic lakeside camping with well-maintained tents.
•Cottages:Cosy wooden stays are available for visitors seeking a more exclusive 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 great for short treks.
•Zipline:Adventure seekers can try 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 surrounded by famous strongholds and breathtaking 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 relatively easy trek, Lohagad is easy to reach.
*Tikona Fort:Designed in the form of a pyramid, Tikona offers panoramic 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 adventurous trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Situated near Aamby Valley, it gives a look of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort tells a unique story of Maratha history and is a delight for history enthusiasts.
Temples and Heritage Spots Near Pawna
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are rich in historic value and devotional appeal.
•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 rare temple submerged under water for most of the year, visible get more info 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 architecture 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.
Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions
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 must-visits for sunset lovers.
•Bhushi Dam:A famous 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 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 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.
The Lakeside Experience
A night at Pawna Lake is a soulful retreat — it’s about finding peace. As dusk settles, the reflection of the sunset on the lake turns silver to gold, followed by deep blue shades. The gentle night sounds, the crackling campfire, and the still lake all create an atmosphere of rejuvenation.
Morning at the lake brings calls of nature, mist-covered hills, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a lakeside breakfast.
In Summary
Pawna Lake camping blends nature, adventure, and serenity in one complete package. Its proximity to Pune and Mumbai makes it an ideal weekend getaway for those looking to unwind amidst nature. Whether it’s watching stars near the shore, trekking to ancient forts, or simply resting beside the calm waters, Pawna Lake offers moments to cherish forever. Report this wiki page