Pawna Lake Camping – A Tranquil Lakeside Retreat Close to Lonavala
Nestled among the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain ranges, Pawna Lake is one of Maharashtra’s most scenic and peaceful destinations. Situated close to the popular hill retreat of Lonavala, it has grown into a beloved weekend destination for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and adjacent states. The beauty of Pawna Lake camping lies in its serene surroundings, clear waters, starry nights, and ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a lone explorer, a team of travellers, or a family in search of a short escape from everyday routine, Pawna Lake offers an remarkable lakeside camping experience.
Bordered by legendary strongholds 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 outdoor and history lovers alike.
Reaching 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)– Drive along 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)– Follow 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)– Travel via Vashi on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, exit at Lonavala, and head towards Kamshet and Pawananagar.
2.Via Lonavala Market (105 km)– Choose 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, 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 backdrop of grassy mountains and a sparkling waterbody, the campsites offer an perfect escape from urban noise. The soft rhythm of the lake, the fresh air, and the view of the setting sun turning the lake golden create a enchanting ambience.
Guests can enjoy evening retreats in lakeside tents with packages that include evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm firepit under the twinkling stars 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 diverse range 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 spacious 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 ideal 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.
Top Fort Treks Around Pawna Lake
The region around Pawna Lake is surrounded by historic forts and picturesque trails.
*Tung Fort:Also known as Kathingad, it stands 1075 m above sea level and offers a superb view of Pawna Dam.
*Lohagad Fort:A relatively easy trek, Lohagad is suitable for all levels.
*Tikona Fort:Formed as Pawna Lake a pyramid, Tikona offers panoramic views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding landscape.
*Visapur Fort:Known for its sprawling summit and ancient carvings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more adventurous trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Located 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 photography lovers.
Cultural and Spiritual Places Around Pawna Lake
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 remarkable 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 grand temple in Lonavala known for its design and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A highly respected shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Surrounded by gardens and featuring recreational spaces nearby.
Top Sightseeing Points Around Pawna Lake
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 favourites for sunset lovers.
•Bhushi Dam:A popular monsoon destination known for its flowing charm and picnic ambience.
•Duke’s Nose (Nagphani):Popular for trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing, this peak offers a exciting 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 blue, the lake is brimming, and the surroundings are lush green.
Winter mornings are often foggy, giving the area a mystical 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 remain closed due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
The Lakeside Experience
A night at Pawna Lake is beyond simple stay — it’s about finding peace. As dusk settles, the dying light on the lake shimmers beautifully, followed by starry calm. The distant sounds of crickets, the glow of embers, and the still lake all create an atmosphere of peace.
Morning at the lake brings calls of nature, misty ridges, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a lakeside breakfast.
In Summary
Pawna Lake camping brings together nature, adventure, and serenity in one balanced package. Its location near Pune and Mumbai makes it an top-rated 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 moments to cherish forever.