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 hill station of Lonavala, it has grown into a beloved weekend destination for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and adjacent states. The appeal of Pawna Lake camping lies in its peaceful environment, 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 urban chaos, Pawna Lake offers an memorable lakeside camping experience.
Encircled by legendary strongholds like Lohagad, Tikona, Tung, and Visapur, and close to popular attractions such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a paradise for outdoor and history lovers alike.
Reaching Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake is easily reachable from both Mumbai and Pune through various 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)– Follow the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, go through Somatne Toll Plaza, and take a left turn at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Drive 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)– Travel via Vashi on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, take 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 proceed 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.
Reasons Pawna Lake Attracts Campers
The real charm 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 urban noise. The soothing sounds of rippling water, the cool breeze, and the view of the setting sun turning the lake golden create a mesmerising ambience.
Guests can enjoy overnight stays in lakeside tents with packages that include evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm campfire under the night sky adds to the soothing 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:Enjoy authentic lakeside camping with comfortable tents.
•Cottages:Cosy wooden stays are available for visitors seeking a more private and spacious 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 experience 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 surrounded by 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 moderate trek, Lohagad is suitable for all levels.
*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 vast fortification and ancient carvings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more challenging trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Placed near Aamby Valley, it gives a look of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort holds historic tales of Maratha history and is a delight for history enthusiasts.
Cultural and Spiritual Places Around Pawna Lake
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are rich Pawna Lake camping in 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 rare temple submerged under Pawna Lake water for most of the year, visible during summer months.
•Prati Pandharpur Temple:A serene replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Dudhiware Khind.
•Narayani Dham:A grand temple in Lonavala known for its structure and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A highly respected shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Encircled with gardens and featuring adventure activities nearby.
Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions
For those who seek scenic beauty, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide mesmerising scenes.
•Lion’s Point and Tiger Point, Lonavala:Offering stunning views of valleys and mountains, these spots are must-visits for sunset lovers.
•Bhushi Dam:A famous 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 exhilarating outdoor experience.
Ideal Season for Pawna Camping
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 foggy, giving the area a ethereal vibe, while evenings bring refreshing air perfect for bonfires and lakeside music.
In contrast, the rainy season (June to September) adds a fresh layer of greenery, though some campsites remain closed due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
What Makes Pawna Lake Special
A night at Pawna Lake is beyond simple stay — it’s about reconnecting with nature. 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, foggy slopes, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters.
In Summary
Pawna Lake camping brings together nature, adventure, and serenity in one perfect package. Its proximity to Pune and Mumbai makes it an top-rated weekend getaway for those seeking relaxation amidst nature. Whether it’s stargazing by the lakeside, trekking to ancient forts, or simply enjoying lakeside tranquillity, Pawna Lake offers memories that last a lifetime.