Pawna Lake Camping – A Tranquil Lakeside Retreat Close to Lonavala
Nestled among the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is one of Maharashtra’s most scenic and peaceful destinations. Situated close to the cool hillside town of Lonavala, it has become a favourite weekend destination for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and adjacent states. The beauty 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 eco 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)– Take the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, pass Somatne Toll Plaza, and turn left at Kamshet towards Pawananagar.
2.Via Paud (52 km)– Travel 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)– Take the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway, turn 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)– Take the Lonavala exit, go via Lonavala town and Dudhiware Khind, and continue 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 tranquil atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of lush green hills and a glistening waterbody, the campsites offer an ideal 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 night camping in lakeside tents with offers featuring evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm firepit under the night sky adds to the soothing charm of Pawna nights.
Things to Do 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:Enjoy authentic lakeside camping with well-maintained tents.
•Cottages:Wooden cottages are available for visitors seeking a more secluded 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 perfect 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 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 Pawna Lake its vast fortification and ancient carvings of Lord Hanuman, it provides a more challenging trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Located near Aamby Valley, it gives a glimpse of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.
Each fort reveals legends of Maratha history and is a delight for photography lovers.
Cultural and Spiritual Places Around Pawna Lake
The surroundings of Pawna Lake are known for cultural heritage and spiritual significance.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves admired for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Hidden gem but equally captivating, offering a calm historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A rare temple submerged under water for most of the year, visible during summer months.
•Prati Pandharpur Temple:A serene replica of the Pandharpur Temple situated near Pawna Lake camping 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 recreational spaces nearby.
Scenic Viewpoints and Attractions
For those who love breathtaking landscapes, 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 favourites 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 thrilling outdoor experience.
When to Visit Pawna Lake
While Pawna Lake is open for camping throughout the year, the most comfortable season is betweenOctober and March*. During this time, the skies are bright, the lake is full, and the surroundings are fresh.
Winter mornings are often misty, 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 may shut down due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
Pawna Lake 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 turns silver to gold, followed by night serenity. The gentle night sounds, 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 combines nature, adventure, and serenity in one complete package. Its easy access from major cities makes it an ideal weekend getaway for those wanting a break 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.