Pawna Lake Camping – A Tranquil Lakeside Retreat Close to Lonavala
Nestled among the majestic Sahyadri mountain ranges, Pawna Lake is one of Maharashtra’s most scenic and calming destinations. Just a short distance from the cool hillside town of Lonavala, it has grown into a favourite weekend spot for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and surrounding states. The appeal of Pawna Lake camping lies in its calm landscape, clear waters, sparkling skies, and harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a solo traveller, a team of travellers, or a family looking for a short escape from everyday routine, Pawna Lake offers an memorable lakeside camping experience.
Surrounded by ancient forts like Lohagad, Tikona, Tung, and Visapur, and near popular attractions such as Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, Pawna Lake is a delight for eco 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 road, train, or even bike, 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, pass 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, go straight from 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, go via Kadadhe and Pawananagar Chowk to reach the lake.
From Mumbai:
1.Via Kamshet (117 km)– Travel 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, disembark at Kamshet or Lonavala stations. From there, shared jeeps and local vehicles are available up to Pawananagar, followed by a short ride to the camping sites.
Why Travellers Love Pawna Lake Camping
The real charm of Pawna Lake camping lies in its serene aura. Set against the setting of lush green hills and a shimmering 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 wide variety of recreational and adventure activities suitable for Pawna Lake camping all age groups.
•Tent Camping:Try authentic lakeside camping with comfortable tents.
•Cottages:Wooden cottages 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 experience ziplining for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding at Kamshet or Pawna offers aerial views of the Sahyadri hills.
Famous Trekking Points Near Pawna
The region around Pawna Lake is surrounded by historic forts and stunning 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 beginner-friendly trek, Lohagad is suitable for all levels.
*Tikona Fort:Formed as a pyramid, Tikona offers panoramic 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 adventurous trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Located near Pawna Lake 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 filled with cultural heritage and devotional appeal.
•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves famous for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Quieter but equally captivating, offering a soothing 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 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:Set amidst gardens and featuring family-friendly zones nearby.
Beautiful Spots and Lookouts Near Pawna
For those who seek scenic beauty, several viewpoints near Pawna Lake provide postcard-perfect 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 well-known 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.
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 bright, the lake is replenished, and the surroundings are lush green.
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 remain closed due to muddy roads and heavy showers.
The Lakeside Experience
A night at Pawna Lake is a soulful retreat — it’s about reconnecting with nature. As dusk settles, the evening glow on the lake shimmers beautifully, followed by deep blue shades. The distant sounds of crickets, the warmth of the bonfire, and the still lake all create an atmosphere of rejuvenation.
Morning at the lake brings chirping birds, foggy slopes, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a serene morning meal.
Conclusion
Pawna Lake camping combines nature, adventure, and serenity in one balanced package. Its easy access from major cities 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 relaxing in a tent under the open sky, Pawna Lake offers memories that last a lifetime.