The Blog on Pawna Lake

Pawna Lake Camping – The Perfect Lakeside Getaway Near Lonavala

Nestled within the breathtaking Sahyadri mountain belt, Pawna Lake is an incredibly serene and tranquil destinations. Situated close to the popular hill retreat of Lonavala, it has grown into a beloved weekend spot for travellers from Pune, Mumbai, and neighbouring states. The appeal of Pawna Lake camping lies in its peaceful environment, glittering lake, sparkling skies, and harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a single adventurer, a group of friends, or a family seeking a short escape from urban chaos, Pawna Lake offers an memorable lakeside camping experience.

Bordered 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 haven for outdoor and history lovers alike.

How to Reach Pawna Lake

Pawna Lake is conveniently accessible from both Mumbai and Pune through several routes. Travellers can reach the lake by different modes of transport, making it one of the most accessible natural getaways in Western India.

From Pune:

1.Via Kamshet (65 km)– Take 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, exit 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, travellers’ jeeps and local transport are available up to Pawananagar, followed by a short ride to the camping sites.

Reasons Pawna Lake Attracts Campers

The true essence of Pawna Lake camping lies in its tranquil atmosphere. Set against the view of verdant slopes and a glistening waterbody, the campsites offer an wonderful escape from city chaos. The soothing sounds of rippling water, the refreshing wind, and the view of the setting sun turning the lake golden create a mesmerising ambience.

Guests can enjoy night camping in lakeside tents with packages that include evening snacks, barbecue, dinner, and breakfast. A warm campfire under the night sky 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 all age groups.

•Tent Camping:Enjoy authentic lakeside camping with well-maintained tents.
•Cottages:Rustic cabins 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 great for short treks.
•Zipline:Adventure seekers can try ziplining Pawna Lake for a thrilling experience.
•Paragliding:Tandem paragliding at Kamshet or Pawna offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri hills.

Popular Trekking Spots Near Pawna Lake

The region around Pawna Lake is home to 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 relatively easy trek, Lohagad is accessible by road.
*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 demanding trek.
*Koraigad Fort:Placed near Aamby Valley, it gives a view of Mulshi Reservoir and lush forest cover.

Each fort reveals Pawna Lake legends of Maratha history and is a delight for history enthusiasts.

Temples and Heritage Spots Near Pawna

The surroundings of Pawna Lake are known for spiritual charm and spiritual significance.

•Karla and Bhaje Caves:Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves admired for their intricate carvings and nearby waterfalls.
•Bedse Caves:Less crowded but equally captivating, offering a calm historical experience.
•Wagheshwar Temple:A unique 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 beautiful temple in Lonavala known for its structure and tranquil gardens.
•Ekvira Temple:A revered shrine near Karla Caves dedicated to Goddess Ekvira Aai.
•Satya Sai Baba Temple, Hadshi:Set amidst gardens and featuring adventure activities nearby.

Top Sightseeing Points Around Pawna Lake

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 well-known 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.

Ideal Season for Pawna Camping

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 brimming, and the surroundings are fresh.
Winter mornings are often foggy, giving the area a dreamy 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 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 reflection of the sunset on the lake shimmers beautifully, followed by night serenity. The whispers of nature, the warmth of the bonfire, and the still lake all create an atmosphere of peace.

Morning at the lake brings calls of nature, mist-covered hills, and the aroma of tea as campers enjoy a serene morning meal.

Conclusion

Pawna Lake camping combines nature, adventure, and serenity in one perfect package. Its easy access from major cities makes it an excellent weekend getaway for those wanting a break amidst nature. Whether it’s admiring the night sky, trekking to ancient forts, or simply relaxing in a tent under the open sky, Pawna Lake offers moments to cherish forever.