Camping at Pawna lake is the most serene experience if you want a break from the city for a short while. Thanks to its proximity to Mumbai and Pune, Pawna lake camping is a perfect casual getaway with friends or family. All you need is your camping gear and some great company, and you’re good to go!
Camping at Pawna lake
The spot for Pawna lake camping is located right on the banks with the perennial lake on three sides, giving you beautiful views at any time of the day. While the campsite turns lush green during the monsoon, it is also gorgeous during the winter months, when the mist descends on the lake in the early morning and there's a nip in the air at night.
Facilities for camping at Pawna lake
You'll camp in weather-proof tents with foam mats to ensure you get a good night's sleep, with comfort facilities like dry toilet tents with Western commodes. The meals are delicious, and there's plenty to do and explore. But if you just want to lie back on a hammock and admire the lake, that's fine too.
Most packages for camping at Pawna lake include an afternoon or evening check-in, an easy day of fun in the midst of nature, and a bonfire and barbecue session before dinner. After that, you’ll retire for the night to your tents. In the morning, you’ll awake to wonderful misty views and fresh clean air. After a hot cup of tea and breakfast, your trip ends.
What to carry for Pawna lake camping
If you book an operator to arrange a Pawna lake camping trip for you, you don’t really need to carry any equipment. You should carry extra blankets if the weather is cold, and make sure you have insect repellent, sunscreen, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and your personal medicines.
Best season for Pawna lake camping
Winter is usually the best time for camping at Pawna lake. The weather is cool during the day, and the nights get wonderfully chilly. It’s a good idea to carry extra warm clothes and blankets during this season. However, during the summer and spring months, camping at Pawna lake, especially as you only check-in in the evening.
Reaching Pawna Lake
Pawna lake is located near Lonavala which is a popular weekend getaway for people living in Mumbai and Pune. Hence, it is well connected to both the cities and you can either take a train to reach Lonavala or a bus. There are local trains running at 2-hour intervals from Pune, and if you're coming from Mumbai, then you can take a train heading towards Pune. If you want you can even drive to Lonavala as the road is quite scenic. If you're getting your own car, then you can use the Mumbai-Pune expressway and if you're getting your own motorcycle, then you should use the old Mumbai-Goa highway as bikes are not allowed on the expressway.
Treks near Pawna Lake
While camping at Pawna Lake, you can combine your camping trip with a trek to the nearby hills. There are many treks in and around Lonavala which can be done in half a day and they let you explore the gorgeous landscape of Lonavala in its full glory. Here is a shortlist of treks that you can do during your Pawna camping trip:
Tung Fort Trek:
The Tung fort is located close to Pawna Dam and the trail is relatively easy, so even beginners can do this trek. It is located at an elevation of 3,527 feet. From the top of the fort, you'll get to enjoy the gorgeous views of the surrounding forts like Lohagad, Visapur, Korigad, etc. along with the Pawna Dam. Some operators even offer rappelling at the Tung Fort at a nearby waterfall during the trek.
Lohagad Fort trek:
The Lohagad fort is located deep within the jungles of Sahyadris and is also known as the Iron Fort. It was once a formidable battle station used by Shivaji. The trail is fairly easy and the trek treats you to the splendid beauty of the forests, and the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Tikona Fort trek:
Located at an altitude of 3500 feet, the Tikona Fort gets its name from the triangular mountain atop which it sits. The trek leads through forests and ridges with the valley on both sides. There are also some caves at the fort and you enjoy gorgeous views of the Pawna Lake, Visapur and Lohagad from top
Check out more trekking options in Lonavala.
Rappelling near Pawna Lake: Dudhiware Waterfall
If you're looking for some extra thrill during your camping trip to Pawna Lake, then you can head out to Dudhiware which is located near the lake and engage in a rappelling session at the waterfall. This moderately difficult activity is suitable for adventure enthusiasts and fit beginners.
Check out more rappelling options in Maharashtra.
Camping in Pawna Trip Summary
- State: Maharashtra
- Nearest city: Pune
- Total days: 2
- Grade: Easy
- Max altitude: 1991 feet
- Season: Winter and monsoon
- Avg temperature: 15-35 degrees Celsius