Camping Near Pune overview
Camping near Pune is the most serene experience if you want to take a break for yourself, and leave the sounds of the city behind and escape into nature. Camping near Pune offers you the gorgeous experience of not only camping in the midst of nature but also the opportunity to explore the Western Ghats and its hills, lakes, waterfalls, and rivers.
Although camping in Pune city is not an option, camping near Pune in the hills and valleys of the Sahyadris is a perfect getaway with friends and families. The top options for camping near Pune include Lonavala, Kolad and Bhandardara. All you need is camping gear and wonderful company, and you're good to go!
If you want your camping trip to be even more adventurous, then you can pair it with various adventure activities available near Pune such as rafting, trekking or even paragliding.
Itinerary
Most packages for camping near Pune include afternoon or evening check-in, followed by a relaxing day amidst nature. In the evening, there is a bonfire session with BBQ. At night, you retire into your tents after a filling dinner at the campsite. And you wake up in the morning to the gorgeous view of the sun rising over the hills of the Western Ghats. You then have breakfast and check-out of the campsite.
During your camping trip near Pune, you spend the night in weatherproof tents with comfort facilities like dry toilet tents with western commodes, mattresses, sleeping bags, blankets, light, etc. Do note that some budget operators do not provide sleeping bags or blankets for the night, so check the inclusions of the package you're booking properly.
Camping near Pune: Lonavala top
This campsite is located halfway up to Rajmachi Fort and overlooking a gorgeous valley on one side and towering hills of Sahyadris on the other. This campsite is especially pretty during the monsoon season as the landscape gets filled with waterfalls, streams, natural ponds, etc. and you get to enjoy the splendid views of the massive clouds caught up between the hills of the Western Ghats.
There are also various adventure activities in Lonavala that you can pair with your camping trip.
Camping near Pune: Pawna Lake
This is another campsite that is close to Pune, on the banks of Pawna Lake. This campsite offers gorgeous views of the lake and the surrounding hills of Sahyadris. Here, you get to spend some time relaxing at the lake side and you wake up to the misty mornings at the lakeside. This campsite is a great option if you want to go camping in the summer season as it offers a cool and relaxing escape from the city heat.
Camping near Pune: Kolad with rafting
Camping and rafting in Kolad is a great option for those looking for some extra thrill while camping as most packages for camping in Kolad also include a rafting session on the Kundalika River. What once was a small fishing village has now transformed into an adventure hub for city-dwellers. Here, you get to camp at night near the banks of the Kundalika River and in the morning, you get to battle the Grade II and III rapids of the river. There are also other adventure activities at Kolad like kayaking, bungee jumping, ziplining, etc. Kolad also offers a variety of accommodation options from alpine tents, swiss tents, cottages to tree houses.
Camping near Pune: Sandhan Valley
If you're looking for some adventure while camping near Pune, then camping in Sandhan Valley is the right choice for you. The packages for camping in Sandhan Valley also include trekking and rappelling. This campsite is located in the water-carved Sandhan Valley of the Western Ghats which is 200 feet deep and 1.5 km long. The camping trip in Sandhan Valley takes you over cliffs, narrow passageways and huge boulders.
Camping near Pune: Kashid beach
This a beach camping spot near Pune. While camping on Kashid Beach, you get to spend the day relaxing on the beach and you sleep with the sound of waves in your ears. In the morning, you can go swimming or fishing in the sea or just take a stroll on the beach before checking out of the campsite.
Fireflies camping near Pune
During the onset of monsoon, for a short window of time, the Western Ghats get swarmed with thousands of fireflies, lighting up the dark forests with their serene glow. This short time-frame is their mating season. During these few weeks, the fireflies come abuzz in the evening and begin their mating ritual.Witnessing this gorgeous phenomenon is a mesmerizing experience, and hence, every year hundreds of nature enthusiasts flock to the folds of Sahyadris for this. There are many sites around Pune for the fireflies camping trips, e.g. Rajmachi Fort, Bhandardara, Kondana Caves, etc.
During the fireflies camping trips, the day begins with checking-in at the campsite, followed by a short trek in the evening to the forests where you get to watch numerous fireflies buzzing all around you. You then head to the campsite for a night in cosy tents. In the morning, you head back to your city with memories of a lifetime.
Do note that the fireflies camping near Pune only takes place for a short period of a few weeks during the onset of monsoon as it is the only time when they can be spotted in the Western Ghats.
Best season for camping near Pune
Camping near Pune is a wonderful experience throughout the year, especially during monsoon and winter. During the months of monsoon, the landscape transforms into a lush green paradise with many streams, ponds, waterfalls, etc. It is a perfect season for those wanting to explore the lush greenery of the Western Ghats in its full glory.
In the months of winter, the experience of splendid as you spend the cold nights huddled in tents and wake up to the gorgeous views of mist rolling through the landscape. Summer is a great season too but it is recommended that you go camping near a water-body as the climate there is relatively cool.
Packing list
While camping near Pune, the tour operator will provide all the camping equipment like tents, mattresses, blankets, etc. However, it is recommended that you check the inclusions of the trip you're booking thoroughly as some budget operators do not provide sleeping bags and blankets for the night.
Apart from this, you should carry all your personal essentials like backpack, shoes, personal med kit and toiletries, sunglasses, sun-cap, etc. You need to carry an extra pair of comfortable clothes including full sleeve t-shirts and full length pants for the night. Also carry a mosquito repellent as they can be a nuisance in the Western Ghats.
Getting there
Pune is connected to all the neighbouring towns and villages by a network of rail and roads. You can either take a train to the nearest village of the campsite or you can take a bus to get there. If your campsite is in Lonavala, then you can take a local from Pune that runs at an interval of 2 hours. You can even hire taxi from Pune itself to reach there or drive your own car as the roads are scenic, especially during the monsoon months.
Treks near Pune
While camping near Pune, you can easily pair your camping trip with various treks, including some of the best treks in Maharashtra. There are many trekking routes in the vicinity, for trekkers of all experience, from beginners to experienced. Here are a few of the treks that you can do while camping near Pune:
Kalsubai trek
At an elevation of 5,400 feet, the Kalsubai Peak is the highest peak in Maharashtra. It is an exciting trek suitable for experienced trekkers, but fit beginners can also do this trek. It offers panoramic views of the vast green vistas of the Western Ghats including forts like Alang-Madan-Kulang, Ratangad, Harishchandragad, etc.
Andharban
This is an off-beat trek where you descend into a forest, unlike other treks of Maharashtra where you climb atop a hill. The trek goes through a dark forest where little sunlight can penetrate. You get to explore the flora and fauna of Sahyadris along with natural ponds, waterfalls, streams, etc.
Harishchandragad
If you're feeling a bit adventurous and already have prior trekking experience then you can summit the historic fort of Harishchandragad. The trek is challenging, requiring you to scramble over boulders, cross slippery terrain, and some steep sections with scary drops on the side. But conquering this hill gives a feeling like no other.
Lohagad
If you're a beginner, or are just looking for a relaxing trek, then you can head to Lohagad, the historic iron fort once used by Shivaji. The trek to the fort is pleasant and gives gorgeous views of the surrounding region, along with an experience of trekking in the Sahyadris.
Camping in Pune Trip Summary
- State:Maharashtra
- Nearest city: Pune
- Total days: 2
- Grade: Easy
- Season: Year round
- Avg temperature: 15 to 37 degree Celsius
Camping near Pune Trip Gallery
Camping near Pune
Sketch itinerary:
Day 1: Check-in at the campsite and enjoy
- Check-in at the campsite in the afternoon or evening
- Spend the rest of the day relaxing at the campsite
- Sit around a bonfire at night
- Spend the night in tents
Day 2: Check-out of the campsite
- Wake up to a gorgeous sunrise
- Relax at the campsite or try out some adventure activities
- Check-out of the campsite by afternoon
Detailed itinerary:
Day 1: Check-in at the campsite and enjoy
Arrive at the campsite at the given time where your tent will be allotted to you. Post that, you can spend the rest of the day either relaxing at the campsite or exploring the surrounding region. At night, you'll sleep in tents pitched at scenic locations.
Day 2:
You'll wake up to a gorgeous sunrise over the Sahyadris after which you can head out to do some adventure activities. You'll return to the campsite, freshen up and then check-out at the given time. The trip ends here.
Inclusions:
The package includes accommodation for 1 night in tents on twin-sharing basis, along with in-tent amenities like mattress, light, and access to common washroom tents. Along with this, the cost includes meals, dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2. The package also includes outdoor activities like swimming and fishing, and equipment required for the same, along with a bonfire session in the evening, subject to weather conditions. Services of a camp leader and support crew is also included in the cost. All applicable taxes are also included in the package cost.
Exclusions:
For an additional cost of INR 400 per plate, BBQ snacks can be arranged at the campsite in both veg and non-veg options. The camping near Pune cost does not include travel arrangements from your home-city to the campsite and back. The price neither includes any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, strikes, etc.; nor does it include any personal expenses like extra meals, alcohol, gear, etc. It also does not include anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Camping near Pune: Lonavala
Camping near Pune: Khopoli
Camping near Pune: Fort camping
Camping near Pune: Kolad camping plus rafting
Sketch itinerary:
Day 1: Check-in at the campsite
- Check-in time: 15:00 hrs
- Spend the day at leisure
- Meals provided: Dinner
- Overnight stay: Cottage
Day 2: Go rafting and check-out of the campsite
- Rafting distance: 12 km
- Rafting duration 3 hours
- Meals provided: Breakfast and lunch
- Check-out time: 15:00 hr
Detailed itinerary:
Day 1:
Today, you'll check in at the campsite in the afternoon and then enjoy the day relaxing at the campsite. In the evening, there will also be a bonfire session with BBQ, followed by dinner.. Post the bonfire session you can decide to spend the rest of the evening the way you want before retiring to your cottage to sleep for the rest of the night. You can spend the evening by the riverside enjoying the cool breeze or sit by the fire and read a book or play games with your friends or family.
Day 2:
Today, you'll wake up early for a light breakfast and head to the rafting start point for your rafting session on the Kundalika river. After battling Grade II and III rapids, you'll return to the campsite. You can freshen up at the campsite in temporary washroom facilities and head for a filling lunch. Post this you check-out of the campsite.
Inclusions:
As part of the package, accommodation will be provided in non-AC cottages for 1 night on twin or triple-sharing basis along with buffet meals, veg and non-veg, from evening snacks on Day 1 to lunch on Day 2. At an additional cost of INR 500 per night, air-con can be arranged in the cottage.
The price also includes one 12-km rafting session on the Kundalika River. The operator will also provide all the rafting equipment required such as life jackets, helmets, paddles, rafts, etc. The cost includes services of experienced rafting instructor and campsite staff, ensuring a safe and enjoyable rafting experience. All applicable taxes are also included in the price.
Exclusions:
The price does not include any kind of travel between your home-city and campsite. It neither includes any travel arrangements from the campsite to start point of rafting, and from end-point back to the campsite. But this can be arranged for an additional cost of INR 800-1000 for a tumtum which can be shared by 8-10 people. At an additional cost of INR 500 per night, AC can be arranged in the cottage.
There are various adventure activities at the campsite like kayaking, river crossing, zip lining, etc. which can be arranged for an additional cost of INR 500 per person.
The package cost does not include any kind of personal expenses such as extra meals, tips, beverages, etc. Neither does it include any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, etc. Insurance is also not included. Anything not mentioned in the inclusions will be additional and not covered.
Camping near Pune : Kamshet
Camping near Pune : Alibaug beach camping
Camping near Pune: Panshet
Camping and trek to Sandhan Valley
Sketch itinerary:
Day 1: Kasara to Sandhan Valley
- Trekking distance: 7 km
- Trekking duration: 8 hrs
- Overnight stay in tents at Sandhan Valley
Day 2: Trek to Dehene
- Trekking distance: 7 km
- Trekking duration 8 hrs
- Trek to Dehne Village
- End of the trip
Detailed itinerary:
Day 1: Kasara to Sandhan Valley
Report to the Kasara railway station by 1:30 hrs and meet your trek leader. You then head to the base village. There, you have breakfast and begin your trek to Sandhan Valley, reaching there by noon. In the evening, you pitch your tent at a suitable location and rest for the day. Overnight in tents in Sandhan Valley.
Today, after an early breakfast, you begin your trek back to the base village of Dehne. You will be reaching there by noon. From here you will then continue to Asangaon railway station and catch the train back to Pune. Your trip ends here.
Inclusions:
The package cost includes transportation from Kasara to the base village and then from the base village to Asangaon via local transport. Meals consisting of breakfast and dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2 are also included. For the night, you will be given accommodation in tents the same is included in the cost. All camping and cooking equipment required will be arranged by the operator and are included in the package costs.
Additionally, the services of an experienced trekking leader and support crew are also included along with all applicable taxes. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking and camping experience. All prices are inclusive of taxes.
Exclusions:
Please note that any expenses arising out of unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, road blocks, etc. are not included and will be additional and communicated to you as per the situation and if any rescue measures are involved under unforeseen circumstances, the costs will have to be borne by you and will not be included in the package costs. The cost does not include anything that is not mentioned in the inclusions.
Best time to go/Weather
You can go camping near Pune all year around, but usually, winter is the best time to go. During winter, the days are cool and the nights are chilly, providing perfect conditions for camping. Monsoon too is gaining popularity recently as the landscape during this season transforms into an amphitheatre of greenery.
Camping during summer is also a great idea but it is recommended that you go camping near a water body like a beach or lake-side destination as the weather will be cooler there near water bodies.
Camping near Pune Trip Videos
Getting there
All the campsite destinations around Pune are easily accessible either by road or rail. The rail and road network around Pune is well developed with many regular trains connecting Pune to surrounding towns and villages. You can either take a train or state run bus to reach the nearest village to the campsite and from there, you can take local transport to the campsite. Driving your own car is also a good option as it doesn't require you to rely on local transport.
What to wear
While camping, clothing is important to make sure you have a comfortable experience. You need to choose what you wear according to the season. If you're going during summer, than basic comfortable clothes will do. For monsoon, you need to carry rain wear along with an extra jacket as the nights can be a bit chilly. For winters, you need to carry thermals and sweaters. It is a good idea to wear closed shoes, full pants and full-sleeve t-shirts to avoid mosquito bites, as they can be quite a nuisance at night.
What to carry
Your tour operator will provide all the camping equipment. However, some budget operators might expect you to carry your own blankets and sleeping bags. Other than this, you need not worry about any equipment. You only need to carry a good backpack, personal essentials like toiletries, medicines, shoes and appropriate clothes, sunglasses, caps, etc. It is recommended that you also carry a mosquito repellent cream for the night to avoid annoying mosquito bites.
Preparation/Fitness
There are no fitness requirements for the camping near Pune. However, do note that some campsites are located at a short walk's distance from the parking lot, so check the camping package properly before booking if you have someone in your group who might find it difficult to cover the distance on foot.
FAQs about Camping near Pune
What else can I do during my camping trip near Pune?
Depending on where you're going, you can pair your camping trip with various adventure activities. For instance, Kolad has various adventure activities like rafting and bungee jumping and Lonavala also has a number of trekking options.
What is the best season for camping near Pune?
There are a variety of campsites around Pune from beach-side campsites to forest campsites, offering a year round camping options. The best season for camping near Pune is winter when the days are cool and the nights are chilly. Monsoon too is a great option for camping near Pune, when the landscape transforms into a lush paradise. Summer too is a good option, however, due to the hot and humid weather, it is recommended that you choose a beach/lake-side camping destination for this season.
What should I carry for camping near Pune?
The tour operator will provide all the camping equipment except some budget operators who expect you to carry your own blankets and sleeping bags. Other than this, you need to carry all your personal essentials, along with a backpack, comfortable and weather appropriate clothes, etc. for the trip.
How do I reach my campsite?
Pune and the surrounding towns and villages are well connected to each other by a network of rail as well as road. You can reach the nearest village/town to the campsite by state run bus or train and then you can avail a local transport like an auto or tumtum to reach the campsite. However, it is best to use your own vehicle so you won't need to rely on local transport. Many taxi operators like Uber and Ola have also started offering outstation ride services which you can use.
What is the minimum/maximum age restrictions for camping near Pune?
None. Camping near Pune is completely suitable for families with children and senior citizens. However, there are some campsites that are located at a distance from parking spots which can be hard to cover for the elderly. So it is recommended that you check the package thoroughly before booking if you have someone who might find it hard to cover the distance.
Top Camping trips near Pune
- One night stay in waterproof Coleman tents on twin-sharing basis
- In-tent amenities: Foam mats and solar lights
- Dry toilet tents with commodes, toilet tents, and hand sanitizer
- Dinner (veg/non-veg) on Day 1
- Breakfast on Day 2
- Campfire at night
- All applicable taxes
- Travel arrangements from your home to campsite
- Parking charges at campsite
- Any meals not mentioned in inclusions (can be ordered a la carte)
- No outside food/drinks allowed
- Personal expenses like extra snacks, beverages, tips, gear, etc
- Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, road blocks, etc.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
You can also choose to pay for and participate in activities like Burma Bridge, rock climbing, rappelling, archery and rifle shooting. In the night, when it grows cold, bundle up in warm clothes and sit on your private sit-out and admire the views, or get together around a campfire.
Please note: alcohol is not allowed at this campsite.
- Accommodation in Swiss tents on 7 sharing basis
- Cots, mattresses, blankets and bed linen
- All meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 2
- One session each of kayaking, river swim, river crossing
- Filtered and UV-treated water for drinking
- Non-vegetarian food (can be arranged for an additional INR 200 per person per meal, payable on location)
- Extra meals for drivers, attendants, additional guests
- Cold drinks, dry snacks etc.
- Any meals or services not mentioned in inclusions
- Any transport to and from the campsite
- Personal or medical insurance
IMPORTANT: You can drive up to this campsite, if you have an SUV or a car without high ground clearance. Sedans will not be able to make it up. You can also combine this trip with a 7 km trek from Lonavala, if your group is up to it.
- Overnight stay in tents with foam mattresses and light
- Use of dry toilet tents
- All meals from evening tea and snacks, veg/non-veg barbeque and dinner on Day 1 to morning tea and breakfast on Day 2
- Bonfire
- Mineral bottled water
- Welcome drink on arrival
- Parking charges
- Any pick-up and drop from Lonavala (can be arranged for INR 800 per Tata Sumo, covers 7 pax)
- Any meals other than those mentioned in inclusions
- Beverages, soft drinks, snacks
- Other adventure activities (can be arranged for groups of over 10, waterfall rappelling at INR 500 per person, Flying Fox at INR 400 per person)
- Sleeping bags or bed linen
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