Pawna Lake
A serene artificial lake and dam, Pawna Lake is a popular camping and picnic spot offering stunning views and water activities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, misty hills
Pawna Lake
Best Time
Lush greenery, misty hills

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene artificial lake and dam, Pawna Lake is a popular camping and picnic spot offering stunning views and water activities.
"Such a peaceful and refreshing camping spot! The lake is absolutely beautiful, surrounded by stunning mountain views."
🎯 Check Campsite Toilets
Common toilets can be unhygienic; check reviews before booking. :toilet:
🚗 Good Roads, Some Climb
Roads are generally good, but expect a short climb to reach some campsites. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pawna Lake Views
Lakeside
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the serene lake, especially magical during sunrise and sunset.

Camping Under the Stars
Campsites around the lake
Enjoy a quintessential Pawna experience with overnight camping, bonfires, and stargazing.

Boating & Kayaking Adventures
Pawna Lake
Glide across the calm waters with boat rides or try kayaking for a refreshing perspective of the surroundings.

Glamping Escapes
Various Glamping sites
Indulge in luxurious stays with glamping options offering lake views and modern amenities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Campsite Wisely
Monsoon Magic & What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Campsite Toilets
Common toilets can be unhygienic; check reviews before booking. :toilet:
🚗 Good Roads, Some Climb
Roads are generally good, but expect a short climb to reach some campsites. :car:
🎒 Pack Dry Snacks
Food stalls are scarce; carry your own snacks as campsite food quality varies. :snack:
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunset over Pawna Lake is a must-watch spectacle. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Campsite Toilets
Common toilets can be unhygienic; check reviews before booking. :toilet:
🚗 Good Roads, Some Climb
Roads are generally good, but expect a short climb to reach some campsites. :car:
🎒 Pack Dry Snacks
Food stalls are scarce; carry your own snacks as campsite food quality varies. :snack:
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunset over Pawna Lake is a must-watch spectacle. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:
🏕️ Book Camps in Advance
Weekends and holidays get crowded and pricey; book your campsite early. :ticket:
💧 Monsoon Beauty
Visit during monsoon for stunning green landscapes and misty views. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pawna Lake is widely praised for its serene beauty, especially during monsoon, offering a peaceful escape with stunning lake and mountain views. Visitors enjoy camping, boating, and the tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation and nature connection. However, some find campsite food quality inconsistent and common facilities can be a concern.
"Such a peaceful and refreshing camping spot! The lake is absolutely beautiful, surrounded by stunning mountain views that make mornings and evenings magical. Perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Boating on the lake was an amazing experience — calm waters and breathtaking scenery all around. The atmosphere is quiet, clean, and very family-friendly. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway in the lap of nature!"
Rahul Raskar
"Best for Camp piece full place enjoy and relax. It is a very good place, you will get good roads to reach there, you may have to climb a little mountain, it is good for nature activities, you just have to find a good camp which is near the lake, you can also take a bath in it"
Aakash Sharma
"Absolutely worth visiting in the monsoon, especially if you're looking for a peaceful getaway as lesser crowd and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The vibrant green scenery, misty hills, and seasonal waterfalls create a unique and magical atmosphere that you need."
Ajeetesh Das
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pawna Lake is approximately 2 hours away from both Pune and Mumbai by road. You can drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi. Public transport options are limited, so a private car is recommended for convenience.
The main roads leading to Pawna Lake are generally well-maintained. However, some internal roads to campsites might be rough or unpaved, especially after heavy rains.
While there are many campsites, it's advisable to book in advance, especially for weekends, as they can get crowded and fully occupied.
Public transport is not the most convenient option. You might need to take a bus to Lonavala or Kamshet and then hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Pawna Lake.
Pawna Lake is located about 12-15 km from Lonavala, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway destination from the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entry fee for Pawna Lake itself. However, campsites and resorts around the lake will have their own charges for accommodation and activities.
Pawna Lake is accessible at all times, but campsites and resorts have specific check-in and check-out times, typically around 3 PM and 11 AM respectively.
Yes, booking campsites in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, to avoid disappointment and potential price surges.
No special permits are generally required for tourists to visit Pawna Lake. However, always check for any local advisories or regulations.
Camping costs can vary significantly based on the campsite, amenities, and inclusions. Prices can range from ₹1750 per person on weekdays to higher on weekends.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include camping, boating, kayaking, birdwatching, photography, and enjoying the scenic views. Some campsites offer games like badminton and archery.
Yes, Pawna Lake is considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful environment and various activities suitable for all ages.
Early mornings for mist and sunrise, and evenings for the stunning sunset are ideal for photography. The monsoon season also offers dramatic, lush green landscapes.
While not extensively developed for hiking, the surrounding hills offer opportunities for short treks and exploring the natural beauty.
You can find various options from basic tents and cottages to luxurious glamping sites and resorts with lake views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food stalls are limited. Many campsites offer meals, but the quality can vary. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and dry food.
Food quality at campsites can be inconsistent. Some offer good meals, while others might be a letdown. Research specific campsite reviews for dining.
There are very few standalone restaurants or dhabas directly at the lake. Most dining options are within the campsites or resorts.
Yes, many campsites offer bonfires, often accompanied by dinner or evening snacks, which can be a highlight of the camping experience.
Expect typical Indian camping fare, which may include BBQ, dinner, and breakfast. Some places offer Hi-tea as well.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakeside itself offers stunning views. Campsites with lakefront access and elevated viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Drone photography can capture the expansive beauty of the lake and surrounding hills. However, always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
The golden hours – early morning for mist and soft light, and late afternoon for sunset – offer the most dramatic and picturesque shots.
The misty monsoon mornings, the vibrant green landscapes, and the unique glamping accommodations offer distinct photographic subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant hills or wildlife. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When booking accommodation, look for campsites that explicitly mention family-friendly facilities and activities. Consider glamping options for added comfort and convenience, ensuring everyone has a pleasant stay. Remember to pack essentials and snacks, as food options can be limited.
💑 Couples Seeking Romance
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride together on the calm waters or simply relax by the lake, soaking in the natural beauty. The quiet ambiance makes it perfect for quality time and creating lasting memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
Traveling during weekdays can significantly reduce costs compared to weekends. Consider forming a group to share expenses for transportation and accommodation, making the trip more budget-friendly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping vs. Glamping at Pawna Lake
For those seeking more comfort without sacrificing the natural beauty, glamping has become a popular alternative. Glamping sites offer luxurious tents or cottages with amenities like private bathrooms, air conditioning, and comfortable bedding. These options often come with stunning lake views and a more curated experience, perfect for couples or families looking for a blend of nature and luxury.
When choosing, consider your budget, desired comfort level, and the type of experience you're seeking. Both camping and glamping offer unique ways to enjoy the serene environment of Pawna Lake.
Best Time to Visit for Different Experiences
Weekends are the most popular time, especially for visitors from Mumbai and Pune, offering a lively atmosphere with all activities operational. However, expect higher crowds and prices. For a more tranquil experience, weekday mornings are perfect, allowing you to enjoy the lake's serenity with minimal people around.
While camping is possible year-round, the post-monsoon period (October to February) offers pleasant weather, clear skies for stargazing, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. Avoid peak summer months if you prefer cooler weather.
Navigating Campsite Quality and Amenities
Amenities can range from basic tent stays with shared bathrooms to more equipped options with attached bathrooms, AC, and even private plunge pools in some glamping setups. Activities like boating, kayaking, bonfires, and outdoor games are commonly offered, but it's wise to confirm what's included in your package.
Food quality is another aspect that receives mixed reviews. While some campsites provide decent meals, others may not meet expectations. Carrying your own snacks and dry food is a practical tip to ensure you have sustenance, especially if you're particular about your meals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit