Top Camping Places In Pune For Nature Enthusiasts

Camping tents located on a hill among the trees with the city lights behind them at night

Camping places in Pune offer an incredible opportunity for people to escape city life and connect with nature. Located just 50 to 80 km from the main cities, popular spots in the Pune district include Pawna Lake, Rajmachi Fort, and Bhatghar Dam. These sites offer stunning views of the Western Ghats, lush greenery, and serene water bodies, making them ideal for relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy trekking, birdwatching, and bonfires under the stars. Explore the wonderful outdoors and create lasting memories with friends and family.

Factors That Affect Camping

A person in a green jacket is standing among several tents while the weather is cloudy

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Camping experience in and around Pune can be affected by various factors or reasons. A few of those are listed below:

  • Weather Conditions
  • Location
  • Personal Experience Level
  • Wildlife Encounters and
  • Camping Equipment

Levels Of Camping In Pune

At camping places in Pune, there are various types and levels of camping. Here is a list of a few levels that you can experience at camping sites in Pune:

1. Basic Or Platform Camping

 A tent is located on the ground between tall green trees whose top cover is transparent

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The basic level of camping consists of a tent in the wilderness or at a camping site on the ground. Most of the time, the tents will be pre-installed at the site. Basic amenities such as a washroom, food, and sleeping bags will be provided to you. This level of camping can be done by anyone and is family-friendly. Usually, it takes place near the forests or by the lakes, providing you with ample space to park your vehicle near the camping site.

2. Car Camping

A white van and a red car are parked on the side of the road with a tent on the red car

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In car camping, you might need to drive to the campsite where the tents will be provided and you get to assemble them. However, sometimes you have to carry it with you. In car camping, there is no need for hiking to reach the location; you can reach the site by car. There will be a few facilities provided to you at the site, like restrooms or a table for picnics. This level of camping is for people who have done camping once or have an idea about it.

3. Backpack Or Trek Camping

Several tents are placed on a small hill on the side of the tents there are red chairs

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In backpack camping, you will embark on a journey. Where you will trek to a destination and at night you will stay in either pre-installed tents or will install by yourself. You have to carry essential things with you, like dinner or snacks. You can also get them from a nearby place like a village or a small shop. The trek could take a few kilometres, and the pathway to reach the destination will be in good condition.

4. Adventurous Camping

An orange-coloured tent is located on the edge of a hill while sunrise is taking place

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Adventurous camping is typically done at remote or off-beat locations. At this level of camping, the camps are located in between the forest or mountain, away from the established campsites. Activities like trekking, rock climbing, and rafting can be done while adventure camping. The camper needs to be physically fit for this as it involves a bit of risk. The medical facilities other than first aid kits aren’t available on the site.

5. Survival Camping

Between the mountains, a tent is placed near a log of wood and a bottle of water

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In survival camping, there are no facilities or things provided other than what you have already carried with you. It is one of the most challenging, as you would be required to install a tent by yourself and cook food by starting the fire. Before cooking the food, you need to find the food by navigating your path or by activities such as fishing, etc. There will be no cell network, and you get to experience being in the wilderness in the rawest form.

Popular Camping Places In Pune

1. Pawna Lake

 A serene view of the Pawna Lake alongside which there is greenery and mountains

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Pawna Lake is an artificial lake that came into existence due to the construction of the Pawna Dam over the Pawna River. It is located in the Western Ghats, which makes it a natural hot spot for various flora and fauna. The lake is surrounded by various camping sites that offer numerous facilities like tents, snacks, dinner, washrooms, mobile and laptop charging points, etc. Campers can enjoy various activities in the daytime, such as bonfires, music, or small parties at night. The lake is near historical forts, such as Lohagad, Visapur, and Tung Fort. It is one of the most popular camping sites in Lonavala.

When To Visit: October to February
Duration: 1 day

2. Sinhagad Fort

An entrance gate of the historic Sinhagad Fort is made up of stone and has stone steps

Photo: Rait / Wikimedia Commons

The fort offers scenic views from the top and is surrounded by serene nature. It acts as an adventure spot for the campers and has historical significance. The fort was originally known as Kondhana Fort and has a history related to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It is permissible for the campers to camp near the fort area, and various facilities are offered to them, including basic food (snacks and dinner) and shelter (tents). People who visit the Sinhagad Fort get to experience the mesmerising sunrise and camp under the starry sky surrounded by a lush green environment.

When To Visit: September to February
Duration: 1 to 2 days

3. Bhatgarh Dam

A distant view from the shore of the marvellous Bhatgarh Dam made up on Velvandi River
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The Bhatgarh Dam, constructed over the Velvandi River, offers a good spot for adventure seekers to camp and explore the surrounding area. You can experience various activities, such as boating and kayaking in the backwaters of the dam. There are various camping places or resorts near the dam, such as WaterRock camps and Damosphere the tent life. This camping site is famous among people of all ages, especially as it offers a sunset point and there are several historic forts nearby. It offers ground for various water-based activities and is ideal for people who are looking for a place to relax and want to indulge in adventurous activities.

When To Visit: October to February
Duration: Half day or 1 full day

4. Bhandardara

Five tents are located near the bank of a river across which there are mountains

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Bhandardara is a touristic village located in the western ghats. It is known as a stargazing paradise and is famous for its camping sites near Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam, and Randha Falls. It is situated on the bank of the Pravara River and offers various sorts of camping experiences. Campers can choose to trek and view the Harishchandragad and Ratangad forts. This village is famous for its serene views and collection of various activities that take place at campsites. It is home to the highest peak in Maharashtra, Mount Kalsubai, which is 1,600 meters tall.

When To Visit: November to February
Duration: 2 days

5. Rajmachi

 People are standing on the top of Rajmachi Fort and admiring the mystical waterfalls

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The Rajmachi village is located at the foot of Rajmachi Fort and is located between Lonavala and Khandala hills. Campers get to experience trekking to the fort and observe the scenic view of the Katalhar Waterfall, which is visible from the fort. You will be able to witness the sunset and camp on the historic Rajmachi Fort. There are several activities for you to do here, along with tasting the local cuisines of this region. Nearby, there are 2 forts, Srivardhan and Manoranjan. There are numerous campsites in this region providing basic amenities, and at night you can spot the fireflies.

When To Visit: October to March
Duration: 1 to 2 days

Price Of Camping Places In Pune

A man is standing with his hands in his pocket and observing the sunrise near the tent

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The price of camping places in Pune varies due to the location, activities offered, and amenities provided at the site. If you are on a budget, the price could go from ₹1,200 to ₹3,000 per night for each person. However, if you want to explore the activities and are on a weekend getaway without a budget, you can pay up to ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 per night and experience the luxury camping sites.

The camping places in Pune offer a perfect mix of nature and adventure. From the calm shores of Pawna Lake to the beautiful hills of Rajmachi, there is something for everyone. You can go trekking or kayaking or spend your evenings stargazing with fireflies. Whether looking for a peaceful family trip or an exciting adventure, these camping spots suit all kinds of travellers. Plan your camping trip with TripXL today and enjoy the beauty of Pune’s outdoors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The amenities provided depend on the camping places in Pune that you’re visiting. Some of the common amenities are tents and bedding, toilets and bathrooms, meals and bonfire setup, drinking water and parking facilities, recreational activities and first-aid kits.
The basic things you should carry to the camping places in Pune are sunscreen and hats, walking shoes, mosquito & insect repellent, water bottles and, wipes.
At some sites, the mobile network services are fully available, and on other sites, the cell network might be unavailable.
Yes, on most of the camping sites, food such as snacks and dinner is available. It is included in the camping package.
The best time to explore camping places in Pune is from October to March.

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