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The Pawna Lake in Pune is located in the Western Ghats, which is a peaceful and scenic destination known for its calm waters and beautiful natural surroundings. Lake, situated near the Pawna Dam, is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. It has turned into the best place for camping, picnicking and adventure activities, pulling more nature lovers and weekend travellers. The calm breeze, beautiful views, and proximity to historical forts make Pawna Lake a must-see place for relaxing in nature. From adventure lovers to those who want to chill, Pawna Lake has something for everyone.
Quick Details About Pawna Lake In Pune
Location: Maval taluka, Pune district, Maharashtra
Type: Artificial Lake
Etymology: Pavana River/Pavana Dam
Built: 1973 (1973)
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Location
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Pawna Lake is located next to the village of Pawananagar, otherwise known as Pawana or Pawana Lake, in Maval taluka in Pune district in the state of Maharashtra, India. The lake is located some 60 km from Pune city and 120 km from Mumbai. Located along the Lonavala-Kamshet road and just off the Old Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH 48).
How To Reach Pawna Lake In Pune
Photo: Ranepictography / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest airport is Pune International Airport (60 km). You can take taxis or a bus from the airport to reach Pawna Lake.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Lonavala (25 km). Taxis and local buses are available from Lonavala to reach the lake.
By Road: You can drive or get a cab from Pune (60 km) or Mumbai (120 km). You can also take a bus to Lonavala or Kamshet and hire a taxi for the last leg to Pawna Lake.
Things To Do At Pawna Lake In Pune
Explore Pawna Lake in Pune through its calm waters and enjoy the lush green surroundings up close:
1. Camping
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Camping at Pawna Lake is one of the most preferred activities that helps you sleep beneath the starry skies while surrounded by the calmness of nature. Most of the campsites have post-set up tents, bonfire, barbeque, and live music. You can also enjoy lakeside views, nature walks, and a peaceful atmosphere away from city havoc. The lake is an ideal getaway for lovers, families, and friends, and waking up to misty mornings here is an alluring experience.
2. Water Activities And Boating
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There are also several water activities available at Pawna Lake in Pune, such as kayaking, paddle boating, and swimming. The shimmering waters of the river are perfect for some tranquil boating, and the surrounding hills and forts display scenic delights in all directions. Adventure lovers can participate in activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding for a small fee.
Places To Visit Near Pawna Lake
Pawana Lake is surrounded by worthy places to visit for your weekend getaway, from forts and caves to waterfalls.
1. Lohagad Fort
Photo: Rashmi.parab / Wikimedia Commons
Lohagad Fort is a hill fort that stands at 3,400 feet (1,050 m) above sea level. It is an ancient fort from the period of the Maratha Empire and provides you with history, trekking, and natural beauty. Lohagad Fort hike is comparatively easy and it takes around 1 hour, 30 minutes to 2 hours to reach the top. This fort is famous for its four gates, historical ruins and the Vinchu Kata (Scorpion’s Tail), a long fortified wall similar to a scorpion’s tail.
Trekking Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best Time To Visit: June to September, October to February
2. Tikona Fort
Photo: Varun Patil / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Around 3,500 feet high, Tikona Fort is a triangular fort also known as Vitandgad. The fort is famous for its steep climbs and the panoramic views it offers of the surrounding landscape. Tikona Fort Trek is moderate, 1-2 hours (one way). The trail has rocky steps, narrow passages and a bit of scrambling, which increases the fun. You can explore old Buddhist caves, water tanks, and the Trimbakeshwar Mahadev temple at the top.
Trekking Time: 1 – 2 hours
Best Time To Visit: October to February
3. Visapur Fort
Photo: NishantAChavan / Wikimedia Commons
Visapur Fort is a significant fort that is situated at a height of 3,556 feet. It provides a much tougher hike than its twin fortress, Lohagad. The Visapur Fort trek takes you about 2 hours to 3 hours of hiking, depending on the route of forest trails, rocky road, or waterfall in the monsoon. The fort has a large plateau that holds older ruins, ancient wells, cut stone steps and a few small caves. Its distinction lies in its major walls and the profile of Hanuman, reinforcing its historical and cultural value.
Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Best Time To Visit: June to September, October to February
4. Karla And Bhaja Caves
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The place has numerous rock-cut caves like Karla and Bhaja, which are ancient rock-cut caves that were excavated in Western India. Dating as far back as the 2nd century BC, these caves are a treasure trove of ancient Indian architecture and Buddhist culture. Karla Caves, the large Chaitya (prayer hall) with richly carved pillars and a stunning stupa make Karla Caves a treat. There are also many stupas besides 22 rock-cut formations with various sculptures depicting mythological tales.
Entry Fee: ₹20 – ₹50 per person
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
5. Dudhiware Waterfall
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Dudhiware Waterfall is a hidden beauty, a seasonal waterfall that comes alive during the monsoon when water spills down from a height of nearly 135 feet. The area surrounding the waterfall is abundant with vegetation, making for a cool and serene atmosphere. Waterfall rappelling, ziplining, and trekking can be organised by local adventure groups and is a great place for adventure activities. Dudhiware Waterfall is less crowded as compared to other tourist spots, so it channels exactly where peace meets adventure.
Entry Fee: ₹800 – ₹1,500
Best Time To Visit: June To September
Where To Stay
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You can find lakeside camps, resorts, and homestays near Pawna Lake in Pune. Campsites are the most preferred option and a great combination of adventure and comfort. Pawna Lake Camping, Letscampout, and Sunrise Pawna Lake Camping are some of the camps that offer pre-pitched tents, a bonfire experience, meals and activities. Tentacore charges a camping package of ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per person, which includes meals and basic amenities. For people who like more comfort, you can stay in resorts like 7 Apple Resort and Treasure Island Resort, where you can get comfortable rooms with modern facilities and swimming pools along with several indoor activities.
Where To Eat
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Food is available through campsites near Pawna Lake, where people often camp overnight, as food is included in the package. Meals are typically in buffet style and consist of easy-to-eat yet tasty dishes such as Maharashtrian fare, barbecue items, and comfort foods like Maggi, poha, and parathas. Many campsites offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, and special requests can usually be arranged if made in advance. Other dining options include heading to the nearby town of Lonavala. Some of the popular places are Rama Krishna, the Kinara Village Dhaba, and Parsi Dhaba.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Bodkedd / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The approximate cost of a one-day trip to Pawna Lake in Pune depends on the stay, the adventure and the transportation. A budget trip can range at about ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per person (for the weekend) with camping and transportation. This budget can shoot up to ₹10,000-₹15,000 per person with mid-range options (₹4,000-₹8,000 per night) with stays in resorts and adventure activities.
Tips For Travellers
- October to May is the best time to visit. In monsoons, the region turns green but camping can become tricky.
- Pack comfortable clothing, trek-ready shoes, warm clothes for the evenings and swimwear if doing any water activities.
- Be it camping or staying at a resort, book ahead of time, specifically on weekends and holidays.
- Always wear life jackets and heed local instructors.
- It’s important to keep the area clean by disposing of waste properly and avoiding water contamination.
- Bring simple first aid supplies and necessary medications, along with mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Please do not disturb the natural habitat, especially during treks or water availability.
Pawna Lake in Pune is a hidden gem for adventure and relaxation. In addition to its peace, scenic vistas, and plethora of things to do, this fantastic place in nature has provided looks for all ages and tastes. It is a perfect place for you if you want to go camping, indulge in different water sports or explore historical forts. So, plan your trip well with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Sharadsy / Wikimedia Commons
