Constructed around the 1970s across the Pavana River is the mighty Pawna Dam near Lonavala in Maharashtra. The waters of the dam also gave way to an artificial reservoir that eventually came to be known as Pavana Lake or Pawna Lake. With its idyllic location in the Western Ghats, this dam and lake have become very popular as day trip destination and weekend getaway. The dam is located near Lonavala, making it a convenient road trip destination for residents of nearby cities of Mumbai and Pune. The dam and its surrounding area is a veritable nature lover’s paradise; a beautiful lake, green pastures and farmlands, gently rolling hills and a number of ancient forts complete the picturesque scene around the dam. Camping by the lakeside, paragliding, picnicking, agro-tourism, etc., are very popular activities here. Before you plan your visit, take a look at our guide to Pawna Dam, Lonavala.
Things to do / Highlights
Go camping or glamping
Camping is the most popular activity in the vicinity of the dam. A wide number of camping companies offer competitive camping packages to visitors. Spend the day enjoying activities like sightseeing, barbeque, games, music and bonfire. Sleep in cosy tents by the lake and enjoy amazing views. You can also choose to pitch your own tent in a good spot by the lake and enjoy stargazing with your friends and family. If camping is not your thing, go for the glamping option and enjoy a slightly more luxurious experience. Escape the cares of your stressful city life and go camping or glamping by Pawna Dam.
Experience the thrills of paragliding
Another popular activity in the area is paragliding. With amazing wide-open areas, surrounding hilly terrain and strong breeze, paragliding is a very enjoyable activity here. Paragliding operators are available in the nearby areas and you can choose any one of them. Tandem paragliding is the best options for first-timers and the ideal way to take in all the beauty of the area. While paragliding, you can see the deep blue waters of the Pawna Lake, the magnificent Pawna Dam, the surrounding hills and forts perched on them as well as the rivers and villages nearby. Experience the adrenaline rush as you glide off the hilltop and face the cool breeze and warm sun.
Take in the scenic views from several dam viewpoints
The best and the cheapest thing to do at the dam is to take in the amazing views all around. From various viewpoints scattered across the lake, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the crystal clear Pawna Lake, surrounding green pastures, undulating hills and the majestic forts of Lohagad, Tung and Tikona nearby. Capture stunning shots of birds, lake, forts and hills from this majestic dam.
Travellers tips
Camping essentials
If you are camping overnight near the dam, make sure that you carry all your camping essentials like a sizable tent, sleeping bag, food, water, torch, toilet supplies, etc. Also, the temperature can drop significantly at night, so carry sufficient warm clothes with you. If you camp during the monsoon, carry waterproof jackets, bags and a change of clothes.
Time your visit
There are no trees or shade to protect you from the sun at the dam or surrounding area. Thus, it is advisable to avoid visiting in the hot summer months. The best time to visit is the rainy season when the surrounding area will be covered in lush greenery and the lake will be full. And if you happen to visit when the water is released from the dam, the view will be breathtaking!
How to get there
Combination of public and private transport
There is no direct public transportation available to take you to the dam. Hence, a combination of public and private transport is required. Lonavala railway station is 20 km (12.4 miles) away and the closest railhead to the dam. From there, you can hire a taxi or private jeep to take you to the dam. Kamshet railway station is also closeby and jeeps are available to take you to the dam from there too.
Private vehicle
Driving your own car or motorbike or a rental one is the best way to reach the dam. The dam is located close to Lonavala, which is well-connected by road to the cities of Mumbai and Pune. You can take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to reach Lonavala and then drive further on to the dam.
Parking information
There is no specific parking lot near the dam, but you can park near one of the many camping areas or open spaces near the lake. There is ample parking space near the entry point of the lake although the approach road is a bit difficult for smaller cars. Many visitors park on the side of the road as well.
Pawna Dam information
Pawna Dam
Address: Pawna Dam, Lonavala, Maharashtra
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
Department of tourism: Maharashtra Tourism
Pawna Lake Overnight Camping from Pune, India - Klook
Duration: 1 Day(s) Duration
History
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