Pawna Lake is a beautiful artificial reservoir located near Lonavala in Maharashtra. Kamshet is a small town known for paragliding, situated about 20 kilometers from Pawna Lake. Many travelers visit Pawna Lake from Kamshet for camping, nature walks, and weekend getaways.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Kamshet to Pawna Lake. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect on arrival.

Getting from Kamshet to Pawna Lake – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a scenic and affordable option, especially if you want to enjoy the Western Ghats views. However, there is no direct train to Pawna Lake, so you will need to combine train travel with local transport.

• Kamshet Railway Station is well connected on the Mumbai-Pune route, with frequent local trains and passenger trains stopping here daily.

• The nearest railway station to Pawna Lake is Lonavala, about 10 kilometers away, accessible by local buses or taxis from Kamshet.

• Train fare from Kamshet to Lonavala ranges from ₹20 to ₹50, and travel time is approximately 20 minutes, depending on the train type.

• Trains can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC or local counters is advisable.

• From Lonavala station, you can hire a prepaid taxi or use Ola/Uber to reach Pawna Lake, which takes around 20 minutes and costs ₹300–₹500.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly way to travel but may take longer due to multiple stops. There are no direct buses from Kamshet to Pawna Lake, so you will need to travel via Lonavala or nearby towns.

• State transport buses operated by MSRTC run regularly from Kamshet to Lonavala bus depot, with a journey time of about 30 minutes and fares around ₹20–₹40.

• From Lonavala bus depot, local buses or shared jeeps are available to Pawna Lake, but frequency is limited, especially in the evenings.

• Private buses or tourist shuttles may operate during peak seasons; checking schedules in advance is recommended.

• Bus travel can be crowded during monsoon and weekends, so plan accordingly for comfort and safety.

• Bus stops near Pawna Lake are basic, so prepare for a short walk or taxi ride to your camping site or resort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kamshet to Pawna Lake is the most flexible and comfortable option. The distance is about 20 kilometers via the NH48 and local roads, taking around 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

• The route follows NH48 towards Lonavala, then takes local roads to Pawna Lake, passing through scenic Western Ghats landscapes.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Kamshet and Pune, with daily rates ranging from ₹1500 to ₹3000 depending on the vehicle type.

• Road conditions are generally good but can be slippery during monsoon; drive carefully and watch for toll plazas on NH48.

• Parking near Pawna Lake camping sites is usually available but can fill up quickly during weekends and holidays.

• Driving allows you to stop at local eateries and viewpoints along the way, enhancing your travel experience.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or using app-based cabs like Ola and Uber is convenient for direct travel from Kamshet to Pawna Lake. This option suits travelers who prefer door-to-door service without driving.

• Ola and Uber operate in Kamshet and Lonavala, with fares to Pawna Lake typically between ₹600 and ₹900 depending on vehicle type and time of day.

• Prepaid taxis can be booked at Kamshet railway station or through local travel agents for fixed rates.

• Taxi travel takes about 30–40 minutes, with flexibility to stop en route for refreshments or sightseeing.

• During peak tourist seasons, taxi availability may be limited, so booking in advance is recommended.

• Ensure the driver knows the exact location of your camping site or resort near Pawna Lake to avoid confusion on arrival.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Kamshet to Pawna Lake. It covers essential actions to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

• Step 1: Book your train or bus ticket from Kamshet to Lonavala in advance using IRCTC or MSRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure seat availability.

• Step 2: Upon arrival at Lonavala station or bus depot, locate the prepaid taxi counter or use a trusted app like Ola to book a cab to Pawna Lake, ensuring safe and reliable transport.

• Step 3: Confirm the exact address or GPS coordinates of your Pawna Lake camping site or resort with the driver to avoid confusion during the last mile.

• Step 4: Carry sufficient water and snacks for the short journey, especially during monsoon or hot summer days when roadside options may be limited.

• Step 5: Keep your mobile phone charged and have offline maps downloaded, as network coverage near Pawna Lake can be patchy in some areas.

• Step 6: If driving yourself, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and toll charges on NH48 before starting the trip for a hassle-free drive.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID and keep digital copies of your tickets and bookings to show at railway stations or checkpoints if required.

• Drink bottled water and avoid roadside tap water to prevent stomach issues during your trip to Pawna Lake.

• Book your transport tickets and accommodation well in advance during peak seasons like weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute price hikes or unavailability.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances in Kamshet and Lonavala, but agree on fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon months (June to September) as sudden showers are common in the Western Ghats region.

• Be cautious when driving or walking near Pawna Lake after sunset, as lighting is limited and wildlife may be present near the water.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kamshet to Pawna Lake depends on weather and crowd conditions. The region experiences heavy monsoon rains, which can affect road and rail travel.

Winter and post-monsoon months offer pleasant weather and clearer roads, making travel easier and more enjoyable.

• Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon months of July and August when landslides and road closures can cause delays on NH48 and local roads.

• Festivals like Diwali and New Year attract large crowds to Pawna Lake, leading to traffic jams and fully booked accommodations.

• Early morning departures from Kamshet help avoid traffic congestion on NH48 and provide a cooler, more comfortable journey.

• Late evening travel is not recommended due to limited lighting and fewer transport options available after dark near Pawna Lake.

Arrival at Pawna Lake & What to Expect

When you arrive at Pawna Lake, you will find a peaceful environment surrounded by hills and water. The area is popular for camping and outdoor activities, so expect basic facilities and natural beauty.

Local transport options from the main road to your camping site may include shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, or walking, depending on the exact location. Prepaid taxis and app cabs are less common here.

Accommodation options range from tents and cottages to small resorts near the lake. It is best to confirm your stay details before arrival to avoid confusion.

Conclusion

Traveling from Kamshet to Pawna Lake is straightforward with several options to suit different budgets and preferences. The most efficient and comfortable way is by car or taxi, offering flexibility and direct access to the lake.

Planning ahead by booking tickets and accommodation early, especially during peak seasons, will help you avoid last-minute stress. With proper preparation and local knowledge, you can enjoy a smooth journey and a memorable stay at Pawna Lake.