Best Camping Near Pune — 15 Campsites for Every Budget
Pune is ringed with lakes, rivers, and hillsides that make for excellent overnight camping. Whether you want a fully managed camp with bonfire and DJ, a simple tent by a lake, or a private glamping dome, here are the best options within 120km of Pune.
Camping Options by Type
Lakeside Camping
1. Pawna Lake Camping (70km) The most popular camping destination near Pune. Dozens of operators run camps by the lake, with views of Tung and Tikona forts. The sunrise reflected in the still water is the main attraction.
- Cost: ₹1,000–2,500 per person
- Includes: Tent, sleeping bag, dinner (barbecue/bonfire), breakfast
- Activities: Night trek to Tikona, star gazing, sunrise photography
- Book: Multiple operators, book 1–2 weeks ahead for weekends
2. Mulshi Lake Camping (45km) Closer to Pune, Mulshi Lake camping offers lakeside tents with the Tamhini forest as backdrop. Popular October–February.
- Cost: ₹800–1,800 per person
- Proximity makes this good for a Friday-night quick escape
3. Bhandardara Camping (165km) For the dedicated camper — Arthur Lake surrounded by mountains including Kalsubai, Maharashtra's highest peak. The Bhandardara stargazing camp (October) is renowned.
- Cost: ₹1,500–3,000 per person
- Best for: Serious photographers, star gazers, nature immersion
Riverside Camping
4. Kolad River Camping (110km) Camp by the Kundalika River. Activities include river rafting, kayaking, and riverside bonfires. Popular for groups.
- Cost: ₹1,200–2,500 per person
- Activities: Rafting (Grade 2–3), kayaking, swimming
5. Bhivpuri / Karjat Camping (90km) The Ulhas River valley offers multiple camping operators. Accessible by train from Pune via Karjat.
6. Rajmachi Camping (85km) Camp at Udhewadi village at the base of Rajmachi Fort. Basic but atmospheric — you can see the fort lit by moonlight from your tent.
Fort & Hilltop Camping
7. Rajgad Fort Camping (55km) Camp on the plateau of Shivaji's former capital. Sunrise and sunset views over the Sahyadri range.
8. Torna Fort Camping (60km) Purandar district's best overnight trek. Camp near the summit and wake up above the clouds.
Glamping (Luxury Camping)
9. Lavasa Glamping (60km) Lakefront dome tents and glamping pods at the Lavasa resort. Premium experience with full facilities.
- Cost: ₹4,000–8,000 per person
10. Pawna Glamping Several premium operators at Pawna Lake now offer furnished dome tents, beds (not just sleeping bags), and private bathrooms.
Camping Cost Breakdown (Managed Camps)
| Type | Cost/Person | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Budget camp | ₹800–1,200 | Basic tent, sleeping bag, bonfire, dinner, breakfast |
| Standard camp | ₹1,200–2,000 | Swiss tent, better food, activities |
| Premium camp | ₹2,000–3,500 | Larger tent, multiple activities, better food |
| Glamping | ₹3,500–8,000 | Furnished tent/dome, bed, private bathroom |
What to Pack for Camping Near Pune
- Warm layers (nights drop to 12–15°C in winter near Pawna/Bhandardara)
- Torch or headlamp
- Insect repellent
- Personal medications
- Light day bag for activities
- Camera for sunrise
Plan Camping with Weekend Wander
Browse camping destinations and find groups heading to Pawna Lake, Bhandardara, and Kolad every weekend. Explore camping destinations.
