A night under the stars after a day on the trail is one of the best things about the Sahyadris. Around Mumbai and Pune you can camp beside a lake, on a hilltop plateau, near a river or right on top of an ancient fort. This guide covers the best camping spots near Pune and Mumbai, from easy lakeside camps for families to trek and camping nights on forts like Harishchandragad and Ratangad, plus what to pack, the rules to know and the best season.
Types of Camping near Mumbai and Pune
- Lakeside camping: easy, comfortable camps beside a lake, good for families and first-timers.
- Trek and camping: climb a fort or peak, then spend the night on top or at the base village. The best way to see a sunset and sunrise from the mountains.
- Riverside and adventure camps: camps near rivers that combine a night in tents with activities like rafting.
Best Trek and Camping Spots
1. Harishchandragad
- Where: Malshej Ghat region, reachable from Mumbai and Pune
- Type: Trek and camping (2 days, 1 night)
The most loved trek and camping trip in the Sahyadris. Climb from Pachnai, explore the Harishchandreshwar temple and Kedareshwar cave, watch the sunset from the giant cliff of Konkan Kada, camp on the plateau and catch the sunrise from Taramati peak.
Tip: Nights are cold from November to February. Carry a warm layer and a sleeping bag or two bedsheets.
Join our Harishchandragad trek and camping or read the Harishchandragad guide.
2. Ratangad
- Where: Ratanwadi, Bhandardara
- Type: Trek and camping
Iron ladders, the Nedhe rock window and big views of Kalsubai and Bhandardara lake. Ratanwadi village at the base and the nearby Bhandardara lake are popular for an overnight stay with a trek.
Tip: Stay near the lake for a starry night, and start the climb early the next morning.
See our Ratangad trek or read the Ratangad guide.
3. Kalsubai
- Where: Bari village, near Bhandardara
- Type: Night trek with a stay at the base
Maharashtra's highest peak. Trekkers often stay at Bari village, climb at night and reach the summit for sunrise.
Tip: The summit is very windy and cold before dawn. Carry gloves, a cap and a warm jacket.
4. Rajmachi
- Where: Udhewadi village, near Lonavala
- Type: Trek and village stay
Two forts, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, on a wide plateau. Udhewadi village at the base offers simple overnight stays, and the area is famous for fireflies just before the monsoon.
Tip: The walk from Lonavala is long but gentle. Start early to reach before dark.
Read more in our guide to treks near Lonavala.
Best Lakeside and Riverside Camping
5. Pawna Lake
- Where: Near Lonavala, below Tikona and Tung forts
- Type: Lakeside camping
The most popular camping spot near Pune and Mumbai, with tents along the lake, campfires and views of Tikona and Tung. Easy to reach and good for families, friends and first-time campers.
Tip: Pair it with a short trek to Tikona in the morning.
6. Bhandardara (Arthur Lake)
- Where: Near Igatpuri, Ahmednagar district
- Type: Lakeside camping
A large lake surrounded by the highest peaks of Maharashtra, with Ratangad and Kalsubai close by. Camps here are peaceful, and the night sky is often clear in winter.
Tip: Combine it with Ratangad or Kalsubai for a full weekend.
7. Mulshi and Panshet
- Where: West of Pune
- Type: Lakeside camping
Calm dam backwaters with hills all around, close to Pune. A quick escape for a one-night camp without a long drive.
Tip: Weekend nights can be busy. Book a camp in advance.
8. Kolad (Kundalika River)
- Where: Raigad district, on the Mumbai to Goa route
- Type: Riverside and adventure camping
Known for river rafting on the Kundalika, with riverside camps that combine a night in tents with water activities.
Tip: Rafting depends on the water release schedule and season. Check before you go.
Camping Rules You Should Know
- Not every fort allows camping. Many forts are protected monuments or inside wildlife sanctuaries, and rules can change with orders from the forest department and local authorities.
- Go with an organiser who knows the current rules and has local arrangements, especially for camping on forts.
- Fires only where allowed. Never light a fire in dry grass or inside a forest.
- No alcohol or loud music on forts and inside sanctuaries.
- Leave no trace: carry back every piece of plastic and waste.
What to Pack for Camping
- A sleeping bag or two bedsheets and a light mat
- A warm jacket, cap and socks for the night
- A head torch with spare batteries
- 2 to 3 litres of water and some snacks
- Personal medicines and a small first-aid kit
- A power bank, as there is often no electricity
- Toiletries, a small towel and a bag for your waste
- Insect repellent, especially near lakes and forests
Best Time for Camping near Pune and Mumbai
October to February is the best season, with clear skies, starry nights and cool weather. Winter nights on high forts like Harishchandragad and Kalsubai can be very cold, so pack warm. Lakeside camps are open for much of the year, while camping on forts is usually best after the monsoon. Before the monsoon, late May to early June, is the season for fireflies in places like Rajmachi and Bhandardara.
Trek and Camping with With Sakhi
Our trek and camping trips take care of everything: transport from Mumbai and Pune, meals, the stay arrangement and certified trek leaders, so you can simply enjoy the sunset, the campfire and the stars. Our next camping trek is the Harishchandragad 2 days 1 night trek and camping. See all upcoming treks, or read our guide to the best winter treks in Maharashtra.
Camping near Pune and Mumbai: Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best camping spot near Pune?
Pawna lake is the most popular camping spot near Pune for an easy lakeside camp. For trek and camping, Harishchandragad and Rajmachi are excellent choices.
Which is the best camping spot near Mumbai?
Pawna lake, Bhandardara and Kolad are popular with campers from Mumbai. For a trek with an overnight stay, Harishchandragad and Ratangad are favourites.
Is camping allowed on forts in Maharashtra?
Some forts allow overnight stays with local arrangements, but many are protected monuments or inside sanctuaries where rules can change. Always go with an organiser who knows the current permissions.
What is the best season for camping near Pune and Mumbai?
October to February is the best season, with clear skies and cool nights. Late May to early June is the season for fireflies.
What should I carry for a trek and camping trip?
A sleeping bag or two bedsheets, warm clothes, a head torch, water, snacks, a first-aid kit, a power bank and a bag to carry your waste back.
Is camping safe for families and beginners?
Yes. Lakeside camps like Pawna lake are easy and comfortable for families. For trek and camping, start with a group trip and an experienced organiser.
