For most of the people who have not lived in Maharashtra, when one speaks of a good weekend trip the obvious choices are Mahabaleshwar, Goa, Mumbai etc.. but while I was living in Pune, my favourite weekend trip was Pune - trekking at Lohgarh Fort - Pawana Lake camping.
What do you look out for in a good weekend trip? I personally look for a beautiful escape, fresh air , good food, new experience and definitely some adventure!
This combination of starting your day trekking and ending with lake side camping is just perfect. We started early from Pune city - the fort is approx 50 kms. The closest railway station to the fort is Malavli railway station. I would highly recommend a bike trip with your bunch of buddies.
The fort is a part of western ghats overlooking Pawana lake.
We made this trip in the month of September. The weather was perfect for both trekking and camping. If it's raining which is very common at this elevation, the way up to the fort becomes slightly more tough with moss making it slippery. Carry a light raincoat, some water (preferably not in a plastic bottle), good hiking shoes and comfortable clothes.
Lohagarh fort literally translates to "Iron Fort". It is one of historic architectural marvels from Maratha empire. The hill fort keeps you amused all the way up , specially if you imagine life at the fort back in 17th century. Beware of monkeys on the way! I am not a fan of polluting such beautiful places and hence, would not recommend carrying eatables up the fort. Infact, treat yourself post trek with a plate of hot fresh Pyaaz bhajji and tea in the village down. Another great fruit of this trek.
Post our bhajji break, and a good afternoon with friends- we moved ahead to Pawana lake camping which is approx 40 mins ride. There are several lake camping providers and charge approximately 1500- 300o Rs depending on how large is the group you are travelling with and other provisions. Largely, they provide you evening snacks, dinner and breakfast. Tents are already present, bonfire and music too. Doesen't that sound perfect ?
We reached at perfect time to relax and end the day with a very peaceful view of sunset at the lake. Snacks were served. It was a delight. Unwind mode at its best. Legs dipped in fresh cold water, relieved us from all the possible stress in world.
We spent an amazing evening. Another group of people who travelled to the same camp also joined us. The bonfire was even more fun. There were vegetarian and non vegetarian sizzlers.
Nights can be cold - please carry suitable clothes and socks !! Nights can be loud too since some groups can be enjoying themselves way too much. Be a sport and as a group be considerate for other travellers too :) And yes, there are washrooms at the camp areas, in case you were wondering.
We managed to get up early - not for the breakfast but to an exquisite peaceful sunrise since most of the people were deep in sleep post last night's party. Perfect end to a perfect trip.
If you have more time and energy, there are Bedse Caves, Plant Nursery etc. also in the vicinity. I do not like accomodating too much over a weekend. We had a relaxed breakfast and close to the afternoon on day 2 ,we drove back to Pune - rejuvenated!