Uksan Lake, also known as Ukson Lake, is a picturesque freshwater lake located in the Sahyadri Range of Maharashtra, India. Situated near the village of Kamshet in the Pune district, Uksan Lake is known for its serene beauty and tranquil surroundings. It is an ideal destination for camping, boating, fishing and picnicking, as well as for enjoying the views of the nearby hills and forests. It is a place where one can relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with nature. Visit during Mumbai to Kamashet One day trip by cab
Location of Uksan Lake
Uksan Lake is situated about 14 kilometers from Kamshet, a popular hill station and tourist attraction in Maharashtra. It is about 110 kilometers from Mumbai and 58 kilometers from Pune by road. The nearest railway station is Kamshet, which is about 17 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Pune International Airport, which is about 65 kilometers away.
Timing / Entry Fees Uksan Lake
Uksan Lake is open for visitors throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is full of water. The monsoon season (June to September) can also be a good time to enjoy the lush greenery and waterfalls around the lake, but camping may not be possible due to heavy rains.
There is no entry fee for visiting Uksan Lake, but camping charges may vary depending on the campsite and the facilities provided. The average camping cost ranges from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per person, which includes tent stay, snacks, barbecue, dinner, breakfast and sports activities. Some campsites also offer bonfire, live music and adventure activities at an extra cost.
How to Reach Uksan Lake
Uksan Lake can be reached by road from Mumbai or Pune via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway or the old Mumbai-Pune Highway. One has to take a diversion at Kamshet and follow the signs for Uksan Lake or Ukson Lake. The road condition is good for most of the way, except for some patches near the lake.
Alternatively, one can take a train to Kamshet station from Mumbai or Pune and then hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Uksan Lake. The distance from Kamshet station to Uksan Lake is about 17 kilometers and the fare is around Rs. 300 to Rs. 400.
Things to Do / Must See Uksan Lake
Uksan Lake offers a variety of things to do and see for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the popular activities and attractions are:
- Camping: Camping is one of the most popular activities at the Lake, as it allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the lake and its surroundings. There are many campsites around the lake that provide tents, mattresses, blankets, pillows, toilets, showers and other amenities for a comfortable stay. Some campsites also offer barbecue, bonfire, live music and adventure activities like trekking, rappelling, zip-lining and paragliding.
- Boating: Boating is another fun activity that can be enjoyed at the Lake. There are various types of boats available for rent at the lake shore, such as paddle boats, motor boats, speed boats and kayaks. Boating can be a relaxing way to explore the lake and admire the scenic views of the mountains and forests.
- Fishing: Fishing is another activity that can be done at the Lake, as it has a rich variety of fish species such as catfish, rohu, mrigal and carp. Fishing can be a rewarding and relaxing experience for anglers of all levels. Fishing equipment can be rented or bought at the lake shore or nearby shops.
- Picnicking: Picnicking is a simple yet enjoyable way to spend some quality time with family and friends at Uksan Lake. There are many spots around the lake where visitors can spread a mat, have some snacks and drinks, play games and relax. Some of these spots are near waterfalls, temples or gardens that add to the charm of the place.
- Sightseeing: Sightseeing is another activity that can be done at the Lake, as there are many historical and cultural attractions nearby that are worth visiting. Some of these are:
- Karla Caves: Karla Caves are ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves that date back to the 2nd century BC. They are located about 20 kilometers from Uksan Lake and are famous for their impressive architecture and sculptures. The main attraction of the caves is the Karla Chaitya Hall, which is one of the largest rock-cut prayer halls in India.
- Bhaja Caves: Bhaja Caves are another set of rock-cut Buddhist caves that are located about 22 kilometers from Uksan Lake. They are similar to the Karla Caves in style and date back to the 2nd century BC. They have 22 caves that contain various stupas, sculptures and paintings that depict the life of Buddha and his followers.
- Bhairi Caves: Bhairi Caves are a group of three caves that are located on a hilltop near Uksan Lake. They are believed to be the abode of a local deity named Bhairavnath, who is worshipped by the villagers. The caves have some carvings and paintings that depict the rituals and offerings made to the deity.
- Kondeshwar Temple: Kondeshwar Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that is located near Uksan Lake. It is built in the Hemadpanthi style of architecture and has a stone shikhara and a water tank. The temple is surrounded by greenery and waterfalls and is a popular spot for picnics and festivals.
Significance of Uksan Lake
Uksan Lake is not only a tourist destination, but also a source of water supply and irrigation for the nearby villages and towns. The lake also helps in generating hydroelectric power through the Uksan Dam. The lake supports a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, such as birds, fish, reptiles and mammals. The lake also has a cultural and religious significance, as it is associated with many legends and stories of the local people.
FAQ’s
- Q: Is Uksan Lake safe for swimming?
- A: No, Uksan Lake is not safe for swimming, as it has deep water, strong currents and crocodiles. Swimming is strictly prohibited at the lake.
- Q: Is Uksan Lake open for visitors during COVID-19 pandemic?
- A: Yes, Uksan Lake is open for visitors during COVID-19 pandemic, but with some restrictions and precautions. Visitors have to follow the guidelines issued by the government and the campsite owners, such as wearing masks, maintaining social distance, sanitizing hands and avoiding large gatherings.
- Q: What are the timings for boating at Uksan Lake?
- A: The timings for boating at Uksan Lake are from 9 am to 6 pm. However, boating may be closed during bad weather or low water level.
- Q: What are the things to carry for camping at Uksan Lake?
- A: Some of the things to carry for camping at Uksan Lake are:
- ID proof
- Water bottle
- Torch
- Warm clothes
- Personal toiletries
- Medicines
- Camera
- Power bank
- Snacks
- Games
Conclusion
Uksan Lake is a perfect destination for those who love nature, adventure and history. It offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life and a chance to reconnect with oneself and others. It is a place where one can enjoy the beauty of the lake, the charm of the caves, the serenity of the temple and the fun of the camping. It is a place where one can create memories that last a lifetime.
