Pench National Park: Exploring the Heart of India's Wildlife
Updated: Aug 27
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Pench National Park has been on the radar of famed national parks in India. Our beloved jungle boy Mowgli's connection to Pench National Park was one of the reasons it shot to fame. However, with its renowned Bengal tigers, leopards, and elusive black panther, this national park has been grabbing headlines lately. As more resorts pop up nearby, wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe are flocking in to witness the magic firsthand. The Tiger Reserve is nestled within the southern slopes of the Satpura ranges in central India. Located in the Seoni and Chhindwara Districts of Madhya Pradesh State, India, Pench's headquarters is stationed in Seoni, however it also shares its borders with Maharashtra. The sprawling Pench Tiger Reserve covers 1,180 square kilometers, encompassing a buffer zone of 768 square kilometers.
Pench National Park aka 'Mowgli Land' in Central India
Pench National Park has earned renown as the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's cherished 'The Jungle Book,' a timeless tale first published in 1894. The park's prominence soared globally in 1970 due to this association. Visiting Pench feels like stepping into the pages of Kipling's classic, with iconic characters such as Baloo (the Sloth bear), Bagheera (the black panther), Kaa (the python), Hathi (the leader of the elephants), Akela and Raksha (the Indian Wolves), and the formidable Shere Khan (the Royal Bengal Tiger) coming to life. This enchanting connection has earned Pench the affectionate moniker 'The Mowgli Land.'
The Allure of Pench National Park and Tiger Reserve
Apart from the Mowgli frenzy surrounding Pench National Park, this park and tiger reserve has so much more to offer.
For botanists, arborists, or dendrophiles or nature enthusiasts: The Pench forest boasts three distinct categories of flora, the southern tropical dry deciduous teak forest, the lush southern tropical wet forest, and the vibrant mixed forest.Unlike the dense bamboo trees found in Bandhavgarh or Kanha national parks of Madhya Pradesh, Pench National Park boasts a forest dominated by salai (Indian frankincense), pickle, moyan, and tendu (Indian ebony) tree species. The air in the forest is filled with the fragrance of Mahua (Indian butter tree), Palash (Flame of the Forest), and fruitful Plum trees. One quarter of the area are Teak and Bamboo trees, adding to the park's diverse ecosystem.
For the wildlife enthusiasts its a haven! Among the park's residents, carnivores such as the Tiger, leopard, wild cat, wild dogs (dhole), hyena, golden jackal, fox, and wolf roam the wilderness. An elusive black panther and her cub have also been making waves with their sightings. The well-being of a forest hinges on its predator-prey ratio, which is thriving in Pench, where prey populations are abundant such as the Gaur (Indian bison), Nilgai, Hanuman langurs, Sambar, Chital (spotted deer), and Boar (wild pig) also enhance the forest's beauty. We also spotted a massive python, belly full from conjuring some animal.
For bird watchers, Pench National Park is also home to a diverse avian population, with around 325 species of birds. The Totladoh reservoir becomes a haven for migratory birds during winters, welcoming species like the Brahminy duck (Ruddy shelduck), Sankhachil (Pintail), Crested Eagles, Indian Cormorant, and Indian Roller (Blue Jay), among others, to its tranquil waters. We spotted loads of peacocks, kingfishers, and Black-headed Ibis as well.
Best time to Visit Pench
The optimal time to visit Pench National Park is from November to May. However if you can bear the heat, March to May is the best time. Read further.
In winter, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 28 degrees Celsius.
Summer can be quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 45 degrees Celsius, which may be uncomfortable for tourists. Nonetheless, the probability of spotting tigers significantly rises from March to May due to the scorching heat. During this time, the grass dries up, and there is reduced water availability, making it more likely to see these animals around remaining water sources.
During the monsoon season, it's worth mentioning that the park closes , as it's the breeding time for wild animals. Therefore, Pench National Park is open to tourists from October 16th until the end of June.
How To reach Pench National Park
Pench National Park is situated in the heart of India within Madhya Pradesh. Positioned in the southern region of Madhya Pradesh, specifically in Seoni and Chhindwara districts, it shares a border with Maharashtra.
🚗 The park is easily reachable by road, with taxis readily accessible from Nagpur and Jabalpur.The highway from Nagpur to Pench National Park is National Highway 44 (NH44). The forested areas you'll pass through are part of the Seoni district in Madhya Pradesh, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. These forests are often referred to as the Seoni Forests or Seoni Jungle.
Helpful Tip:
Ola and Uber are very convenient options to travel in Nagpur city.
Alternatively you can rent a car and drive down or hire a taxi with a driver. Please use the link provided HERE.
✈️ Accessible airports include Nagpur (92 km) in Maharashtra and Jabalpur (200 km) in Madhya Pradesh. We took a flight to Nagpur airport (Baba Saheb Ambedkar International Airport), and hired a taxi from our hotel Radisson Blu Nagpur to drive us 3 hours to the National Park. If you land at night, the sensible thing to do is to stay the night at a hotel near the airport and then drive early next morning to the game stay.
🚂 The closest railway station is in Nagpur, 92 km away. Seoni Railway Station, around 72 km from Pench, serves as the nearest rail hub.
🚌 Buses run hourly from Nagpur to Khawasa or Seoni, offering convenient road access to Pench and surrounding areas.
Safari Timings
During the winter season (November to February),
Morning jeep safaris start from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Evening safaris start from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
During the summer season (March to June),
Morning jeep safaris start from 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Evening safaris start from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
A Guide to Safari Booking
If you’re doing the safari booking by yourself, understanding the safari booking process at Pench Tiger Reserve is crucial. It is important to know that although Pench National Park is located within the administrative districts of Seoni and Chhindwara in Madhya Pradesh, it also shares its southern boundary with Maharashtra, making it accessible from both states.
Pench National Park comprises seven zones: Turia, Karmajhiri, Jamtara, Rukhad, Wolf Sanctuary, Sillari, and Khursapar.
Madhya Pradesh's Pench has core zones Jhamtara, Karmajhiri, Touria and buffer zones Khawasa, Khumbhpani, Masurnala, Rukhad, and Teliya.
Touria Gate: This gate is the most popular gate amongst tourists visiting Pench. It is closest to National Highway 7 and lies on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Majority of hotels and resorts are located on the southern part of the reserve. Common sighting: Leopards, chitals (spotted deer), jackals.
Karmajhiri Gate: Due to limited available accommodation here, this gate is relatively less busy. However, forest rest houses are located at this gate. Common sighting: Tigers, Wild dogs, sambar, barking deer, gaurs.
Jamtara Gate: This is the third gate of the park, and only a limited area of the park can be visited in this zone. You can cross over to other zones from Chendia ghat and reach the breakfast point of Alikatta when the river is dry. Common sighting: Sloth bears.
Khawasa Buffer: This zone is located close to the Turia Gate. It is also known as the Wolf Sanctuary, and one can experience a night safari in this area. Common sighting: Wolves, foxes, porcupines, and owls.
Teliya Buffer: Known For its wolf sighting, this new Buffer zone is hailing with its Black Panther/ Melanistic Leopard sightings. Besides Leopard, teliya buffer offers wonderful sightings of Barking Deer, Chowsingha and Blue-Bull Antelope.
Permits for these gates can be obtained through the Madhya Pradesh Government Official Website.
The Maharashtra side of the Pench Forest has 3 Core Zones. Sillari, Khursapar, and Chorbahuli are the gates in the Maharashtra core area. The zones remain open throughout the year. The buffer zones are Kolitmara, Surewani, Khubada and Paoni.
Khursapar Gate: Khursapar Gate, often underrated yet readily accessible, presents itself as a viable option. Situated within Maharashtra, it lies merely 12 km from Khawasa and 30 km from Turia. Known as the prime zone for day safaris, it offers a convenient and enriching wildlife experience. Common sighting: Tigers.
Sillari Gate: The Sillari Gate is a well-known gate on the Maharashtra side of Pench. This gate is approximatly 40 kms from Touria gate. The gate is closed on Wednesday for morning and afternoon safaris and the accomodation options on this side of gate are very limited. Common Sighting: Wild Dogs and Sloth Bears.
Kolitmara Gate: If you want to enjoy a boat ride through the enchanting dense jungle of Pench, then Kolitmara gate should be your option. This gate is 80 kms away from Nagpur.
Permits for these gates can be obtained through the Maharashtra Tourism Official Website.
Kindly note:
You must carry the same photo ID card (Aadhar, voter I.D., passport, driving license) with you that had been used to book your online safari.
Visitors typically opt for either the Turia Gate or the Karmajhiri Gate for tiger sightings, advance booking is necessary. A total of 50 vehicles are permitted entry, with approximately 35 from Turia gate.
Different types of Safaris in Pench National Park
Regular Safari 🐅 Morning and evening shifts offer jeep safaris accommodating a maximum of 6 people each. While jeeps are typically booked in their entirety, single-seat bookings are occasionally available. If fewer than six passengers book, the cost of the safari is divided equally among them. |
Tatkal Safari 🐆 Your spontaneous travel plans need not end in disappointment anymore, thanks to Tatkal. Tatkal safari bookings offer an instant solution for travelers, with limited windows available for booking. This safari option is available in high-demand zones. Despite the higher cost, it ensures a safari drive, catering to last-minute travelers. |
Premium Safari 📹 A full-day exploration of all zones, providing personalized tours at a higher price point. This safari caters to photographers and videographers keen on capturing specific animals or shooting documentaries. It grants access to all zones except the Maharashtra part of Pench. Moreover, it prioritizes entry and exit for jeeps, ensuring ample time for capturing footage or images. |
Elephant Safari 🐘 Exclusive to the Maharashtra side of the park, priced at INR 1,000 per person for a one-hour ride. This option is temporaily closed. |
Walking Trail 🐾 This trail spans approximately 3 km and is accessible from the Karmajhiri Gate. Visitors keen on exploring the jungle by foot can embark on this walking route via Runi-Jhooni. |
Night Safari 🌙 The Wolf Sanctuary is the ideal zone, for those interested in night safaris, as the government has authorized night safaris specifically in this area. If you're staying near the Touria gate, you can indulge in a night safari experience in the Khawasa and Rukhad zones. The tour typically begins around 6:00 PM and lasts until 9:00 PM with an approximate entry fee of INR 9,500 for jeep entry (maximum six people), covering the vehicle, permit, and guide. Night safari bookings are available directly on-site and are strictly limited to the buffer zone. |
Boat Safari 🚤 Embarking on a memorable Ken River journey allows tourists to marvel at the park's beauty while observing migratory birds. It's strongly advised to opt for the sunset safari accompanied by an expert naturalist for an enriching experience. |
Safari Permit Costs
For both Indian and Foreign tourists, safari permits can be availaed from the government portal. Many of the luxurious lodges provide this service and manage all the paper work for you. Permits are priced at Rs. 250 for a single seat permit and Rs. 1500 for a full vehicle permit in any of the four tourist zones. However, these prices do not cover Portal, Forest Guide, and Jeep/Gypsy charges.
How can I get a Guide for the safari?
When you reach your desired gate, a Forest Guide will be alloted to your vehicle at the entry point, without whom you cannot enter the park. Forest Guides are mandatory during the Park safari. So in case you have booked a naturalist from the lodge, he will be driving your jeep/gypsy while the guide sits on the alloted back seat of the vehicle. The cost of hiring a Guide is Rs. 360 for each safari, however if you enter from Turia or Karmajhiri core gates, then the guide costs might be higher. Also if you go with the package from your lodge, they might add additional costs for guide. Guides are assigned on a roster basis, and visitors are required to have them accompany from the entry point during permit verification.
How can I arrange a Vehicle for the safari?
Access to the Tiger Reserve for safaris is limited to registered vehicles only. The safari fee is Rs. 2000, and an additional Rs. 1500 is charged for vehicles used in the Telia buffer zone. Pench Tree Lodge collaborates with Pugdundee Safaris, providing their own jeeps for guests. We opted for a packaged deal through the lodge, securing our safari experience seamlessly.
To give you an estimate, our safari package from Pugdundee Safaris for 4 Safaris was charged @ INR 46800 (approximately INR 11,700) per safari.
Naturalist @ INR 1500 X 4 Safaris will be INR 6000
Safari Jeep Costs
Jeep (Madhya Pradesh) | Weekdays: INR 7500 per Jeep for Indian visitors, and INR 12000 per Jeep for foreigners. Weekends: INR 8500 per Jeep for Indian visitors, and INR 18000 per Jeep for foreigners. |
Jeep (Maharashtra) | Weekdays: INR 6500 per Jeep for Indian visitors, and INR 6500 per Jeep for foreigners. Weekends: INR 7000 per Jeep for Indian visitors, and INR 7000 per Jeep for foreigners. |
Sharing Safari | On weekdays, the cost is INR 6500 per Jeep for both Indian and foreign visitors. During weekends, the price remains the same at INR 7000 per Jeep for both Indian and foreign visitors. |
Kindly note:
Up to 6 adults and 2 children (aged between 0-5 years) are permitted in one jeep.
For single-seat safaris, there is no pick-up and drop-off service from the resort/lodge; guests must make their own way to the gate.
Accommodation in Pench
Pench Tree Lodge
Pench Tree Lodge seamlessly combines rustic charm with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests. We had booked our rooms in Pench Tree Lodge, which is an eco friendly luxe haven for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists alike. It is 2 hours and 45 mins away from the Nagpur airport. Amidst 40 acres of untamed wilderness, behold the splendid Pench Tree Lodge! This luxe safari haven, nestled in the charming tribal village of Sarahiri near Pench National Park, is the ultimate hidden gem for adventurous souls who seek luxury, nature indulgence and wildlife adventures.
Upon entering the lodge through a gate adorned with the Pench Tree Lodge signage, we were warmly welcomed by the lodge staff with cold wet face towels and the naturalist at the reception area. As a thoughtful gesture to reduce plastic bottle usage, the naturalist also provided us with steel water bottles.
The lodge boasts 16 cozy cottages and tree houses amidst natural surroundings. Families can enjoy spacious accommodations with amenities such as balconies overlooking the forest.
Services include guided safaris by Pugdundee Safaris, a highly recommended safari company, that specialises in wildlife spotting and have knowledgeable naturalists and forest guides.
Rooms feature safari-style furniture and local crafts, emphasizing environmental sustainability.
Guests can enjoy activities like bike rides and cultural experiences with the local community
The restaurant, boasting spacious seating and an open pantry, providing a delightful dining experience. We relished lavish Indian meals sourced from the lodge's organic garden.
Additionally, guests can relax and unwind at the swimming pool or partake in other recreational activities offered by the lodge.
Book your stay at Pench Tree Lodge through Booking.com.
Resort Name | Star Rating | Near Gate | Tariff (In INR) for 2 persons (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner) |
Pugdundee Safaris Pench Tree Lodge | 4 stars | Karmajhiri | ₹25,000 |
Baghvan Pench National Park - A Taj Safari Lodge | 5 stars | Touria | ₹38,000 |
Village Machaan Resort | 4 stars | Touria | ₹9,000 |
Pench Jungle Camp | 4 stars | Khawasa | ₹7,000 |
Tathastu Pench - Luxury Wildlife Resort | 3 stars | Touria | ₹16,000 |
Olive Resort - Sillari Pench | 3 stars | Sillari | ₹5,000 |
Sterling Padam Pench | 4 stars | Teliya | ₹8,000 |
Mahua Vann Pench | 3 stars | Touria | ₹9000 |
Tuli Tiger Corridor | 3 stars |
| ₹11,000 |
Hotels in Nagpur
Radisson Blu- We stayed in this 5-star hotel which is situated very close to the airport. It was very convenient as we landed at 9:30 pm and the hotel was just 10 minutes driving distance.
Hotel Onxy - This 3-Star hotel also is a comfortable, clean and convenient option for travellers just to spend a night in Nagpur.
For convenient booking of your hotels/lodges/resorts, you can avail the link provided HERE.
Pugdundee Safaris
Pugdundee Safaris is renowned for its commitment to responsible wildlife tourism in India. The name "Pugdundee" translates to "foot trail" in Hindi, a term commonly used for the well-worn paths found in the Indian jungles. Some of the awards they have won include the TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Award for "Outstanding Community Initiative" and the "Certificate of Excellence" from TripAdvisor for multiple years.
Pugdundee Safaris operates in some of India's most iconic wildlife destinations, including Pench National Park, Kanha Tiger Reserve, Bandhavgarh National Park, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and more.
They make it convenient for tourists to explore these parks by providing a portfolio of safari lodges close to these parks, which are renowned for their commitment to sustainability and responsible eco-tourism practices. Few mentions are Pench Tree Lodge in Pench National Park, Treehouse Hideaway in Bandhavgarh National Park, Ken River Lodge in Panna National Park, and Waghoba Eco Lodge in Tadoba National Park.
Their safari lodges are often located in close proximity to local communities, providing opportunities for cultural exchanges and economic empowerment through tourism. More than 70% of their team consists of local residents.
They have experienced and certified naturalists and guides who truly redefine the Indian safari experience for tourists.
They offer a plethora of experiences such as tracking tigers in the dense forests of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, birdwatching along the banks of the Ken River, a Walking Safari and Camping adventure in Satpura Tiger Reserve, a bicycle expedition from Pench to Kanha through a tiger corridor, a unique wildlife photography experience from professionally built photography hides in Pench & Tadoba and for romantics, a peaceful bush dinner under the starlit sky.
To ensure every moment in the wilderness is filled with wonder and awe, book your safari experience with Pugdundee Safaris. You can email them on enquiry@pugdundeesafaris.com or send them an inquiry on https://www.pugdundeesafaris.com.
Closing Thoughts
I trust that the details shared above have proven useful to you. Should you require further assistance regarding Pench or seek guidance in arranging your safari or accommodations, do not hesitate to contact me. Your exploration of Pench National Park promises to be a memorable adventure, and I am here to ensure your journey is as seamless and fulfilling as possible.
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What an amazing blog. Thanks for this makes our life so much easier to plan our next safari.