About the Park

Straddling the borders of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park lies in the southern reaches of the Satpura Hills. Named after the Pench River, which flows through its center, the park covers an area of about 758 sq km including core and buffer zones.
Declared a tiger reserve in 1992, Pench is part of the larger Pench Tiger Reserve, known for its rich wildlife and scenic teak forests. The landscape of gentle hills, open meadows, and winding streams inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book – making Pench a forest of both story and spirit.

Wildlife & Habitat

Pench’s forests are vibrant and full of life.

  • Key Species: Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, wild dog (dhole), sloth bear, Indian gaur, and sambar deer.
  • Notable Sightings: Tigers are often seen along the Pench River, and wild dogs are commonly spotted in packs.
  • Birdlife: Over 300 bird species including Malabar pied hornbill, grey-headed fish eagle, and Indian pitta.
  • Habitat: A mix of dry deciduous teak forests, bamboo thickets, and open grasslands, offering excellent visibility for wildlife viewing.

Safari Experience

Safaris in Pench offer a blend of thrill and tranquility, with well-marked trails through beautiful terrain.

  • Safari Types: Jeep Safari (main mode), Canter Safari (group), and limited night safaris in buffer zones.
  • Safari Zones (Madhya Pradesh Side):
    • Turia Zone: The most popular gate, known for frequent tiger sightings.
    • Karmajhiri Zone: Quieter, scenic, and rich in birdlife.
    • Jamtara Zone: Remote and peaceful, great for nature photography.
  • Safari Zones (Maharashtra Side):
    • Sillari and Khursapar Gates: Equally rewarding and less crowded.
  • Timings:
    • Morning: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    • Evening: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (varies seasonally)
  • Bookings: Safari permits can be booked online via the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department website or through authorized resorts.

Best Time to Visit

  • Open Season: October 1 to June 30.
  • Peak Wildlife Season: February to April – the forest is dry, and animals gather near water sources.
  • Winter (Nov – Jan): Pleasant weather and good for birdwatching.
  • Summer (May – June): Hot but excellent for big cat sightings.
  • Monsoon (July – Sept): Park remains closed for breeding and greenery restoration.

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Nagpur (92 km) – the most convenient option.
  • Nearest Railway Station: Seoni (30 km) or Nagpur (90 km).
  • By Road: Easily accessible from Nagpur, Jabalpur (210 km), and Seoni (30 km) by well-maintained roads.

Where to Stay

  • Near Turia Gate (Madhya Pradesh Side):
    • Pench Tree Lodge: Luxury eco-lodge set amid forest surroundings.
    • Tuli Tiger Corridor: Upscale resort with safari-style tents and cottages.
    • Village Machaan Resort: Mid-range option close to the gate.
    • Baghvan by Taj Safaris: Premium stay known for guided nature walks.
  • Near Sillari Gate (Maharashtra Side):
    • Olive Resort Pench: Comfortable and family-friendly.
    • Forest Rest Houses: Basic but atmospheric, managed by the forest department.

Travel Tips / Park Rules

  • Carry a valid photo ID for each visitor on safari.
  • Book permits and safari vehicles well in advance.
  • Keep quiet during safaris – sound carries easily in the forest.
  • Avoid bright colors; wear earthy tones.
  • Do not litter, feed animals, or get off the vehicle.
  • Evenings can get cool; keep a light jacket handy.
  • Cash is useful in local areas – card connectivity may be patchy.

Packing List

  • Neutral-colored clothes (cotton or linen)
  • Light jacket or fleece
  • Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Binoculars and camera
  • Refillable water bottle
  • ID proofs and permit printouts
  • Insect repellent and basic medicines
  • Sturdy walking shoes

Visitor Statistics

Pench National Park draws around 200,000 visitors annually. The Turia Gate remains the busiest and most popular entry point, while Khursapar and Sillari Gates offer a quieter, equally rewarding experience.

Conservation & Responsible Travel

Pench is one of the most successful Project Tiger reserves, known for strong conservation management.

  • The park’s tiger population has steadily grown, supported by effective anti-poaching patrols and community participation.
  • The Pench Tiger Foundation works closely with local villagers to promote sustainable livelihoods and reduce dependency on forest resources.

To travel responsibly

  • Choose eco-certified lodges that employ local guides.
  • Use refillable bottles, avoid single-use plastics.
  • Respect wildlife and keep noise low during safaris.
  • Support local art and produce to help the community thrive.