The Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra offer Pench National Park as a wildlife sanctuary for photography enthusiasts and nature enthusiasts. Various cat species such as tigers and leopards share habitat with Indian bison and wild dogs in this conservatory area. With dense teak forests, open grasslands and the serene Pench River and is an enchanting destination as it is. Pench National Park must be a dream destination for those willing to experience the actual place where Mowgli would have been roaming the jungles to listen to the mystical sounds of the night and fend off adversary animals. Pench National Park delivers an everlasting wild experience through its exciting jeep safari or relaxed nature trails as well as welcoming its guests to enter the untamed zone.
Pench National Park - The Land of Mowgli
India ranks Pench National Park as one of its leading wildlife destinations because it serves as both a tiger reserve and a sanctuary for 285 bird species throughout Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra territories. The Rudyard Kingling used Pench Park as the setting for his famous novel "The Jungle Book".
How to reach Pench National Park
If you are wondering where Pench National Park is and how to reach it, here is a complete breakdown of all the ways you can reach it here.
By Air: Visitors reaching the Pench National Park from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport located in Nagpur will need to drive 90 km northwest. The airport provides two transportation options, hired taxis and private cabs that lead to the park.
By Rail:
The nearest railway stations are:
- Nagpur Railway Station (90 km) – Well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
- Seoni Railway Station (30 km) – A smaller station with limited train connectivity.
- Taxi services together with bus routes depart from these transportation stations to Pench National Park.
By Road: Travelers can reach the park by using normal bus services and private taxi options that depart from Nagpur and Jabalpur.
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The Best Time to Visit Pench National Park
Tourists can explore Pench National Park from October 16 to June 30 as it is closed during the monsoon season.
- Winters (November to February): This period is ideal for tourists who like pleasant weather and are interested in bird watching. Temperatures range from 10-20 degree Celsius.
- Summers (March to June): Temperatures remain high during this period, ideal for spotting big cats and other wild animals.
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Things to Do in Pench National Park
Here is a list of all the top things to do in Pench National Park to have the best experience exploring the wildlife.
1. Jungle Safari – Witness the Wild Up Close
Jungle safaris in Pench National Park provide exclusive core zone exploration during which visitors can see Bengal tigers along with leopards, wild dogs sambar deer jackals and many additional wildlife species. The safari route leads through both crammed forest areas and flat grasslands and continues to watering spots making wildlife observation more likely. The probability of viewing tigers during dawn excursions is greater than during other times of day.
- Timings:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Afternoon Safari: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹1,550 – ₹2,500 per jeep (up to 6 people)
- Duration: 3 – 4 hours
2. Night Safari – Discover the Jungle’s Nocturnal Life
A night safari tour presents visitors with a specific opportunity to witness civets and also porcupines hyenas and owls that become active during nighttime. The transformation of the thick forest wilderness under night lights produces a magical atmosphere that generates a thrill from spotting luminous animal eyes.
- Timings: 7:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹1,200 per jeep (up to 6 people)
- Duration:2-3 hours
- Best Zone: Rukhad Buffer Zone
Suggested Read: Top 5 National Parks in Meghalaya that will take your breath away
3. Birdwatching – A Haven for Bird Lovers
Birdwatchers and photographers find Pench as the ideal destination because its 285 bird species make it attractive for their purposes. Spot Indian Pitta, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Grey-Headed Fish Eagle along the rivers and in the dense woods.
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee: Included in park entry fee
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Best Spots: Pench Reservoir, Karmajhiri Gate, Turia Buffer Zone
4. Visit the Pench Interpretation Centre
At Turia Gate, visitors can access this educational information centre dedicated to Pench wildlife and historic background as well as local conservation efforts. Before going on safari visitors should explore the abundant natural biodiversity of the region through this activity.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
Best Places to Visit Around Pench National Park
Pench National Park provides something for everyone. You can explore charming reservoirs historical landmarks and wildlife heaven.
1. Totladoh Dam - A charming reservoir
The tremendous Totladoh Dam construction on the Pench River lets visitors admire scenic landscapes between lush forests and mountain ranges. As a water provider to Nagpur city, it serves as an ecologically important area. This picnic location offers the ideal environment because of its peaceful atmosphere. Birdwatchers and photographers will enjoy this location because multiple bird species reside here. The dam exhibits its most spectacular beauty during heavy rainfall season thus becoming the top travel period.
- Location: 35 km from Pench National Park
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: July–September
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2. Ramtek Temple – A Sacred and Historical Landmark
People consider the Ramtek Temple to be the resting place of Lord Rama when he was in exile. The building displays outstanding architectural designs through its careful pillar work and detailed stone carvings. The temple complex contains various small shrines meant to worship Hindu deities. You can enjoy an extraordinary panoramic view over the surrounding terrain from the vantage point at the hilltop. The region holds religious importance but also maintains an association with Sanskrit poet Kalidasa who allegedly composed part of his writings in this area.
- Location: 60 km from Pench National Park
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Duration: 1 – 2 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset for peaceful tranquillity.
3. Pachmarhi – The Queen of Satpura Hills
Pachmarhi is Madhya Pradesh's sole hill station and attracts visitors with its abundant forests falling waterfalls and historical caves. This Biosphere Reserve recognized by UNESCO contains adventure activities together with its historic monuments and natural beauty. The area features the famous Bee Falls and Apsara Vihar waterfalls together with the historical Jata Shankar and Pandav Caves and the high point Dhupgarh in Madhya Pradesh. The natural environment of Pachmarhi includes wildlife populations and rare plant species thus attracting nature enthusiasts and hiking enthusiasts to the destination. Visitors can enjoy the pleasant weather at this destination any time of year because of its ideal weather conditions.
- Location: 200 km from Pench National Park
- Entry Fee: Free (some attractions may charge ₹20 – ₹50)
- Timings: Open all day
- Duration: 1 – 2 days
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
4. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary – Wildlife Haven
Tourists can explore the wonderful wildlife attractions of Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary maintains its status as a biodiverse hotspot because it offers sanctuary to Bengal tigers and leopards as well as sloth bears and Indian bison and bird species. During jeep safaris at the sanctuary, you can roam across deep forests while looking for elusive animals. Wildlife enthusiasts find photography opportunities at the charming Nagzira Lake which attracts different species of migratory birds.
- Location: 140 km from Pench National Park
- The entry fee for visitors amounts to ₹250 per person while the jeep safari costs extra.
- Timings:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Afternoon Safari: 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: November to May
5. Kohka Lake – A Hidden Gem Near Pench
Kohka Lake represents a charming hidden nature retreat that exists only a few kilometres from Pench National Park. Visitors find beauty in the lake because it rests enveloped by forested lands while revealing magnificent sunset views. Boating and birdwatching with nature walks are available to visitors at the lake. The tranquil surroundings here provide the ideal setting for peaceful relaxation while the public stays elsewhere.
- Location: 3 km from Pench National Park
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open all day
- Duration: 1 – 2 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Evening hours for the beautiful sunset view over the lake.
6. Pench River – A Tranquil Riverside Experience
The national park draws its water supply from the Pench River as it runs through its territory. During dry periods this river serves as an attractive spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers while drawing various bird species as well as deer and tigers. Specific stretches of river territory provide suitable locations for both picnics and relaxing walking. The peaceful water currents against the green wilderness in this area provide an ideal location to relax.
- Location: Inside Pench National Park
- Entry Fee: Included in the park entry fee
- Timings: Open during safari hours
- Duration: 1 – 2 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Winter months (November–February)
Conclusion
As a wildlife daytime enthusiast, nature lover and adventure seeker one must visit Pench National Park. Pench gives you much to do – whether you’re looking to explore the jungle on a safari, watch rare birds or discover nearby attractions, Pench is an experience that you will simply not forget. A rich biodiverse and thrilling safari coupled with a deep connection to The Jungle Book, Pench is a good spot to experience the beauty of the wild. Don’t miss planning your trip today and see the true India’s wildlife in its cleanest, richest form!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time to visit Pench National Park?
It is best to visit between October to June, and April to May serves best to visit tiger sightseeing.
2. Is Pench National Park safe for tourists?
Of course, the park follows its safety guidelines and safaris are conducted by trained professionals.
3. Pench National Park is in which state?
One of the most popular wildlife reserves, Pench National Park is located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh and is well connected with all the major cities.
4. How many days are enough for Pench National Park?
One can spend a 2 to 3 days trip to explore the wildlife, safaris and other attractions close by.
5. Do I need to book safaris in advance?
Yes, in the peak season, safaris should be booked online in advance.
