Got your eyes set on Pench National Park? Well, planning a trip can be trickier than it looks. Searching for the best places to visit in Pench National Park and booking your stay can quickly become a challenge. Without proper guidance, the excitement of planning can quickly turn into a whirlwind of confusion.
That’s where this travel guide comes in. From the best places to explore to travel tips, we’ve packed it all in to make your Pench National Park experience memorable and truly enjoyable. Book a cab service in Mumbai with Savaari and head to this incredible natural habitat of wildlife, travelling in chauffeur-driven cabs.
Table of Contents
- About Pench National Park
- Things to Do in Pench National Park
- How to Plan a Trip to Pench National Park
- Resorts & Hotels to Stay in Pench
- Nearby Road Trips from Pench
- Useful Links
About Pench National Park
Known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, Pench National Park spans across two states—Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. It’s home to an impressive array of animals, including the majestic Bengal tiger, elusive leopards, and an abundance of bird species.
Not to mention, the park inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book (1894), where characters like Mowgli and Bagheera roam the forests.
History of Pench National Park
The story about Pench National Park starts back in 1975 when it was officially established as a wildlife sanctuary. Fast forward to 1992, and Pench became part of the Project Tiger initiative, aimed at protecting and conserving the iconic Bengal tiger.
The park’s name comes from the Pench River, which flows gracefully through its heart, further amplifying the scenic beauty of this wildlife haven. Over the years, Pench has evolved into a key destination for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and anyone seeking to witness nature at its finest.
Pench National Park: Forest and Wildlife
The heart of Pench lies in its dense, lush forests, providing a diverse habitat for numerous species. Spread across the Seoni and Chhindwara districts, the park nurtures about 1,000 plant varieties, including trees, shrubs, and medicinal plants. The park is also home to open grasslands and vegetation along the Pench River, which supports its wildlife.
Wildlife in Pench National Park
The park holds a reputation for being one of the finest tiger reserves in India. Alongside these apex predators, the park is home to diverse animals, including:
- Carnivores: Leopards, wild dogs, jackals, hyenas, and jungle cats.
- Herbivores: Gaur, sambar, chital, nilgai, and wild boar.
- Other Mammals: Sloth bears, porcupines, and civets.
For bird lovers, Pench offers a chance to see over 210 species of birds. Residents like the Indian roller, peafowl, and wagtail are common, while migratory birds like the ruddy shelduck visit seasonally.
Flora in Pench National Park
The forests of Pench are home to trees such as:
- Teak
- Bamboo
- Salai
- Mahua
- Tendu
- Arjuna
- Palash
Interesting Facts About Pench National Park
- Historical Ruins: Nearby, you can explore the remnants of an ancient fort built by the Gond kings, adding a layer of history to the area.
- Pench Tiger Reserve: The reserve is a popular spot for tiger sightings and is one of the best places in India to catch a glimpse of the Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat.
- The Rare Black Panther: Pench is one of the few places in India where you might have the rare opportunity to spot a black panther.
- The Tribal Influence: The local tribes, like the Gond and the Baiga, have lived in harmony with the forest for centuries. Some of the tribal guides can spot animals and plants that others would miss.
Top Reasons to Visit Pench National Park
With plenty of places to visit, Pench National Park is the kind of place that makes you fall in love with nature all over again. Here are some of the top reasons why you need to add it to your travel list:
- Perfect for Nature Photography: Pench is a photographer’s dream. From the tall trees to the shimmering lakes, every corner of the park offers an incredible shot.
- Peaceful and Scenic Vibes: With areas like Sillari and Rukhad Lake, the park gives off a tranquil vibe, perfect for those looking to disconnect from the noise and enjoy the simple beauty of nature.
- A Real Jungle Adventure: The Teliya and Karmajhiri zones let you experience the jungle in its rawest form, where you’re surrounded by towering trees, flowing rivers, and the occasional roar of a tiger in the distance.
Things to Do in Pench National Park
The park’s diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity offer endless adventures for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Here are some things to do in Pench National Park:
- Jungle Safaris: Nothing surpasses the thrill of a jungle safari in the park. Visit areas like Teliya and Karmajhiri to observe tigers, leopards, and other wildlife up close. Morning safaris are particularly popular for tiger sightings because the big cats are more active during cooler hours.
- Mowgli Palace Visit: For fans of The Jungle Book, Mowgli Palace is a must-see. Located near the Turia Gate, this historic spot is where Kipling is said to have drawn inspiration for his famous novel. Explore the region to learn about the park’s literary past and participate in an adventure that has shaped countless imaginations.
- Nature Walks: Sign up for a nature walk to get a more personal experience of the park. These walks, led by skilled experts, lead you into tranquil areas like Sillari and Karmajhiri, where you’ll discover the park’s lesser-known attractions. It’s perfect for those who want to learn more about the forest beyond the wildlife.
- Birdwatching: Pench is the ideal site for those who enjoy birdwatching. More than 280 bird species can be found here, including the Indian Roller and Malabar Pied Hornbill. For the best birdwatching experience, visit Rukhad Lake or Jamtara Zone.
Things to Do Around Pench National Park
Source: Thrillophilia
If you want to explore some good places, there are many great spots just a short drive away. Here are some simple and fun things to do around Pench National Park:
- Explore the Pench Jungle Camp: Just a short distance away from the park, the Pench Jungle Camp Resort is a great place to stay if you want to experience the jungle. You can enjoy nature, relax by the campfire, and even see some wildlife around the camp. It offers a cozy stay, perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful and fun way to be closer to nature.
- Pench River Viewpoint: Just a few minutes away from the park, the Pench River Viewpoint is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the view of the river. It’s a quiet spot where you can watch birds and monkeys or just enjoy the fresh air. It’s a great place to take some photos or sit and take in the beauty of nature.
- Boating on Pench Lake: A quick drive from the park, Pench Lake is a calm spot where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride. You can watch the birds, spot some fish, and enjoy the quiet beauty around the lake.
Places to Visit in Pench National Park
Pench National Park is surrounded by several captivating destinations. Here are some noteworthy places to visit for your weekend getaway:
Sanchi
It is located 400 km from Pench, is an ancient Buddhist site that dates back to the 3rd century BC. Famous for the Sanchi Stupa, built by Emperor Ashoka, it’s one of the oldest surviving stone structures in India. The Ashoka Pillar and The Great Bowl are other cultural bounties of the site.
Kanha National Park
Just a 4-hour road trip from Pench and spanning over 940 square kilometers, Kanha National Park is home to tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and a variety of other species. The rugged terrain and vast forests, with its rich biodiversity and impressive conservation efforts, make the experience of going on a safari here unmatched.
Ramtek
Ramtek, located around 40 km from Pench, is an ancient pilgrimage site with deep spiritual significance. The Ramtek Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, is believed to be the place where he took a break during his exile. The Jain temple, Khindsi Lake, and the waterfall at Totladoh are also notable attractions in the area.
Chikhaldara
Situated 300 km from Pench, Chikhaldara is Maharashtra’s only hill station. Known for its coffee plantations, this charming town offers a break from the mundane. Its cool climate, scenic views, and historical sites like Gawilgarh Fort, Bhimkund, Narnala Fort, and Muktagiri make it a perfect weekend getaway.
How to Plan a Trip to Pench National Park
Planning your trip to Pench National Park can be so much fun! First, you’ll need to plan where to stay, so there are some nice places around the park, like resorts, lodges, or even campsites. Once you’ve decided when and where to stay, think about how you’ll get there. You can travel by train, road, or flight. Each way is great, depending on how much time you have and what you’re comfortable with.
After you’ve planned your travel, don’t forget to book your safari slots and look for any other activities nearby, like nature walks or visiting local villages.
How to Reach Pench
If you are wondering about how to reach Pench National Park, here are the different modes of transport you can opt for your travel. Let’s take a closer look:
By Train
Taking the train to Pench is a good option if you’re not in a hurry. The nearest station is Seoni Railway Station (about 85 km away). It has good train connections with big cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bhopal, and Pune.
Once you reach, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Pench. Consider booking a ride through the Savaari cab booking app for a comfortable journey from the station.
By Road
Traveling by road is a great option. From Nagpur, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the park (about 80 km). The drive is nice and scenic, and you get to see lots of beautiful nature along the way.
If you’re coming from Mumbai, Pune, or Bhopal, some highways will take you directly to Pench. Consider booking a car rental in Mumbai with Savaari for a hassle-free ride to Pench.
By Flight
If you’re flying in, the nearest airport to Pench National Park is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur (85.5 km away). It’s about 2-3 hours away from Pench. The airport is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Use the Savaari car rental app to book an airport taxi in Nagpur for a seamless airport pickup and enjoy a stress-free ride to the park.
Best Time to Visit Pench
The best time to visit Pench National Park is between October and June. The weather in Pench during the monsoon season (July to September) is nice for the greenery, but the park can get a little slippery, and some safaris might get canceled. So, winter is the best time to visit Pench.
Travel Tips for Visiting Pench National Park
Before you pack your bags and head to Pench, here are some travel tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly:
- Pack light: You won’t need too many clothes, just light, breathable clothes for the day and a warm jacket for the cool evenings.
- Sunscreen and hats: Protect your skin from the sun, especially if you’re going on a safari in the middle of the day.
- Camera: You’ll want to capture all the wildlife and nature around you, so don’t forget your camera or phone.
- Binoculars: If you’re serious about spotting wildlife, bring some binoculars. You’ll get a better view of the animals from a distance.
- Insect repellent: You never know when the bugs will strike, so keep some repellent handy.
Pench National Park Safari Timings and Entry Fee
There are morning and evening safaris to choose from, and both are great for spotting wildlife. The morning safari starts at 6 AM and goes till about 11 AM. You’ll catch the animals while they’re still active, and it’s a cooler time to explore. The evening safari starts around 3 PM and goes till 6 PM. Please note that it is closed from July to September.
Pench National Park Entry fee:
Here’s what you need to know about Pench National Park safari booking.
| Type | Madhya Pradesh (INR) | Maharashtra (INR) |
| Jeep Safari | Weekdays: 7,500/Jeep (Indian), 12,000/Jeep (Foreigner) | Weekdays: 6,500/Jeep (Indian/Foreigner) |
| Weekends: 8,500/Jeep (Indian), 18,000/Jeep (Foreigner) | Weekends: 7,000/Jeep (Indian/Foreigner) | |
| Sharing Safari | Weekdays: 2,000/Seat (Indian), 3,000/Seat (Foreigner) | N/A |
| Weekends: 2,300/Seat (Indian), 4,000/Seat (Foreigner) |
Maximum Capacity: 6 adults + 2 children (under 5 years).
Booking Guidelines:
- Bookings open 120 days in advance.
- ID proof (Aadhar, passport, etc.) used during booking must be carried to the safari.
- Safari fees include permits, guide charges, and vehicle costs.
- Safari bookings are non-cancellable, non-transferable, and non-refundable.
- Arrival at the gate 30 minutes before the scheduled time is recommended.
For more details, visit the official Pench National Park website. The safari booking charges can change depending on the time of year, so it’s best to check in advance and book your safari early to get the best spots!
Things to Do in Pench for Free
If you’re looking to explore more of Pench beyond the usual safari experience, here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Pench that will make it even more memorable.
- Runi Jhuni Nature Walking Trail: The Runi Jhuni Nature Walking Trail is a short walk through the forest, where you can see deer, langurs, and many birds. It’s a calm and beautiful way to connect with nature and feel the magic of Pench. The trail is just 10-15 minutes away from Pench National Park.
- Potter’s Village at Pachdhar: Potter’s Village at Pachdhar is a special place. Just 42 km from this national park, this village is home to potters who create beautiful clay items. You can watch them work, try pottery yourself, or buy a lovely souvenir.
- Visit the Local Village Market: Markets are found in places like Vijaypani, Khamba, and Belpath and offer organic products and handmade crafts. While you explore, you might even get invited to a local home for a traditional meal.
- Cycling Tour to Rukhad: For a fun adventure, try the cycling tour to Rukhad. It’s a 22 km ride through beautiful forests, and you might see animals like peacocks, gaurs, and jackals along the way. It’s an exciting way to explore Pench, and the best part is ending the day camping under the stars.
Resorts & Hotels to Stay in Pench
Here’s a quick guide to some of the best hotels and resorts in the area. Find your perfect stay with ease using the details below:
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
| Pench Tree Lodge | Village Sara Hiri, Madhya Pradesh | +91 9810383711 |
| Olive Resort, Turia | Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh | +91 8888882267 |
| Tiger N Woods Resort | Near Turia Gate, Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh | +91 9575100094 |
| Pench Jungle Camp | Village Avarghani, Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh | +91 9999742000 |
| Tuli Tiger Corridor Resort | Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh | +91 7126653666 |
Nearby Road Trips From Seoni
Here are several road trip destinations you can consider from Seoni:
| Destination | Distance by Road (approx) |
| Seoni to Pachmarhi Hill Station | 207 km |
| Seoni to Mandla | 117 km |
| Seoni to Jabalpur | 147 km |
Pench National Park awaits with its enchanting wilderness and majestic tigers. Ready for an adventure? Savaari Car Rentals makes your trip easy and fun, so you can enjoy every moment. Book your ride with Savaari’s cab booking app and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the wild!
Useful Links
Last Updated on March 11, 2025 by V Subhadra
