About Pench National Park
Pench National Park lies along the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. It’s best known as the forest that inspired “The Jungle Book,” with shady teak trees, gentle hills, and the Pench River running through. Pench is quieter and more relaxed than many other parks, making it a favorite for families and anyone who enjoys a peaceful safari. Visitors love Pench for its easygoing tiger safaris, beautiful scenery, and the chance to see wildlife without big crowds. Our MP forest tour packages often include Pench for guests who want a softer, storybook-style jungle adventure.
Flora & Fauna
Pench is a mix of teak forests, bamboo groves, and open spaces along the river. It’s a true tiger reserve, but visitors often see wild dogs (dhole), leopards, spotted deer, sambar, and langur monkeys too. The river attracts birds like kingfishers, storks, and eagles, so bring your binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching. Each jungle safari goes through a different safari zone, and local guides know where animals usually gather. No two tours are ever the same—sometimes you spot tigers, other times you see a playful pack of wild dogs or deer drinking at the river.
Safari Booking: How to Book a Jungle Safari
Jeep safari booking in Pench is simple—do it online, through your lodge, or at the park gate (if slots are still open). Each safari zone allows a set number of vehicles, so book early for the best choice of zones and times. Safari charges and prices can change with the season, so check the latest info on the MPForest website or ask your hotel. Bring your booking slip and ID to the park gate for a smooth start.
Pench National Park Core Zones & Entry Gates
| Core Zones | Safari Timings | Entry Gate (Full Vehicle) | Entry Gate (Sharing Basis) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turia | Morning & Evening | Turia | Turia |
| Jamtara | Morning & Evening | Jamtara | Jamtara |
| Karmajhiri | Morning & Evening | Karmajhiri | Karmajhiri |
| Sillari | Morning & Evening | Sillari | Sillari |
| Chorbahuli | Morning & Evening | Chorbahuli | Chorbahuli |
| Khursapar | Morning & Evening | Khursapar | Khursapar |
| Note: Pench Tiger Reserve Core Zone Gypsy Safari remain closed from 1st July to 30th September every year. | |||
Pench National Park Buffer Zones Entry Gates
| Buffer Zones / Sanctuary | Safari Timings | Safari Entry Gate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telia | Morning & Evening | Telia | |
| Rukhad | Morning & Evening | Rukhad | |
| Masoornala | Morning & Evening | Masoornala | |
| Khawasa | Morning & Evening | Khawasa | |
| Note: Pench National Park Buffer Zone Jeep Safari is always open except all Wednesdays Afternoon. | |||
Pench National Park Jeep Safari Charges / Price
| Safari Zone(s) | Particulars | Safari Price (Indians) | Safari Price (Foreigners) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Zones | Up To 6 Adults & 1 Child | INR 8000 | INR 13000 |
| Buffer Zones | Up To 6 Adults & 1 Child | INR 6500 | INR 10000 |
| Sharing Basis | Per Person | INR 700 | INR 1800 |
| Note: Price Includes Gypsy, Guide, Driver, Permit, GST & Service Charges (Applicable Only Full Gypsy Safari) | |||
Best Time to Visit Pench National Park
October to June is the best time to visit Pench National Park. Winter and early spring offer cool weather and green forests, while the hotter months are better for spotting animals as they come to the river to drink. The park is closed during the monsoon (July to September). Book your tiger safari or tour package for the open season for the best experience.
How to Reach Pench National Park?
Pench is easy to reach by road from Nagpur, which has both a busy airport and a main railway station. The drive from Nagpur to Pench takes about two hours on good roads. You can also reach Pench from Jabalpur or Seoni. Most people enter the park through the Turia gate (Madhya Pradesh side), where there are many hotels and lodges. If you book a tour package with us, transport will be for sure arranged for you.
Turia Gate
- Jabalpur – Seoni – Khawasa – Turia : 215 km.
- Nagpur – Khawasa – Turia : 85 km.
- Balaghat – Seoni – Khawasa – Turia : 200 km.
- Seoni – Khawasa – Turia : 110 km.
Karmajhiri Gate
- Nagpur – Suktara – Karmajhiri : 135 km.
- Balaghat – Seoni – Suktara – Karmajhiri : 150 km.
- Jabalpur – Seoni – Suktara – Karmajhiri : 195 km
- Seoni – Suktara – Karmajhiri : 50 km.
Jamtara Gate
- Chhindwara – Bichhua – Pathri – Thotamal – Jamtara : 80 km.
- Chhindwara – Chand – Maghdoun – Thotamal – Jamtara : 59 km.
Tips for a Great Pench Tour
- Try Both Morning and Afternoon Safaris: The jungle feels totally different at sunrise and sunset. Each time offers unique animal activity and lighting for photos.
- Visit the Mowgli Landmarks: Pench inspired The Jungle Book! Ask your guide about the real-life spots that connect to Kipling’s classic.
- Stay Hydrated: It gets surprisingly hot, even in winter. Carry a refillable water bottle—most safaris last over three hours, with limited access to water.
- Don’t Forget Your Binoculars: Pench is a birdwatcher’s dream, especially in winter. Binoculars help you spot owls, hornbills, and even eagles high in the trees.
- Check Safari Zone Entry Points: Pench has several gates—Turia, Karmajhiri, Jamtara. Confirm your safari zone matches your hotel’s location to avoid long early-morning drives.
FAQs
1. Why is Pench called the Jungle Book park?
Pench inspired “The Jungle Book” stories. The forests, river, and animals are a lot like the ones in the book. Guides here sometimes point out places that remind you of Mowgli and Baloo.
2. What animals do people usually see in Pench?
Besides tigers, Pench is good for seeing wild dogs, leopards, deer, langurs, and many birds. Guides know the best spots to look in each safari zone.
3. How do I book a jeep safari in Pench?
You can book online through our website. Booking ahead is best, especially during holidays or weekends, because seats are limited in each zone.
4. Are there things to do for kids in Pench?
Yes! Some lodges have nature walks, simple games, and birdwatching. Many guides like to show kids animal tracks or interesting plants, making safaris more fun for them.
5. When should I visit Pench for good wildlife sightings?
October to June is best. The weather is cooler, and animals are easy to see near water. Book your tours early in the season for more choices.
Have a question or need booking support? Drop us a message at info@mpforesttourism.com and we’ll help you plan your next wild adventure.
