Discover the Untamed Wilderness of Pench National Park with Daljit from Korners of India

Nestled in the heart of India, where the Pench river gently cuts through the woodlands, lies the magnificent Pench National Park. This sprawling reserve, spanning 758 sq km, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Join me, Daljit from Korners of India, as I take you on a thrilling safari adventure through this mesmerizing wilderness, sharing insider tips, best times to visit, permit information, and recommended hotels.

Unveiling the Wonders of Pench National Park:

Nestled in the heart of India, Pench National Park holds a special place in the realm of wildlife sanctuaries. Its journey from a sanctuary to a national park in 1975 speaks to its significance, but it was its thriving tiger population that earned it the prestigious title of a tiger reserve in 1992. While the limelight often falls on the Madhya Pradesh portion of Pench, it's essential to acknowledge that nearly 40% of the lush forest stretches into the neighbouring state of Maharashtra. As I, Daljit from Korners of India, lead you on a captivating journey through this pristine wilderness, you'll discover that the animals recognize no boundaries—it's all one harmonious forest.

Pench National Park's allure also lies in its rich history of tiger generations that have roamed its expanse for decades. Among the legends that have graced this sanctuary, the Collarwali Tigress holds a special place in our hearts. In 2022, she bid farewell to this world, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of 29 cubs born through eight litters during her lifetime. Her pioneering role as the first tiger fitted with a radio collar allowed park officials to study her behavior intimately. Before her time, tiger sightings were rare in Pench, but she changed that narrative and became the most sighted tigress, often graciously venturing close to tourist vehicles. Her magnetic presence led to a surge in visitor numbers, and she became a cherished icon among wildlife enthusiasts.

At Pench National Park, you'll be immersed in an awe-inspiring realm where tigers and leopards roam freely across the vast expanse of the forest that spans over 2,000 sq km, straddling both Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. This wilderness sanctuary offers a rare glimpse into the untamed beauty of nature, and each moment spent here is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of all living beings within its boundaries.

Wildlife Encounters at Pench: What to see?

The Bengal Tiger is undoubtedly the star attraction at Pench National Park. Even after 22 years of guiding safaris, every tiger sighting remains just as special to me. Witnessing generations of these majestic creatures in this forest is a true privilege. One remarkable incident that stands out in my memory is when I saw a leopard chasing a spotted deer, only to be confronted by four young tigers, cubs of the famed "badi mata" or the Collarwali Tigress. The chase ended with the leopard seeking refuge up a tree while the tigers circled below, challenging it to face them.

Beyond the captivating big cats, Pench offers a diverse array of wildlife, including wild dogs, Indian gaur, leopards, cheetal, sambar, nilgai, jackals, bison, jungle cats, palm civets, and black bears. The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with sightings of peacocks, crow pheasant, pintail, Indian roller, wagtail, and many others. Even on days with fewer animal sightings, the park always treats visitors to an abundance of birdlife.

For me, guiding a safari is not solely about spotting tigers. I take a more immersive approach, allowing visitors to appreciate the entire ecosystem—the flora, the birds, and even the smallest wonders like flowers and spider webs. I drive at a slow pace, stopping frequently to listen to the jungle's cues. Alarm calls from sambar deer, spotted deer, or monkeys, along with peacock warnings, often signal the presence of predators. The vigilant jungle babblers act as the forest's "police," detecting anything unusual, whether it's an owl, snake, or a jungle cat.

The Best Time to Explore Pench:

When it comes to planning your expedition to Pench National Park, the timing can significantly impact your wildlife encounters. While winter, spanning from November to February, offers pleasant weather and abundant opportunities for observing wildlife and enjoying nature walks, my personal recommendation is to visit between February and March.

During this magical period, the winter starts to retreat, and the scorching summer heat has yet to take its full effect. It's an enchanting time when nature comes alive with the mesmerizing courtship displays of peacocks. Witnessing them spread their magnificent wings to attract peahens during their breeding season is an experience that will leave you spellbound. The forest resonates with the joyful melodies of chirping birds, creating a harmonious symphony that immerses you in the heart of nature's wonders.

As the summer approaches, temperatures can soar to 40°C, making sightseeing challenging, especially for tourists unaccustomed to such harsh weather. However, this time also presents a unique opportunity for thrilling tiger sightings. The dry conditions compel these majestic predators to seek water bodies more frequently, providing a higher likelihood of observing tigers quenching their thirst amidst their natural habitat.

Optimal Safari Frequency and Slots:

For an enriching experience, I recommend at least two to three safaris during a three-night stay, with morning safaris being the most preferred due to their longer duration. The safari slots are as follows:

Morning: 6:00 am to 11:00 am

Afternoon: 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm

Booking Permits and Safari:

To enter Pench National Park, securing a safari permit through the government website is essential. Book well in advance, especially for the popular Turia gate. Permits for Indians cost Rs2,450 on weekdays and Rs3,050 on weekends. Foreign nationals should expect higher rates. At the gate, the forest department will assign you a jeep and guide. Opting for a knowledgeable guide can make a significant difference in your safari experience.

Exploring Different Zones and Activities:

While Turia gate is renowned for tiger sightings, I encourage visitors to explore lesser-known areas, such as the buffer zones, Khursapar gate, and Rukkhad gate. Beyond jeep safaris, consider night safaris for a chance to spot nocturnal creatures. Don't miss out on village walks, cycling, and a tranquil sundowner picnic by the picturesque Kohka lake.

Unwind in Luxurious Jungle Lodges:

For an unforgettable stay, choose from a selection of luxurious jungle lodges like Pench Jungle Camp, Kipling’s Court, Baghvan, Pench Tree Lodge, Regenta Resort Aranyaani Pench, WelcomHeritage Jungle Home, and Jamtara Wilderness Camp.

Getting to Pench National Park:

Located just a two-hour drive from Nagpur, Pench is easily accessible via Nagpur's main airport and railway station.

Join me at Korners of India for an unforgettable journey into the untamed wilderness of Pench National Park. Witness the magnificence of tigers, the serenity of diverse flora and fauna, and the enchanting landscapes that make Pench a true gem in India's wildlife crown. Plan your safari adventure now and experience the true essence of nature in all its glory.