Pench National Park
Exploring the Safari Gates and Zones of Pench National Park: A Wildlife Adventure
Pench National Park, situated in the southern Satpura-Maikal ranges of Central India, is a lesser-known gem that brings humans into close contact with wildlife. Made famous by Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book," this dry mixed forest straddles the borders of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, offering a diverse ecosystem and incredible biodiversity. With a core area of 411.330 sq km and a buffer zone of 768.302 sq km, Pench National Park encompasses a total area of 1179.632 sq km. The park is divided into various gates and zones, each offering unique landscapes, flora, and fauna. In this article, we will delve into the different safari gates and zones of Pench National Park, highlighting their characteristics and attractions.
Turia Gate:
The Turia Gate is located near the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra and is the busiest entry point to Pench National Park. Its proximity to NH 7 makes it easily accessible for tourists. The landscape near Turia Gate comprises mixed vegetation, scrublands, and small streams. The dominant Acacia Catechu trees create a picturesque environment, especially near the famous Baginnalla waterhole. Traveling towards Baginalla and JodaMunara offers a chance to spot the renowned Patdev Tigress, who has given birth to five cubs this year. Additionally, the route leads to Junewani waterhole, known for its breathtaking scenery and the majestic KalaPahad, the highest point in Pench National Park. This area is also known for leopard sightings.
Karmajheri Gate:
Less busy compared to Turia Gate, the Karmajheri Gate provides limited accommodation options, including the renowned Pench Tree Lodge. The forest around this gate is predominantly covered with Teak Trees, which were used for timber production before the area became a tiger reserve. The road leading to Bodhanalla offers bamboo plantations and the opportunity to spot Gaurs, Sambars, and possibly barking deer. The route to Sita Ghat runs parallel to the Pench River, famous for its diverse bird species. During the dry season, tigers can sometimes be spotted resting in the pools formed by the receding river. This area is known for its Wild Dog sightings and serves as the territory of the legendary tigress Collarwali Tigress.
Khursapar Gate:
Located 12 km from the Turia Gate, the Khursapar Gate has gained popularity in recent years due to excellent tiger sightings. The undulating terrain offers sightings of Chowsingha, Chinkara, and Gaurs. Natural water bodies, including Bakhari Lake, add to the charm of this zone.
Sillari Gate:
As the main gate for Pench Maharashtra, the Sillari Gate is located approximately 40 km from the Turia Gate. This area boasts a beautiful forest with dense Bamboo and Teak, numerous water bodies, and captivating waterfalls. Visitors can also witness the Totlah Doh Dam built on the Pench River. The Sillari Gate zone is known for its sightings of Wild Dogs and Sloth Bears.
Jamtara Gate:
The Jamtara Gate provides access to a limited area of Pench National Park. Travelers can cross over to other zones from Chendia Ghat when the river is dry and reach the breakfast point of Alikatta. This less-explored area features Banyan Trees, Shindoori, and Camel foot climbers, making it an ideal spot for Sloth Bear sightings.
Runi-Jhooni Trail:
For those interested in experiencing the jungle on foot, the Runi-Jhooni Trail offers a unique opportunity. This 3 km walking trail provides a glimpse of the core zone of the park and allows visitors to observe animal tracks and signs while indulging in birdwatching. The trail may even present the chance to hear warning calls or witness wildlife sightings. Entry to this trail is from the Karmajheri Gate.
Rukhad Buffer:
Situated in the hilly region, the Rukhad Buffer boasts a moist vegetation cover with abundant Bamboo, Jamun, and Arjun Trees. Flowing streams and a profusion of butterflies enhance the enchanting ambiance. Rukhad serves as a vital tiger corridor for both Pench and Kanha National Parks. The construction of elevated highways with animal crossings has increased tiger sightings in this area, as animals utilize the underpasses. Notable tiger residents include the Kingfisher Male, known for hugging trees to mark territory, as well as the Kuraigad Male and Sambhaji Male. Tigresses such as Masumnala, Sakata, and Daldalli also inhabit this region. In addition to tiger safaris, visitors can opt for cycling or night safaris when staying near the Karmajheri Gate. The Rukhad Gate is located 30 km from Pench Tree Lodge.
Khawasa Buffer:
Known as the Wolf Sanctuary, the Khawasa Buffer offers the opportunity for night safaris. The open wooded forest is particularly favored by animals such as wolves, foxes, porcupines, and owls. This buffer can be easily accessed when staying near the Turia Gate.
Teliya Buffer:
The Teliya Buffer is renowned for its wolf sightings and is also recognized as a habitat for the elusive Black Panther, or Melanistic Leopard. Besides leopards, visitors can enjoy sightings of Barking Deer, Chowsingha, and Blue-Bull Antelope. The Teliya Buffer is conveniently located 4 km from the Turia Gate and 11 km from the Khawasa Buffer Gate. Recent reports have even mentioned a sighting of a black leopard cub less than one month old, adding to the excitement of exploring this area.
Single Seat vs. Full Vehicle:
When embarking on safari experiences in Pench National Park, visitors have the option of choosing between a single seat or a full vehicle. A single seat allows guests to join a shared vehicle with other safari enthusiasts, while a full vehicle provides exclusive use for a group or family. The choice between the two options depends on personal preferences, budget, and the level of privacy and flexibility desired during the safari adventure.
Pench National Park offers a captivating wildlife experience with its diverse gates and zones. Whether entering through the bustling Turia Gate, exploring the less crowded Karmajheri Gate, or venturing into the undulating landscapes of Khursapar Gate, each area reveals unique flora and fauna. The buffer zones provide additional opportunities for nature lovers, including walking trails, night safaris, and the chance to witness the beauty of Rukhad's moist forests or encounter the wildlife inhabitants of Khawasa and Teli