Planning the Best Time to Visit Pench National Park (2024)

Go on a journey to Pench National Park, an expedition into the heart of India’s rich biodiversity and untamed wilderness. As you plan your visit to this natural haven, navigating the seasons becomes critical to unlocking the park’s full splendor. Discovering the best time to visit Pench National Park is not just about timing your adventure but ensuring an immersive experience amidst the vibrant flora and captivating wildlife.

What captivates me most about India is its abundant forests and diverse wildlife. With numerous forests spread across the country, the presence of majestic tigers adds to the allure. That’s why, during my visit to Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh with a friend, we made a deliberate choice to spend a few nights immersed in the natural wonders of Pench National Park.

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About Pench National Park

Founded in 1975, Pench National Park, which also encompasses the Pench Tiger Reserve, is situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh (MP), India. Named after the River Pench that courses through the park, this wildlife sanctuary has garnered acclaim. In 2011, Pench National Park earned the prestigious Best Management Award.

Were you aware that Pench National Park served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book and served as the backdrop for David Attenborough’s wildlife series Tiger: Spy in the Jungle?

How to Get to Pench National Park?

By Air

The closest airport to Pench National Park is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The distance between Nagpur and Pench is a mere 78 kilometers, and the journey by car takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. For convenience, I recommend opting for a taxi as it provides an easier and more efficient mode of transportation to Pench.

Upon arrival at the airport, inquire about taxi services at the information desk, and be sure to negotiate to ensure you secure a fair and accurate fare.

By Public Transport

Getting to Pench National Park via public transport entails a series of steps. Nagpur, with its excellent connectivity, serves as the nearest major city. Nagpur Junction, a key railway station, facilitates smooth train travel. You can take a local bus from Nagpur Junction or hire a taxi directly to Pench National Park. Another option is to reach Nagpur’s Seoni train station and proceed to Pench by bus or taxi. The distance between Seoni railway station and Pench National Park is approximately 120 kilometers. Choose the route that best fits your travel preferences and schedule.

Best Time to Visit Pench National Park

The optimal time to explore Pench National Park is during the winter season, spanning from November to May. The park is open for visitors from 6 to 10:30 AM and from 3 to 6 PM. Notably, Pench National Park is closed during the months of July, August, and September.

Wildlife in Pench National Park

Pench National Park boasts rich biodiversity, housing a diverse range of wildlife. Among its inhabitants are 40 Bengal tigers, along with 13 species of reptiles and various other creatures. Commonly spotted wildlife includes sambar deer, owls, porcupines, monkeys, sloth bears, giant squirrels, and, if fortunate, leopards. The park is also a habitat for Indian gaurs and numerous bird species.

Forests to Visit in India
Jayamangali (Maidanahalli) Blackbuck Sanctuary in Karnataka
Bandipur National Park in Karnataka
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka
Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka
BR Hills in Karnataka
Dandeli in Karnataka
Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
Gir National Park in Gujarat
Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh
Story of expoachers in Manas National Park (Assam)
Pobitara Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam

Adding to its ecological diversity, Pench National Park features a variety of plant and tree species. Teak trees dominate the forest landscape, accompanied by others like haldu and amla. The park’s thriving ecosystem provides a haven for both flora and fauna.

I had the incredible fortune of encountering numerous animals during my visit, including a remarkable sight of 4 to 5 owls. Among the diverse wildlife, I witnessed a leopard, numerous spotted deer, Indian roller, Crested Hawk Eagle, sambar deer, Indian gaurs, kingfisher, peacocks, mongoose, and the distinctive racket-tailed drongo. Although I narrowly missed sighting a tiger by mere seconds, I did come across its pug marks, adding a fascinating touch to the overall experience.

How do you book safaris in Pench National Park and Madhya Pradesh?

I must express my deep admiration for Madhya Pradesh’s forest department. Their streamlined approach to safari bookings is truly commendable. The entire process is efficiently managed online through a single website – a one-stop destination for booking safaris across various national parks and tiger reserves.

Safari Booking Process

Booking these safaris is a hassle-free process that eliminates the need for a travel agent, hotel assistant, or dedicated booking staff. The simplicity of the process allows you to easily manage the bookings independently, ensuring a seamless experience without any unnecessary complications.

Pro Tip: It is advisable to book the safari well in advance to secure your seat.

Booking website: https://forest.mponline.gov.in/#

As previously mentioned, the booking process is straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps to secure your safari:

1. Choose the national park of your preference for booking.
2. Pick the desired date and select your preferred type of seat.
3. Check for availability.
4. Secure your safari seats through the reservation process.

Important Note: Safari fees are to be paid on the day of the safari, and this booking is solely for reserved seats.

My Experience of the Safari

Arriving at the designated spot on our booked day, my friend and I eagerly joined fellow tourists in a jeep for the safari. The entire experience was delightful. What stood out most was the impressive knowledge that our guide/driver possessed about the forest and its inhabitants. Their genuine care for the environment was evident, and it was a pleasant surprise to witness such a level of commitment in India. The fact that the drivers underwent thorough training and acquired extensive knowledge about the forests added to the overall positive experience.

Where to Stay in Pench National Park?

Pench National Park offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to various budgets and preferences, from budgeted stays to luxurious wildlife resorts. Consider Tuli Tiger Corridor in Seoni, Olive Resort Sillari Pench, or Tathastu Pench, Luxury Wildlife Resort, for a comfortable and luxurious experience.

Important Note: Accommodations within the forest are unavailable, but resorts are on the outskirts where visitors can stay during their Pench National Park experience.

Closing Notes

Despite narrowly missing a tiger sighting, my visit to Pench Tiger Reserve was truly enchanting. The distinctive flora and fauna, coupled with the well-maintained forests under government care, created a unique and delightful experience. Witnessing the beauty of these forests is an absolute delight, and I strongly recommend visiting Pench Tiger Reserve during your next trip to Madhya Pradesh. And remember the best time to visit Pench National Park to make the most of your visit.

Also read

• Madhya Pradesh travel diaries

PIN for later reference | Best Time to Visit Pench National Park