About Pench National Park
Park History and Other Information
Pench national park is present in the areas of both Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. It is located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts. This national park was dedicated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1977. Soon later, in 1983, it was designated as a National Park. Pench received the official designation as a Tiger Reserve in 1992.
The renowned novelist Rudyard Kipling was inspired by the flora and fauna of the Pench National park and therefore he created the world-famous “Jungle Book”. Novel lovers, animal enthusiasts, and adventure seekers from all over the world travel to Pench to view the woodland described in Rudyard Kipling’s book.
Pench is notably well-known for the legendary Collerwali, who resided here and captivated the hearts of everybody who came to see her.
History
Below is the historical significance that happened to the Pench starting from the year 1977
1977
The Pench forest area was officially declared a Wildlife Sanctuary, marking the beginning of formal protection efforts.
1983
Pench was established as a National Park, covering 292 sq km, to safeguard its unique ecosystem and rich wildlife diversity.
1992
The park was included under Project Tiger and declared the 19th Tiger Reserve of India, giving it national importance for tiger conservation.
1998
The adjoining forests in Maharashtra were recognized as Pench Wildlife Sanctuary, strengthening the regional conservation network.
2002
The Maharashtra part was upgraded to Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra), making Pench one of India’s few interstate tiger reserves shared by two states.
2008-10
The park gained international fame after the BBC documentary “Tiger: Spy in the Jungle”, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, was filmed here, showcasing the lives of Pench’s tigers.
2011
Pench emerged as one of India’s best-managed tiger reserves, with increasing tiger numbers, sustainable eco-tourism, and strong local community involvement.
Best Time to Visit
Winter (November to February)
Summer (March to June)
Hot and dry days, but the best time for tiger sightings. As water sources shrink, animals frequently gather around rivers, ponds, and artificial waterholes – offering excellent chances of spotting tigers, leopards, and other wildlife up close. Early morning safaris are most rewarding.
Monsoon (July to September)
Things to do in Pench
Jeep Safari
Canter Safari
Birding in Pench
Photography
Best Selling Packages
2 Nights / 3 Days
Pench Weekend Tour
3 Nights / 4 Days
Pench Budget Tour
6 Nights / 7 Days
Pench – Bandhavgarh Safari
14 Nights / 15 Days
Pench, Bandhavgarh & Golden Triangle Tou
FAQs – Pench National Park
Where is Pench National Park located?
Pench National Park is situated in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh, and also extends into Maharashtra. It lies in central India along the Satpura mountain ranges.
When was Pench declared a National Park?
Pench was declared a National Park in 1983 and became a Tiger Reserve in 1992 under Project Tiger.
What is Pench National Park famous for?
Pench is famous for its Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs (dhole), and for inspiring Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” It’s also known for excellent wildlife photography and bird watching.
What animals can I see in Pench?
You can see Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, gaur (Indian bison), sambar, chital (spotted deer), and over 250 species of birds, including peafowl and hornbills.
When is the park open for visitors?
Pench National Park is open from October to June every year.
It remains closed during the monsoon season (July to mid – October) due to heavy rains and breeding season for wildlife.
What is the best time to visit Pench National Park?
The best time to visit is from October to June.
- Winter (Nov – Feb): Pleasant weather, great for photography and birding.
- Summer (Mar – Jun): Hot but ideal for tiger sightings.
How can I reach Pench National Park?
- By Air: Nearest airport is Nagpur (90 km).
- By Train: Nearest railway stations are Nagpur and Seoni.
- By Road: Easily accessible via NH44 (Nagpur – Jabalpur highway).
How many safari zones are there in Pench?
On the Madhya Pradesh side, there are Turia, Karmajhiri, and Jamtara zones.
On the Maharashtra side, there are Sillari, Khursapar, and Kolitmara zones.
What types of safaris are available?
Visitors can enjoy Jeep Safaris, Canter Safaris, and Night Safaris (in buffer zones). Online booking is available through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department website.
Are accommodations available near Pench?
Yes, a range of options are available near Turia Gate, Karmajhiri Gate, and Sillari Gate, from budget lodges to luxury resorts like Taj Baghvan, Pench Jungle Camp, and Tuli Tiger Corridor.
Is Pench suitable for family trips?
Yes! Pench is safe, family-friendly, and offers eco-tourism activities, nature walks, and village visits alongside safaris.
National Parks Near Pench
Kanha National Park
Tadoba National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park
Satpura National Park