Village Walks in Pench
Discover the Soul of Rural Life
A village walk in Pench lets you step into the everyday rhythm of Madhya Pradesh’s Gond and Pardhi tribal communities. These guided walks take you beyond the forest safaris and into peaceful villages surrounded by lush fields, mahua trees, and mud-painted homes.
You’ll see how local people live in harmony with the forest, farming, collecting forest produce, and practicing age-old crafts passed down through generations.
Walking through these villages offers a rare glimpse into authentic rural India, where the pace is slow, smiles are genuine, and life revolves around nature and tradition. It’s a chance to connect deeply with the people who have lived alongside Pench’s wildlife for centuries.
What You’ll Experience
During your Pench village walk, you’ll get to:
- Visit Gond and Pardhi homes adorned with clay walls and tribal murals
- See traditional farming and forest-ased livelihoods in action
- Watch artisans weaving baskets or carving wooden toys
- Explore village shrines, wells, and community gathering spots
- Interact with locals to learn about their customs, beliefs, and folk stories
- Taste local snacks or herbal drinks made from forest ingredients
Each walk is unique, some may include stops at local schools, haats (markets), or farmlands, depending on the season and local events.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for a village walk is early morning (7 AM – 10 AM) or late afternoon (4 PM – 6 PM).The months from October to March are most comfortable, with pleasant weather and lush, green surroundings after the monsoon.
How to Reach
Most village walks begin near Turia Gate, the main entrance to Pench National Park.
Nearby villages include:
- Avarghani Village – 3 km from Turia Gate; known for its welcoming Gond families
- Turia Village – 2 km from the gate; a charming mix of farmlands and forest edges
- Khawasa Village – 12 km away; ideal for a deeper cultural experience
We organize guided village walks led by local naturalists and community members who help you connect meaningfully with Pench’s people and traditions- a perfect complement to your wildlife safari.
