PENCH EXPEDITION: DISCOVERING WILDLIFE SPLENDOUR IN MADHYA PRADESH
Madhya Pradesh, the epitome of India’s heritage, unfolds its natural treasures, inviting travelers to explore a plethora of wildlife thriving in a landscape steeped in history, adorned with vibrant flora and fauna. Holidays in Madhya Pradesh are a unique pleasure, beckoning those who embrace life to the fullest and seek beyond the ordinary to explore the thrill and adventure hidden within its woods. Nestled 201 km from Jabalpur and 93 km from Nagpur, Pench stands out for its Tiger Reserve, predominantly spanning across Madhya Pradesh, making it the ultimate destination to explore in Pench. The reserve derives its name from the Pench River that gracefully meanders through its terrain.
JOURNEY INTO ‘THE JUNGLE BOOK’
No individual traverses through adolescence without encountering the enchanting tale of ‘The Jungle Book.’ Rudyard Kipling’s masterpiece, featuring the escapades of Mowgli, Bagheera, and the villainous Sher Khan, drew inspiration from the captivating beauty of Pench National Park. The locales described in ‘The Jungle Book’ correspond to Alikatta village and the Seeonee hills, earning Pench Tiger Reserve the moniker ‘Land of The Jungle Book.’
FLORA AND FAUNA EXPEDITION
The reserve boasts southern tropical vegetation, characterized by moist teak forests and dry mixed deciduous forests. While renowned as a tiger territory, Pench Tiger Reserve is also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including cheetal (Spotted Deer), leopard, sambhar, gaur (Indian bison), chousingha (four-horned antelope), chinkara (Indian gazelle), barking deer, small Indian civet, and porcupine. Additionally, it provides a habitat for migratory birds such as the Malabar pied hornbill, Indian pitta, and osprey.
WILDLIFE IMMERSION
Embark on jungle walks and safaris to delve into the heart of Pench Tiger Reserve. Engage in short treks and wildlife viewing accompanied by trained guides. Capture breathtaking wildlife shots during this calorie-burning adventure, creating an intriguing Instagram feed. Photographers armed with powerful lenses can relish bird watching and wildlife photography, attempting to capture elusive species at Sita Ghat, Raiyakassa, and Piyorthadi.
IMMERSIVE LOCAL EXPERIENCES
Delve into the rural lifestyle by residing among Gond families at Khamba Village, crafting unique memories. Unleash your creativity at the potter’s colony in Pachdhar village, known for its black pottery. Located 10 km from Turia gate, this village offers a delightful opportunity to fashion a souvenir, preserving the essence of your Pench visit.
THRILL UNLEASHED
Witness tigers, birds, and various animals during day or night safaris or visit the Kariya Summit hill (popularly known as Kalia hill) at Pench Tiger Reserve. Relive the excitement reminiscent of watching Mowgli confront Sher Khan.
OPTIMAL VISITING SEASONS
Optimal visiting months are from October to February when the weather is pleasant, and the jungle thrives in lush greenery. For bird enthusiasts, November to March offers a prime opportunity as migratory birds flock to central India for winter. Avoid the monsoon season as safaris are closed for the safety of both tourists and animals.
NAVIGATING TO PENCH NATIONAL PARK
- By Air: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur and Jabalpur Airport are preferred options. Jabalpur airport is approximately 213 km away, exclusively for domestic flights. The Nagpur Airport, about 130 km away, facilitates both domestic and international arrivals. Taxis are readily available for a comfortable journey to Pench.
- By Rail: Nagpur railway station, approximately 130 km away, offers convenient rail connectivity. Alternatively, Jabalpur railway station, located at a distance of 210 km, is another viable option. Online details checking and train bookings can be made on www.irctc.co.in and www.indianrail.gov.in.
- By Road: Access Pench Tiger Reserve via the Nagpur-Jabalpur Highway. A three to four-hour road journey from Jabalpur or Nagpur leads to Pench. Khawasa or Seoni serve as the closest bus stops, with hourly buses departing from Nagpur.
