Top Sights
Pench National Park Core Zone Safari
Pench National Park Core Zone Safari
The core zone offers the best chance of spotting tigers and other wildlife. This is the heart of the tiger reserve, with strict regulations to protect the environment.
Expect a thrilling jeep safari through dense forests, grasslands, and along riverbeds. You'll be accompanied by a trained guide who will help you spot animals and interpret their behavior. Keep an eye out for pugmarks and alarm calls.
Safaris are conducted in open-top jeeps, and advance booking is essential. The park has multiple entry gates, each offering a unique safari experience.
Hours: 06:00-11:00 & 14:30-17:30 daily
Closed: Wednesdays (some zones)
Best Time: Early morning for cooler temperatures and increased animal activity.
Getting There: Jeep is the only way to access the core zone. Book through your resort or online.
Honest Take: Worth it for serious wildlife enthusiasts; skip if you're only interested in guaranteed tiger sightings.
Insider Tip:
Request a guide with a good reputation for tracking tigers. They can significantly increase your chances of a sighting.
Pench National Park Buffer Zone Safari
Pench National Park Buffer Zone Safari
The buffer zone surrounds the core area and offers a less crowded safari experience. While tiger sightings are less frequent, it's still a great place to see other wildlife and enjoy the scenery.
You'll traverse through a mix of agricultural land, villages, and forests. The buffer zone supports a diverse range of animals and birds. It is also more relaxed with rules compared to the core zone.
Buffer zone safaris are generally cheaper and easier to book than core zone safaris. They offer a good alternative if core zone permits are unavailable.
Hours: 06:00-11:00 & 14:30-17:30 daily
Best Time: Afternoon for better light and potential animal activity near water sources.
Getting There: Jeep is the primary mode of transport. Can be arranged through resorts.
Honest Take: Good for a more relaxed experience and birdwatching; manage expectations for tiger sightings.
Insider Tip:
Pack binoculars for better birdwatching. The buffer zone is home to numerous species of birds.
Karmajhiri Gate
Karmajhiri Gate
Karmajhiri is a popular entry gate to the Pench National Park, known for its dense forests and varied terrain. It offers good opportunities for tiger sightings.
The safari route takes you through undulating hills and dense teak forests. Keep an eye out for sloth bears, wild dogs, and various deer species. The area is scenic and offers great photography opportunities.
Booking in advance is essential as this gate is quite popular. The safari experience is similar to other core zones.
Hours: 6:00-11:00 & 14:30-17:30
Best Time: Early morning for the best chance to spot wildlife.
Getting There: Jeep is the only mode of transport.
Honest Take: Recommended for its scenic beauty and wildlife viewing potential.
Insider Tip:
Check the recent sighting reports before choosing your gate. Karmajhiri is known for its tiger sightings.
Rukhad
Rukhad
Rukhad is a buffer zone known for its diverse birdlife and scenic landscapes. While tiger sightings are less common, it offers a tranquil safari experience.
The terrain is a mix of forest and scrubland, providing habitat for a variety of animals. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature as you explore this area. It's a great option for birdwatchers.
Rukhad is a more affordable and less crowded option compared to the core zones. It's a good choice for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
Hours: 6:00-11:00 & 14:30-17:30
Best Time: Afternoon safaris can be productive as animals seek water during the heat.
Getting There: Jeep safaris are the only way to explore this area.
Honest Take: Great for birdwatching and a peaceful safari experience.
Insider Tip:
Hire a local guide with knowledge of bird calls to enhance your birdwatching experience.
Totladoh Dam
Totladoh Dam
Totladoh Dam is a scenic reservoir located on the Pench River. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
The dam offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills. It's also a good spot for birdwatching, with many species of water birds frequenting the area. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the reservoir.
The dam is a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. It's a good place to escape the heat and enjoy the fresh air.
Hours: Open during daylight hours
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for scenic views and birdwatching.
Getting There: Easily accessible by car or jeep.
Honest Take: A good place for a relaxing break from safaris.
Insider Tip:
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it by the lakeside.
Sillari Gate
Sillari Gate
Sillari is another entry gate to Pench National Park, known for its beautiful landscape and varied wildlife. It is located on the Maharashtra side of Pench.
The safari route takes you through a mix of teak forests and open grasslands. The gate is known for good sightings of tigers and wild dogs. The area has diverse flora and fauna.
The gate can be accessed from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Booking in advance is essential.
Hours: 6:00-11:00 & 14:30-17:30
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon.
Getting There: Jeep safari.
Honest Take: Worth visiting for its scenic beauty and the chance to see a variety of wildlife.
Insider Tip:
Try to book a full-day safari to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife.