Pench National Park

Pench National Park is in Central India. About 90% of the park is in Madhya Pradesh while the remaining 10% is in Maharashtra.

Near Pench is also Seoni, known for its connection to Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book. Visitors to this region can explore its rich biodiversity, enjoy jeep safaris, and experience the local culture. Seoni's serene landscapes and proximity to Pench make it a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Pench National Park spans 758 km². The park has various species of animals, among which the deer, wild gaurs, and monkeys are easy to spot. The tigers and the lions are difficult to watch as they do not come on the safari trail often.

This forest inspired Rudyard Kipling to write the famous novel The Jungle Book.

Pench National Park has a rich and fascinating history that is closely connected with the forests, wildlife, rivers, and tribal landscape of central India. Located across the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh, with the larger Pench landscape extending into Maharashtra, the region has been known for its abundant forests and wildlife for centuries. The area also finds historical mention in the Ain-i-Akbari, the famous 16th-century work written during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar, which describes the natural wealth and resources of the region. In the 19th century, the forests around Seoni attracted the attention of British officers, naturalists, and explorers who documented the area's wildlife and landscapes. The region later became particularly famous through the writings of Robert Armitage Sterndale, whose descriptions of the Seoni forests and wildlife contributed to the literary image of central India's jungle. These accounts are also closely associated with the background that inspired Rudyard Kipling's famous The Jungle Book, with the forests of the Seoni–Pench region often regarded as an important part of the setting and inspiration behind the stories of Mowgli, Sher Khan, and the jungle world.

The modern conservation history of Pench began with increasing efforts to protect its forests and wildlife from hunting, habitat pressure, and other human activities. In 1977, an area of approximately 449.39 square kilometres was notified as Pench Sanctuary/Game Sanctuary, marking an important step toward the formal protection of the region's natural resources. The protected area included forests on both sides of the Pench River and covered parts of the Seoni and Chhindwara forest divisions. Conservation measures were gradually strengthened, including regulation of entry, grazing, collection of minor forest produce, forestry activities, fire protection, and hunting-related activities. In 1983, a portion of the sanctuary covering approximately 292.85 square kilometres was declared Pench National Park, giving the area a higher level of legal protection and creating a dedicated space for conserving its forests and wildlife.

The next major chapter in the history of Pench came in 1992, when the wider Pench landscape was brought under Project Tiger and declared the 19th Tiger Reserve of India. This was a significant milestone because it placed greater emphasis on the protection of the Bengal tiger as well as the entire forest ecosystem on which the tiger and other wildlife depend. The reserve was subsequently managed through a combination of a protected core area and surrounding buffer areas, with conservation activities focusing on habitat improvement, wildlife monitoring, protection against poaching, water availability, and the maintenance of healthy forest ecosystems. The Pench River, which flows through the landscape from north to south, remains one of the most important geographical features of the reserve and divides the forest into eastern and western sections.

Over the years, the protected landscape continued to develop. The Madhya Pradesh portion of Pench was later associated with the names Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park and Pench Mowgli Sanctuary, reflecting both the area's conservation importance and its famous connection with the world of Mowgli. The wider Pench Tiger Reserve today represents a much larger conservation landscape than the original national park, incorporating core and buffer forests and connecting important habitats across the region. The Maharashtra side of Pench also forms an important part of this larger interstate wildlife landscape. Together, these protected forests provide habitat for Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, gaur, sambar, chital, wild boar, numerous bird species, reptiles, and many other forms of wildlife.

Today, the history of Pench National Park is not simply the story of a forest being declared a protected area; it is the story of a landscape gradually moving from a historically important hunting and forest region toward a major centre of wildlife conservation. Its historical references, association with the Seoni forests and The Jungle Book, establishment as a sanctuary in 1977, declaration as a national park in 1983, and inclusion in Project Tiger in 1992 have all contributed to its identity as one of central India's important wildlife destinations. Modern conservation efforts continue to focus on protecting the tiger and other species, preserving dry deciduous forests, maintaining water sources and grasslands, controlling threats such as poaching and forest degradation, and balancing wildlife protection with the needs of communities living around the reserve. Today, Pench is therefore valued not only for its scenic forests and opportunities for wildlife safaris, but also for its historical, ecological, and cultural significance as one of India's well-known tiger landscapes.

Pench National Park is situated in the southern reaches of the Satpura hill ranges and is characterized by a beautiful combination of undulating hills, valleys, forests, grasslands, streams, and the Pench River. The landscape has been shaped over a long period by geological folding and upheaval, creating a series of small hill ranges with gently sloping or relatively flat tops and steeper sides. The Pench River is the most important geographical feature of the park, flowing almost through its centre in a north-to-south direction and creating a natural division within the protected landscape. Areas close to the river are comparatively flatter and contain woodland, open meadows, and water-rich habitats, while the surrounding hills provide a more rugged and varied terrain. Seasonal streams and small drainage channels further shape the landscape, particularly during the monsoon season when the forest receives most of its annual rainfall.

The vegetation of Pench is mainly composed of Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest, with teak being one of the dominant tree species. Bamboo, saja, bija, dhaora, tendu, mahua, salai, amla, and several other native trees and shrubs add to the diversity of the forest. The combination of open woodland, dense patches of vegetation, grassy clearings, and sheltered valleys creates a mosaic of habitats that supports a wide variety of wildlife. The relatively open forest canopy allows sunlight to reach the ground, encouraging the growth of grasses, herbs, and shrubs that provide food for herbivores such as chital, sambar, gaur, nilgai, and wild boar. These herbivore-rich areas, in turn, provide important hunting grounds for carnivores including tigers, leopards, and wild dogs.

Water is another important element of the Pench landscape. Apart from the Pench River, the reserve contains streams, seasonal water channels, pools, and other water sources that become particularly important during the hot and dry summer months. The river and surrounding water bodies also influence the distribution of vegetation and wildlife throughout the park. During periods when water levels recede, remaining pools and moist areas can become important gathering places for animals. The landscape therefore changes noticeably with the seasons: the monsoon brings fresh greenery and flowing streams, winter creates a cooler and relatively pleasant environment, while the summer months make the forest drier and more open, concentrating wildlife around available water sources.

The varied terrain of Pench also creates a number of scenic viewpoints and natural habitats across the park. Rolling hills and forested ridges are interspersed with valleys, grass-covered clearings, and riverine areas, giving the landscape its distinctive character. The wider Pench Tiger Reserve extends across the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh and forms part of a larger forest landscape that connects with protected forests toward Maharashtra and other parts of central India. This wider connectivity is important for the movement and dispersal of wildlife and helps maintain the ecological value of the region.

Overall, the landscape of Pench National Park is a diverse mixture of Satpura hills, dry deciduous forests, open grasslands, valleys, riverine habitats, and seasonal water sources. This combination of different landforms and vegetation types makes Pench an important habitat for a wide range of animals, birds, reptiles, and plant species. The scenic setting of the Pench River flowing through the forest, together with the surrounding hills and open woodland, gives the park its distinctive natural beauty and contributes greatly to its importance as a wildlife and tiger conservation landscape in central India.

Pench National Park is known for its rich and diverse flora and fauna, supported by its dry deciduous forests, rolling hills, grasslands, valleys, streams, and the Pench River. The varied landscape creates several different habitats that provide food, shelter, breeding grounds, and water for a wide range of plants and animals. The vegetation of Pench is mainly made up of Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest, along with areas of moist deciduous and mixed deciduous vegetation. Teak (Tectona grandis) is one of the dominant tree species of the region and is accompanied by trees such as saja, bija, dhaora, tendu, salai, haldu, mahua, arjun, jamun, palash, and bamboo. Along the banks of rivers and streams, species such as arjun, jamun, gular, and saja are commonly found, while mahua, palash, tendu, and other trees occur in open forest areas. The reserve also contains a rich variety of grasses, shrubs, herbs, climbers, and other plants. Official sources record more than 1,200 species of plants in the wider Pench Tiger Reserve, including several rare, endangered, and ethnobotanically important species.

The vegetation of Pench changes with the seasons and plays an important role in supporting its wildlife. During the monsoon, rainfall brings fresh growth to the forest, fills streams and water bodies, and creates lush grasslands and dense green vegetation. In winter, the forest remains relatively green and provides abundant forage for herbivores, while during the dry summer months many deciduous trees shed their leaves, making the forest more open and allowing better visibility of wildlife. Grasses and other ground vegetation are particularly important for herbivores such as chital, sambar, gaur, nilgai, and wild boar. The combination of open grassy patches, mixed woodland, bamboo areas, and denser forest provides a variety of feeding and sheltering habitats for different species. This high diversity of habitats is one of the important reasons for the rich wildlife population found in Pench.

Pench is especially famous for its population of Bengal tigers, which are among the most important predators in the ecosystem. The tiger is followed by other major carnivores such as the leopard, dhole or Indian wild dog, and wolf. The reserve also supports several smaller and medium-sized carnivores, including the jungle cat, golden jackal, fox, striped hyena, palm civet, small Indian civet, mongooses, and other species. Sloth bears are another important mammal found in the forest, while porcupines and other smaller mammals contribute to the diversity of the ecosystem. These predators depend heavily on the healthy populations of herbivores and other prey species that live throughout the reserve.

Among the herbivores, chital or spotted deer, sambar, gaur, nilgai, wild boar, barking deer, chousingha or four-horned antelope, and chinkara are some of the prominent species found in Pench. Large groups of chital and sambar can often be seen in open forest areas and grasslands, while gaur are commonly associated with forested habitats and areas containing good forage. These herbivores form an important part of the food chain and provide prey for the reserve's major carnivores. The availability of nutritious grasses and other vegetation, particularly around open areas and water sources, contributes to the abundance of herbivores in the landscape. According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the heterogeneous habitats of Pench support substantial populations of chital, sambar, nilgai, gaur, and wild boar.

Pench is also an important destination for birdlife and supports a remarkable variety of resident and migratory birds. More than 325 species of birds have been recorded in the Madhya Pradesh portion of the Pench Tiger Reserve. Some notable species include the Malabar pied hornbill, Indian pitta, osprey, grey-headed fish eagle, white-eyed buzzard, peafowl, and several species of vultures. The Pench River, wetlands, forest edges, grasslands, and woodland habitats provide different feeding and nesting opportunities for birds. During the winter season, migratory birds add further diversity to the avian population. The presence of raptors, water birds, forest birds, and ground-dwelling species reflects the wide range of habitats available within the reserve.

The biodiversity of Pench extends beyond mammals and birds. The reserve also supports a variety of reptiles, amphibians, fish, butterflies, moths, and other insects, all of which play important roles in the ecosystem. Official conservation documents report around 58 mammal species, 325 bird species, 37 reptile species, and 50 fish species in the Pench Tiger Reserve, along with numerous species of butterflies, moths, dragonflies, damselflies, spiders, and other insects. This wide range of species demonstrates the ecological importance of Pench and shows how its forests, grasslands, rivers, and wetlands function together as a connected ecosystem.

Overall, the flora and fauna of Pench National Park represent the remarkable biodiversity of the Central Indian highlands. Its teak-dominated dry deciduous forests, bamboo groves, grasses, shrubs, riverine vegetation, and open meadows create suitable habitats for everything from small insects and birds to large herbivores and apex predators such as the tiger. The close relationship between vegetation, water, herbivores, and carnivores maintains the natural food chain and ecological balance of the park. The combination of rich plant diversity and a large variety of wildlife makes Pench an important conservation landscape and one of the well-known tiger habitats of central India.

Pench National Park experiences a tropical monsoonal climate, with three clearly defined seasons—summer, monsoon, and winter—along with a short post-monsoon period. Located in the Central Indian highlands and the southern reaches of the Satpura ranges, Pench experiences considerable variation in temperature and rainfall throughout the year. The climate has a strong influence on the vegetation, availability of water, movement of animals, and overall appearance of the forest. The main summer season generally extends from March to the middle of June, the monsoon begins around the second or third week of June and continues until September, while winter lasts roughly from November to February. The post-monsoon period during October is relatively short but brings cooler temperatures and gradually drying conditions to the forest.

The summer season is the hottest and driest period in Pench National Park and generally lasts from March to mid-June. Temperatures begin rising rapidly from March and reach their highest levels during April and May. Historical records for the reserve show that temperatures can rise to around 45–48°C during the hottest part of the season, while the average daily maximum during May has been recorded at about 39.7°C in long-term observations. The intense heat causes many deciduous trees to shed their leaves, giving parts of the forest a dry and open appearance. Grass and vegetation also become dry, and natural water sources gradually decrease. By the peak of summer, water becomes concentrated in the Pench River, pools, permanent water bodies, and artificial water holes maintained in parts of the reserve. These remaining water sources become particularly important for wildlife, and animals may frequently be seen near water during the hotter parts of the day.

The monsoon season brings a major transformation to the landscape of Pench. The south-west monsoon generally reaches the region in June, with regular rainfall becoming established by late June or early July. Most of the annual rainfall occurs during the monsoon months, and official sources report annual rainfall figures in the range of roughly 1,100–1,400 mm, depending on the location and period considered. Rainfall replenishes rivers, streams, ponds, and other water sources while helping grasses, shrubs, and trees develop fresh vegetation. The dry forest gradually becomes greener and denser, and seasonal streams begin flowing through valleys and forested areas. Around 90 percent of the average annual rainfall in the wider Pench landscape may occur between June and September. Heavy rainfall can also cause the Pench River and seasonal streams to flow rapidly, temporarily changing the appearance and accessibility of different parts of the reserve.

Following the monsoon, the post-monsoon season during September and October brings a gradual transition from wet conditions to the drier winter period. Rainfall decreases, temperatures become more comfortable, and the forest retains much of the greenery received during the monsoon. Water sources remain comparatively well supplied, while grasses and other vegetation provide abundant food for herbivores. This period is also important from an ecological perspective because the relationship between water, vegetation, herbivores, and predators changes as the landscape gradually becomes drier. By October, the weather generally becomes more suitable for tourism, and the forest begins to settle into its winter conditions.

The winter season, generally extending from November to February, is considerably cooler and more pleasant than summer. Temperatures can fall to only a few degrees Celsius during the coldest nights, particularly in January, while daytime temperatures are generally comfortable. Government information for Pench records average January temperatures of around 1°C to 15°C, although temperatures can vary depending on location and weather conditions. Historical records from the reserve have also recorded very low winter temperatures, with occasional frost and even sub-zero conditions reported during particularly cold periods. The cooler weather reduces heat stress on wildlife and creates comfortable conditions for animals to remain active for longer periods during the day. The relatively pleasant climate also makes the winter months popular for visitors exploring the park.

The changing climate throughout the year has a direct effect on the wildlife and ecology of Pench National Park. During summer, limited water availability can influence the movement of animals and concentrate wildlife around remaining water sources. During the monsoon, abundant rainfall restores water bodies and stimulates the growth of grasses and other vegetation, creating favourable conditions for herbivores. Winter brings cooler temperatures and relatively dry weather, allowing animals to remain active for longer periods. These seasonal changes also influence the appearance of the forest, with dry and leafless conditions during the hottest months gradually giving way to fresh greenery during the monsoon and clearer, cooler conditions during winter. Thus, the climate of Pench is an important natural factor shaping its forests, water resources, vegetation, and wildlife throughout the year.

Overall, the climate of Pench National Park is characterized by hot and dry summers, a rainfall-rich monsoon, a short post-monsoon transition, and cool winters. Temperatures can range from around 3°C in the coldest conditions to nearly 48°C during extreme summer heat, while annual rainfall is generally around 1,100–1,400 mm, with most of it received during the south-west monsoon. This strong seasonal variation gives Pench its distinctive character and plays a vital role in maintaining the balance between its forests, grasslands, rivers, and wildlife.

Pench National Park is well connected by road and rail, making it relatively accessible from major cities of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The main approaches to the park are from Nagpur, Seoni, Jabalpur, and Chhindwara, with different entry gates serving different parts of the reserve. The principal tourism gates on the Madhya Pradesh side include Turia, Karmajhiri, and Jamtara, while several buffer-zone gates provide additional access.

The nearest major airports for reaching Pench are Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, Jabalpur Airport, and Chhindwara Airport. Nagpur is particularly convenient for visitors travelling from other parts of India because it has regular air connections with several major Indian cities. From the airport, visitors can continue their journey to Pench by taxi or private vehicle. The Turia Gate is approximately 85–92 km from Nagpur depending on the route, while the wider reserve can also be approached through other gates. Jabalpur provides another useful air connection, with the route to the Pench area passing through Seoni; the distance from Jabalpur to the Karmajhiri area is about 195 km by road.

Pench does not have a major railway station immediately at the park gates, so visitors generally travel by train to Nagpur or Jabalpur and then continue by road. Both cities are important railway junctions with connections to many parts of India. From Nagpur, travellers can take a taxi or other road transport towards Khawasa and the Turia side of the reserve. The official Pench Tiger Reserve information lists Jabalpur and Nagpur among the nearest railway options for reaching the reserve. Visitors may also travel by rail to Seoni, the administrative headquarters of Pench Tiger Reserve, and continue by road towards the appropriate park entrance.

Road travel is one of the most convenient ways to reach Pench, particularly for visitors travelling from nearby cities. Nagpur, Seoni, Jabalpur, Chhindwara, and Balaghat are connected with the reserve by road routes. The Turia Gate can be approached from Nagpur through Khawasa and is around 85 km from Nagpur, while Karmajhiri is approximately 50 km from Seoni via Suktara and other local roads. From Jabalpur, the road distance to Karmajhiri is around 195 km, while Chhindwara provides access to the Jamtara side, with routes of roughly 59–80 km depending on the approach. Private cars, taxis, and vehicles arranged through hotels or safari operators are commonly used for the final journey to the park.

The most suitable entrance depends on where visitors are staying and which safari zone they have booked. Turia Gate is one of the principal and most frequently used entry points and is conveniently approached from Nagpur through Khawasa. Karmajhiri Gate provides access from the Seoni side, while Jamtara Gate is approached from the Chhindwara direction. Since the gates are located in different parts of the reserve, travellers should check their safari permit and accommodation location before planning their transport. Safari entry is regulated through designated gates and vehicle capacities, so visitors should arrange their safari permits in advance rather than assuming that entry will be available on arrival.

Overall, Pench National Park can be reached conveniently through Nagpur, Jabalpur, Seoni, and Chhindwara, with road travel forming the final and most important part of the journey. Nagpur is a practical gateway for travellers arriving by air or train from many parts of India, while Jabalpur and Seoni provide alternative approaches to the reserve. Because Pench is spread across a large forest landscape with several entry gates, choosing the correct gate according to the safari permit and accommodation can make the journey considerably easier.

Entry to Pench National Park for a wildlife safari requires a valid safari permit, with fees varying according to the type of permit, safari zone, and booking category. Visitors can generally choose between full-vehicle and single-seat bookings, while additional charges for the safari vehicle and guide may be payable separately at the park. Advance permits can be booked online through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department's official booking system, while limited last-minute or current permits may also be available subject to availability. It is advisable to book permits in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season, as safari seats and vehicles are limited. Visitors should also carry the identification document used during booking and follow the entry rules of the respective safari gate.

Getting around Pench National Park is primarily done through registered Gypsy safaris, as private vehicles are generally not permitted to freely explore the protected forest areas. The park is spread across Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra and is divided into several core and buffer safari zones, each with its own designated entrance gate and routes. Visitors should choose their safari gate according to their accommodation and permit, as travelling between distant gates can take considerable time. The main core zones on the Madhya Pradesh side include Turia, Karmajhiri and Jamtara, while buffer areas include Khawasa, Khumbhpani, Masurnala, Rukhad and Teliya. On the Maharashtra side, safari areas include Kolitmara, Khubala, Sillari, Chorbahuli and Khursapar, along with the Surewani buffer zone. Zone access, opening days, vehicle limits and routes can change according to Forest Department regulations, weather and seasonal conditions, so visitors should check the latest information before travelling.

The most common way to explore the park is by an open Gypsy safari, normally accompanied by a trained guide. Morning and afternoon safari drives follow fixed entry and exit timings, which vary according to the season. Visitors should arrive at their designated gate before the reporting time and carry the original identification document used for the booking. A safari permit is required for entry, and advance safari booking is recommended during weekends, holidays and the peak wildlife season because the number of vehicles allowed in each zone is limited. Visitors can request a preferred zone, although the final allocation remains subject to availability and Forest Department rules.

Turia Gate is one of the most popular entry points on the Madhya Pradesh side and is particularly convenient for visitors staying at the many hotels and resorts around the Turia area. Its core zone is known for its varied forest scenery, waterholes and frequent wildlife activity. Karmajhiri Gate provides access to another important core area and is generally quieter, with forests, streams and opportunities to see birds, deer, gaur and other wildlife. Jamtara Gate gives access to the Jamtara core zone and is another option for visitors interested in exploring a different part of the Pench landscape. The buffer zones provide additional opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature experiences, while some areas may have different safari schedules or activity options.

The Maharashtra side of Pench can also be explored through its designated safari gates. Khursapar and Sillari are among the better-known entrances, while Kolitmara, Khubala and Chorbahuli provide access to other parts of the forest. These areas have their own routes and operating rules, so visitors staying on the Maharashtra side should select a gate that is close to their accommodation. The Maharashtra zones can offer opportunities for tiger, leopard, gaur, wild dog, sloth bear and bird sightings, while the surrounding reservoir and forest landscape adds to the scenic experience. Visitors should check the operating days and current permit conditions for individual gates before planning a safari.

Apart from jeep safaris, visitors can explore the wider Pench region through activities permitted by local authorities and tourism operators. Nature walks, birdwatching, photography and guided experiences in buffer areas are popular alternatives for travellers who want to experience the forest at a slower pace. The Runi Jhuni Nature Walking Trail near Karmajhiri is one example of a guided walking experience, while birdwatching is particularly rewarding around forest edges, water bodies and suitable bird habitats. Some areas around Rukhad also offer guided cycling experiences, providing a different way of experiencing the surrounding landscape without relying entirely on a safari vehicle. Availability of these activities can vary according to season and local regulations.

There are also several attractions and experiences near Pench National Park that can be combined with a safari itinerary. Visitors can explore local villages and weekly haats to experience the culture and handicrafts of the surrounding communities, visit the Potter's Village near Turia, or enjoy nature-oriented activities around the Rukhad area. Boating opportunities around the Pench/Totladoh reservoir may also be available depending on local rules, weather and water conditions. For visitors interested in astronomy and quiet evenings, some jungle camps and resorts offer stargazing experiences away from the light pollution of major cities. These activities make it possible to spend two or three days in the Pench region without limiting the trip entirely to game drives.

For visitors staying outside the immediate park area, taxis, private cars and hotel-arranged transfers are the most practical ways to travel between accommodation, safari gates and nearby attractions. Because Pench is spread across a large forest landscape, it is important to check the distance between the hotel and the selected gate before booking accommodation. Staying close to the chosen gate can make early-morning safari departures much easier and reduce unnecessary travel. Once inside the protected forest, visitors should remain in the designated safari vehicle, follow the guide's instructions, avoid disturbing wildlife and observe all park rules. The combination of regulated Gypsy safaris, designated gates, buffer-zone activities and nearby cultural and nature attractions makes it possible to explore Pench in several different ways while keeping movement within the protected landscape controlled and wildlife-friendly.

Pench National Park is known for its scenic dry deciduous forests, the Pench River, rocky hills, open grasslands and rich wildlife. Visitors can explore different landscapes through safari zones such as Turia, Karmajhiri and Jamtara on the Madhya Pradesh side, as well as Sillari, Khursapar, Kolitmara and other zones in Maharashtra. The forest provides opportunities to see tigers, leopards, gaur, deer, wild dogs, sloth bears and a wide variety of birds, while places such as Sitaghat, Alikatta, Kala Pahad and Baginnalla are notable spots within the safari landscape. The area around Turia is also associated with the Jungle Book and the wider Seoni forest landscape that inspired elements of Rudyard Kipling's work. Visitors can also see the Pench Reservoir and surrounding forest scenery, explore interpretation and nature areas, and enjoy birdwatching and photography. Different zones offer different landscapes and wildlife habitats, so visiting more than one area can provide a broader experience of Pench.

Outside the park, you will see people selling wildlife postcards. You can also spot some people selling musk. They start with a heavy rate, but eventually come down. Authenticity may be dubious, and to convince you, they'll perform some tricks. Don't fall for that.

Outside the national park, you will find a lot of dhabas where you can sit for a snack or for lunch. The food you will eat at these locations will be delicious and you will never believe the low rates.

Always try going for the simplest food as possible. They do not have a long menu, but whatever they make is worth eating.

Carry sufficient drinking water during your visit to Pench, especially during the hot summer months when temperatures can become very high. Bottled or properly filtered water is recommended, and visitors staying at hotels or resorts can usually refill bottles before heading to the safari gate. Avoid carrying alcohol into the protected area, as drinking alcohol and entering the park while intoxicated are prohibited. During a safari, keep water securely stored and take all empty bottles and waste back with you rather than leaving anything in the forest.

Pench National Park is a protected wildlife area, so visitors should follow the instructions of their authorised guide and driver throughout the safari. Carry a valid permit and the original identification document used for booking, remain inside the safari vehicle unless the guide specifically permits otherwise, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Do not feed, chase, tease or attempt to approach animals, and avoid loud conversations, music, smoking, alcohol and littering inside the protected area. Safari vehicles are required to follow speed restrictions, and visitors should never ask the driver to leave the designated route. Carry sun protection, comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear and sufficient drinking water, particularly in summer.