Activities at Pench National Park

Author: Uday Patel

The drive to Kipling Country Pench from Nagpur Airport in Maharashtra and from Jabalpur Airport in Madhya Pradesh is picturesque and happening both ways. The end point is Khawasa at the border from where you turn in towards the Turia Gate.

Nagpur drive is shorter being just 90 minutes drive while Jabalpur takes nearly five hours. The latter intersects diverse terrain ranging from small townships, quaint hamlets, and green fields, dense forests. There are some happening stops where you can have a snack of your choice or a full meal at a picturesque dhaba. The dainty cot and the wooden table are ubiquitous features of all Indian dhabas. The countryside location and the highway offers a holiday feel as you gaze around waiting for the food to be served. The music blaring and the chaotic mix of rustic crowd intermingling with tourists and drivers are never a turn off. The smell of local food and the brown chapattis is too powerful to distract the tourists on a safari holiday.

Situated in most verdant confines of Central India Pench Tiger Reserve is ever crowded. As the drive nears Seoni, the forests become much dense and with luck you can come across a tiger or a bison on the road. Post the township the panoramic spread is Captivating right till you reach Khawasa Township.

Whence you move in for Turia Gate where a large number of resorts are situated you are most likely to see wolves, the friends of Mowgli. An occasional leopard crossing the road is no surprise but the journey is exciting all the way through. Nilgai, four horned antelope, sambar deer, chital, jackal langur monkeys and peacocks catch your attention not only during the safari in the core but in the outer ring or buffer as well. This ten kilometer stretch can yield good sightings if you are alert.

Upon reaching the resorts you head straight towards the one which you have booked. Not only the thrill of tiger safari the recreation provided by the resorts is full of fun. Some of the best accommodations are situated here.

Besides thrilling tiger safari at Pench, you can do much more at the resort. Spend time at the recreation center play pool or billiards. The best evening spend is at the camp fire. Refreshing beverages and tiger tales under the warm glow of the fire is a time spent well. Bush dinners under starlit skies offer a romantic experience. Or simply spend time at the library and read books on wildlife and nature.

Be a part of the nature walk and birding trips in the outer area. The forest walks are invigorating and the naturalist accompanying you will enhance your knowledge of all things wild. The village tours are also revealing of local customs and traditions. Birding with experienced naturalist is organized for the enthusiasts in the core and buffer as well.

Take a sip in pool or simply sun in the noon. A rest on a hammock is another option. Revel during your stay in luxury and always be on time for the safaris. Keep a good pair of binoculars and a camera. While on excursions in the forest you can capture stunning images of tigers, leopards and the sloth bear in addition to the wild dogs and the bison.

The stay at luxury resorts at Pench National Park is a unique experience. Make most of the comforts and the ambiance while on a holiday. For this choose accommodation wisely for a grand holiday. There are many luxury properties near Turia Gate and neighborhood. Choose the best, and yes do not forget to book safari permits as soon as you finalize the trip to India.