292 sq km
Core Zone
Madhya Pradesh core
Madhya Pradesh & Maharashtra • TIGER RESERVE
Explore Pench
National Park
Walk in the footsteps of Mowgli — luxury stays and tiger safaris across the legendary forests of central India.
758 sq km
Total Area
50+
Tigers
1992
Established
Core & Buffer
Zones
Oct – Jun
Best Time
Destination
Destination Facts
PENCH AT A GLANCE
466 sq km
Buffer Zone
Buffer & fringe forests
14 Active Gates
Safari Gates
Turia (MP) · Karmajhiri (MP) · Jamtara (MP) · Sillari (MH) · Khursapar (MH) · Chorbahuli (MH) · Khubala (MH) · Rukhad (MP) · Khawasa (MP) · Masurnala (MP) · Teliya (MP) · Khumbhpani (MP) · Surwani (MH) · Banera (MH)
Madhya Pradesh & Maharashtra
Park State
Madhya Pradesh & Maharashtra
July – Sept
Park Closure Period
Annual monsoon closure
Bengal Tiger
Key Species
Leopard · Wild Dog (Dhole) · Indian Gaur
Core Zone = primary tiger habitat, stricter limits, higher sighting probability, higher pricing. Buffer Zone = surrounding forest, more species variety, more accessible pricing.
Watch & Feel
Wildlife Reels & Safari Moments
Curated Bundles
Curated Wildlife Packages
Stays Near Pench
Featured Resorts Near Pench
Entry Points
Safari Gates Information
| Gate Name | Zone | Distance | Morning Safari | Evening Safari | Jeep |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turia Gate (MP) | Core Zone | ~90 km | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Karmajhiri Gate (MP) | Core Zone | ~135 km | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Jamtara Gate (MP) | Core Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Sillari Gate (MH) | Core Zone | ~70 km | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM | 6 |
| Khursapar Gate (MH) | Core Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM | 6 |
| Chorbahuli Gate (MH) | Core Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM | 6 |
| Khubala Gate (MH) | Core Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM | 6 |
| Rukhad Gate (MP) | Buffer Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Khawasa Gate (MP) | Buffer Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Masurnala Gate (MP) | Buffer Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Teliya Gate (MP) | Buffer Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Khumbhpani Gate (MP) | Buffer Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM (closed Wed) | 6 |
| Surwani Gate (MH) | Buffer Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM | 6 |
| Banera Gate (MH) | Buffer Zone | — | 06 AM - 10 AM | 02 PM - 06 PM | 6 |
Timings may change as per forest department notifications.
Before You Go
Safari Guidelines
Dress Code
Neutral earthy colours only. No bright clothing or flashy accessories.
Photography
No flash photography. Video permitted without flash in most zones.
What to Carry
Valid ID proof, water, binoculars, hat, and sunscreen for every safari.
Age Rules
Children above 5 years allowed. No infants in Core zone safaris.
Silence
Maintain silence throughout. No loud music or phone conversations.
Wildlife Safety
Do not feed, tease, or approach animals under any condition.
Know Before You Go
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time to visit Pench?+
October to June is ideal for wildlife sightings. Peak season is March to May when dry heat concentrates animals at waterholes. November to February offers cooler, comfortable travel. Avoid July – September — the park is closed during monsoon.
2. How many safaris can I take in a day?+
You can book one morning and one evening safari per day in most zones, subject to forest department quotas. Morning safaris typically run 6 AM–11 AM and evening 3 PM–6 PM (timings vary seasonally).
3. What is the difference between Core and Buffer zones?+
Core Zone is primary tiger habitat with stricter entry limits and higher sighting probability. Buffer Zone surrounds the core with more species variety and often more accessible pricing — both offer excellent wildlife experiences.
4. Are children allowed on safaris?+
Children above 5 years are generally allowed on buffer zone safaris. Core zone safaris often restrict infants and very young children — check gate-specific rules before booking.
5. Do I need to book safaris in advance?+
Yes. Safari permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially in peak season. We recommend booking resorts and safaris at least 4–6 weeks ahead for weekends and holidays.
6. What are the camera charges?+
Still photography is usually included in the safari permit. Professional video cameras and lenses above certain focal lengths may incur additional forest department fees — confirm at booking.
7. What should I wear for a jungle safari?+
Wear neutral earthy colours — khaki, olive, brown. Avoid bright reds and whites. Carry a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and valid government photo ID.
8. Is it safe for senior citizens?+
Yes, jeep safaris are suitable for seniors in good health. Routes can be bumpy — consult your doctor if you have back or mobility concerns. Many resorts offer ground-floor rooms and easy access.
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