Pench National Park Turia Gate — Local services in Madhya Pradesh

The safari tickets are to be booked very well ahead before you plan the trip to avoid disappointment. We booked our tickets booked through the website maintained by Madhya Pradesh Forest Department very easily & there was absolutely no trouble. Pench Tiger Reserve shares its region with two states – MP & Maharashtra. Please be mindful to follow the guidelines laid by the forest officials and do not disturb the animals. Apart from tigers, we got to see so many other species in 2 days which included animals like Dhole, Golden Jackal, Wild Boar, Spotted Deer, Monkey, Nilgai, Sambar Deer & birds like Serpent Eagle, Hornbill, Indian Roller, Little Cormorant. The guides are well trained and jeep numbers are limited. Also try to collect information about Ghost Tree as well which are plenty in this forest. The terrain remains varied throughout. You see a part which is heavily forested by teak trees, with patches of mixed forest comprising bamboo, crocodile bark, etc. Then the terrain is hilly and rocky, interspersed with many river gullies which then makes its way to few open plains with occasional water bodies making it a challenge to spot the beast. The varied natures of the forest offer the flora and the fauna with ample food and water reserves, throughout a year. There are mess rooms/canteen & toilets in the reserve which are cleaned on an hourly basis. But the waste were not segregated at the source. So I'm not sure about waste management services. Food or rather snacks, noodles, tea/coffee etc. are provided with nominal charges if you have not brought food along with you. Most of the resorts pack a meal for safari. There were souvenir shops, which sold things wrapped in plastic. This open area is a dry ground without any barricades/fencing where all the jeeps stop for a break while safari. The premises are well maintained by the forest department though there are some areas like mentioned earlier that need improvisation. Some safari jeep drivers drive madly when they see a Tiger. During our last safari, when we spotted a tiger, within minutes many jeeps gathered around. The whole situation got chaotic with these rushing jeeps & communicating loudly with other drivers. The forest officials should take responsibility and ensure that Gypsy drivers do not race through the Jungle. Most of the guides accompanying on safaris are people who lived in the forest once or those who chose this profession out of love for nature & life within it. They very well know about these forests & its life and are very enthusiastic to show & share stories of experience. They are not just watching; they are making use of their sense of organs which is really commendable. Apart from morning & evening safari, there are night safari which are conducted in the...

Pench Tiger Reserve consistently receives positive reviews for its spectacular wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and excellent safari experiences. Visitors highlight the thrill of spotting tigers, leopards, and a wide range of animals such as deer, sambhar, gaur, jackals, and an impressive diversity of birds. Many guests have been lucky to witness tigers basking in the sun or prowling through the jungle, making their safaris truly unforgettable. The reserve stands out for its rich biodiversity, with over 300 bird species and more than 50 species of animals, including the rare black leopard and dhole (wild dogs). The forest itself is described as both lush and accessible, offering an immersive experience in nature while being less crowded than other famous reserves. The Tiger Reserve's buffer zone remains open during monsoon, giving visitors a unique chance to experience the verdant landscape year-round .

Resort and lodge stays in and around Pench are highly rated for their comfort, cleanliness, and attentive staff. Properties like Pench Tree Lodge and Pench Jungle Camp are praised for their luxurious yet nature-integrated accommodations and prompt service. Many travelers commend the eco-friendly lodges for their treehouse designs and beautiful settings amidst the forest, which enhance the overall experience

The management of the park is frequently noted for organizing seamless safaris, both daytime and, uniquely, night safaris, adding extra excitement for wildlife enthusiasts. Families, solo travelers, and groups alike enjoy the sense of adventure and the opportunities to not just see wildlife, but to connect with nature in a serene environment. Overall, Pench Tiger Reserve is recommended as an outstanding destination for those seeking memorable safaris, comfortable stays, and close encounters with India’s...

Pench National Park, especially through the Turia Gate, offers a breathtaking wildlife experience, but the management and staff support could be significantly improved.

Despite having an online booking, I faced difficulty finding a sharing gypsy because the staff at the gate were not helpful at all. Instead of assisting with shared arrangements, they seemed more inclined to push visitors into booking a full vehicle, which is unnecessarily expensive for solo travelers or small groups. There was no proper coordination or willingness to help, which was disappointing.

The guides also need better training. While some were knowledgeable, others seemed disinterested or lacked the depth of information one would expect in such a renowned national park. A well-informed guide can make a huge difference in the safari experience, and unfortunately, that aspect felt lacking.

However, once inside the park, the safari itself was an unforgettable experience. The landscape of Pench is absolutely mesmerizing, with its dense forests, open grasslands, and serene water bodies. The thrill of tracking a tiger, the sight of herds of spotted deer, and the occasional alarm calls echoing through the forest create an unmatched adrenaline rush. The diverse birdlife and other wildlife sightings added to the charm.

Overall, Pench is a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers, but the administration needs to work on improving visitor experience, particularly in terms of better coordination for shared safaris and enhanced guide training. If you’re planning to visit, be prepared for some logistical hiccups but also for an unforgettable adventure...