Pench National Park.

Pench Tiger Reserve, a lush teak forest spanning Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, takes its name from the Pench River that bisects it. While the reserve gained significant attention with the rise of wildlife tourism in 2002, its fame predates this era. Rudyard Kipling found inspiration in its wilderness, immortalizing it as the setting for his beloved “Jungle Book.” Even today, the reserve resonates with the echoes of Sher Khan and Baloo, bringing this classic tale to life.

The Reserve encompasses the Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park, the Pench Mowgli Sanctuary, and a surrounding buffer zone. Spread across 1,179 square kilometers, this landscape of Southern Indian tropical moist and dry deciduous forest is dominated by teak trees. The terrain is interwoven with numerous streams and seasonal ‘nallahs’ that support the reserve’s rich biodiversity. While the Pench River gradually recedes by late April, perennial water pools, known as dohs, offer crucial hydration for wildlife. Centrally located, the Pench Reservoir serves as the main water source during the harsh summer months.

The Pench River attracts a high concentration of prey, making it a favored hunting ground for tigers. Leopards, while typically found in the park’s periphery, are also occasionally sighted deeper within the forest. This diverse ecosystem, rich in prey and predators, offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a glimpse of India’s iconic wildlife.