Nestled on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park is a proud treasure of wilderness, famed for its rich biodiversity and majestic tigers. Spread across the districts of Seoni and Chhindwara, Pench has gained immense popularity among wildlife photographers, nature lovers, and safari enthusiasts. Its enchanting sal forests, open meadows, and the meandering Pench River bring Kipling’s The Jungle Book vividly to life, making it an unforgettable destination for jungle lovers.
For residents of Indore and nearby regions, Pench National Park offers an ideal escape into nature. The relatively short distance from Indore, excellent road connectivity, and the promise of spotting Bengal tigers, leopards, and a variety of birdlife make it one of the most accessible and rewarding national parks in central India. Continue reading the blog to discover how to reach Pench from Indore, the total distance, best route options, and a suggested 2 nights/3 days itinerary for a memorable trip. We'll also touch upon Pench National Park booking and entry gate options to help you plan better.
Distance between Indore and Pench National Park
• Primary Road Route (Indore to Pench via NH47 and NH753)
The driving distance from Indore to Pench National Park is approximately 487 km, and the route passes through NH47 and NH753. The most commonly used gate for travelers from Indore is the Turia Gate, which is one of the most accessible and popular entry points into the park. Other gates like Karmajhiri and Jamtara can also be reached from Indore, but might add to the distance or travel time slightly. The road journey typically takes 9 to 10 hours, making it feasible for a weekend trip if planned with early departures. With a good mix of highways and forest roads, the drive itself is a scenic experience, especially as you approach the buffer zones of Pench.
Seoni has the nearest railhead to reach Pench National Park. However, there is no efficient train connectivity from Indore to reach Pench, therefore, it is better to skip the train option. There is only 1 train available from Indore to Seoni and 1 to Nagpur.
• Alternate Option: Flight to Nagpur + Road to Pench
For those looking to save time, an alternative route is to fly from Indore to Nagpur Airport, which is the nearest major airport to Pench. The flight duration is about 1 hour, followed by a 103 km drive from Nagpur to the Turia Gate of Pench. This drive takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and time of day. This option is ideal for tourists who want to avoid long hours on the road and prefer a more comfortable and faster journey.
Pench National Park Itinerary from Indore (2 Nights & 3 Days)
Day 1: Indore to Pench
Start your journey from Indore early in the morning, preferably around 6:00 am, to make the most of the day. Arrive at Pench National Park by early afternoon and check into your pre-booked resort or lodge. After settling in, spend some time unwinding amidst the serene forest surroundings. If time permits and you’ve already made your Pench National Park booking, you can opt for an evening jeep safari in one of the buffer zones to get a feel of the forest and spot some wildlife.
Day 2: Safari Experience at Pench
Wake up before sunrise for a morning safari in the core zone of Pench National Park. Return to your resort for breakfast and a relaxing mid-morning break. Post-lunch, head out again for the afternoon safari - ideally in a different zone if your prior booking allows. In the evening, enjoy a bonfire session or a guided nature walk (subject to availability), soaking in the jungle's raw beauty under starlit skies.
Day 3: Return Journey to Indore
After an early breakfast, check out and begin your return drive to Indore. If you’re not in a hurry, you can make brief stops at scenic spots or small towns along the route. Expect to reach Indore by evening, marking the end of a thrilling and rejuvenating wildlife getaway.
