Madhya Pradesh, a vast land brimming with diverse landscapes and rich wildlife, offers nature enthusiasts a myriad of opportunities to witness its untamed beauty. Among the several gems of the central state of India Pench National Park and Kanha National Park are the two destinations that outshine with their lush forests, thriving wildlife, and captivating landscapes. A journey to Pench and Kanha is something beyond spotting just wildlife; it is a chance to reconnect with nature in its purest form. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking solace in nature's embrace, these national parks promise an unforgettable adventure.
Pench National Park
Located in Seoni and Chhindwara districts and sharing the borders of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park is renowned for its significant population of Bengal tigers. The park's landscape is dominated by dense teak forests, open grasslands, and meandering rivers, creating an ideal habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. As you venture into Pench, the rhythmic chirping of birds and the occasional rustle of leaves keep you company, creating an atmosphere of tranquil anticipation.
Pench is home to not just tigers, but also leopards, wild dogs, Indian bison (gaur), sambar deer, and over 250 species of birds. Jeep safaris are the best way to explore the park, allowing you to traverse through its various zones and catch glimpses of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Pench online safari booking is the easiest way to secure your safari beforehand to avoid any last-minute disappointments. Don't miss the picturesque Pench River, which flows through the park, offering serene views and serving as a watering hole for wildlife. The Sunset Point provides a breathtaking vista as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Kanha National Park
Moving further into the heart of Central India, in the districts of Mandala and Balaghat, Kanha National Park captivates with its sprawling meadows, dense forests of sal and bamboo, and the Banjar River meandering through its terrain. Kanha is not only one of India's popular national parks but also served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book."
The star attraction of Kanha is its thriving population of tigers. Apart from tigers, the park is home to sloth bears, barasingha, Indian wild dogs, and an impressive birdlife. Jeep safaris serve the purpose of exploring Kanha, offering a thrilling perspective and the opportunity to spot elusive wildlife. Visit Bamni Dadar, also known as Sunset Point, for panoramic views of the park and its inhabitants. The Kanha Museum provides insights into the park's ecosystem, flora, and fauna, enriching your understanding of this natural paradise.
Planning Your Trip
A thorough planning for the wildlife trip to Pench and Kanha National Park guarantees an unparalleled experience. The distance between the two iconic national park is approximately 211 km. In order to reach Pench National Park, either book a flight to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur (105 km from Pench) or take a train to Seoni Railway Station (85 km from Pench).
Reaching Pench National Park and settling in a pre-booked accommodation, head out for an evening jeep safari from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Staying governing near the premises of Pench, once again head out for a morning safari from 6:30 am to 10:00 am.
Next, proceed towards Kanha National Park after breakfast and check into a resort. Hop on for an evening jeep safari in Kanha from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, followed by a morning jeep safari from 6:00 am to 11:30 am. The time of the safaris varies according to season, which you will be informed by the national park authorities. Book your safaris and lodging well in advance after ascertaining the best time to visit the national parks.
Checking out from Kanha National Park, drive to Jabalpur Airport (130 km) or Jabalpur Railway Station (124 km) for your scheduled departure, thus marking an end to the soul-satisfying wildlife trip.
