Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra)

Introduction

Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) is located in Nagpur district along the Maharashtra–Madhya Pradesh border. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1999, it forms the southern half of the larger Pench landscape, sharing an internationally important tiger habitat with Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. Named after the Pench River, the reserve is known for healthy tiger populations, rich biodiversity and its role in maintaining ecological connectivity across central India.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Maharashtra
District	Nagpur
Tiger Reserve Notification	1999
Total Area	741.22 sq km
Core Area	257.26 sq km
Buffer Area	483.96 sq km
Landscape	Southern Satpura Hills
Forest Types	Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests
Major River	Pench River
Best Time to Visit	October to June

Location

The reserve lies in northeastern Maharashtra adjoining Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, creating a contiguous protected forest landscape.

History

Originally protected as Pench Wildlife Sanctuary, the area was notified as Maharashtra’s Tiger Reserve in 1999 under Project Tiger, strengthening conservation of the Pench landscape.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve covers 741.22 sq km, comprising a core area of 257.26 sq km and a buffer area of 483.96 sq km. Rolling hills, teak forests, bamboo brakes, grasslands, river valleys and seasonal streams provide excellent habitat for tigers and prey species.

Flora

The forests are dominated by teak, saja, dhaora, tendu, bamboo, mahua, arjun, jamun, bija and numerous grasses, shrubs and medicinal plants.

Fauna

Important mammals include Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Four-horned Antelope and Indian Giant Squirrel. More than 280 bird species have been recorded, along with Indian Rock Python, Monitor Lizard, Mugger Crocodile, Cobra and Krait.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Pench River and Pench Reservoir form the ecological lifeline of the reserve, supplemented by perennial streams and waterholes.

Other Attractions

Jeep safaris, birdwatching, Pench Reservoir, interpretation centres and scenic forest landscapes attract visitors throughout the tourism season.

Weather & Climate

Summers are hot and dry, the southwest monsoon brings moderate rainfall and winters are cool and pleasant.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. Nearest railway station: Nagpur. The reserve is easily accessible by road from Nagpur.

Best Time to Visit

October to June is the principal tourism season, with March to May generally offering the best wildlife sightings.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Maharashtra Tourism accommodation are available near authorised tourism gates, subject to advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

Pench (Maharashtra) is an important source habitat within the Central Indian tiger landscape. Habitat improvement, anti-poaching patrols, scientific monitoring and corridor conservation are key management priorities.

Visitor Tips

Book safari permits in advance, wear earth-toned clothing, maintain silence, avoid littering and follow Forest Department regulations.

Did You Know?

• The Pench River gives the reserve its name.
• Together with Pench Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh), it forms one of India’s finest tiger landscapes.
• The forests inspired the setting for Rudyard Kipling’s ‘The Jungle Book’.

Last Updated

July 2026