Pench itinerary

Plan 01

1 day in Pench

1. 01

   Day 1: One safari from Nagpur

   This is tight. Leave Nagpur very early by car to reach your gate in time for a morning safari, take the drive, then return after lunch. Only attempt this if you cannot stay overnight, and book a permit well ahead. A two-night stay is far more comfortable and gives better odds.

Plan 02

2 days in Pench

1. 01

   Day 1: Arrive and settle

   Drive from Nagpur in the morning, check in, have lunch and rest. Join an afternoon safari from Turia or Karmajhiri, depending on your lodge.

2. 02

   Day 2: Morning safari and departure

   Take the early morning safari, return for breakfast and rest, then drive back to Nagpur in the afternoon. If you can add a second night, an extra drive improves your chances.

Plan 03

3 days in Pench

1. 01

   Day 1: Arrive and settle

   Transfer from Nagpur, rest at the lodge and take an afternoon safari at the gate you booked.

2. 02

   Day 2: Two safaris and a slow midday

   Take a morning safari, return for breakfast, then rest. Join a second safari in the afternoon. Use the middle hours for a short lodge walk or for birding in the grounds if your lodge has a nature guide.

3. 03

   Day 3: Last drive and return

   Do a final morning safari at a different gate if permits allow, or a buffer-zone drive at Khawasa or Rukhad, and then travel back to Nagpur. If you plan to continue to Kanha, check the road time with your driver beforehand.

Pacing

Pacing a Pench trip for parents and children

• Book a full vehicle so you can sit comfortably and ask the guide to stop or turn back.
• Carry a cushion or a folded shawl for bumpy tracks and wear layers; winter dawns are cold and summer afternoons are hot.
• Choose a lodge close to your gate to cut down the early-morning transfer.
• Plan one safari a day rather than two if you tire easily; rest between drives.
• Pack any regular medication and keep it with you; facilities near the gates are limited.
• Booking: Use the official MP forest portal for permits, usually opening 120 days ahead, daily around 11:00. Beware of unofficial sites.

Pench with elderly parents: the full guide →