Where Wilderness Awaits at Every Turn
ORIENT WOODS PENCH SAFARI GUIDE
Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Wild Beauty of Pench
Into the Wilds of Pench
Discover the wild landscapes of Pench, where teak forests, open meadows and seasonal water bodies create a rich habitat for tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, gaur, deer and diverse birdlife.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Cooler temperatures and pleasant weather make these months comfortable for safaris, with the forest retaining its post-monsoon character
As the forest gets warmer and drier, wildlife activity around water sources can make summer a rewarding time for sightings.
The landscape takes on a distinctly dry-season character, while longer daylight hours offer extended safari windows.
The core area is closed for regular tourism during the monsoon. However, buffer-area safaris are available from Surewani Gate in Nagalwadi and Sillari Gate in Paoni U.C., subject to Forest Department regulations.
Good to know: Safari availability, entry gates and timings are subject to Forest Department regulations and may change seasonally.
Where To book
Your safari
Safari details and availability are subject to forest department regulations. Guests are advised to verify the latest information on the official website. Sterling Holidays provides assistance and information support only.
Where to Book Your Pench Safari
Safari permits for the Maharashtra side of Pench Tiger Reserve are booked through the Maharashtra Forest Department's official safari booking system. Check the available dates, safari gates and slots while making your booking. Availability is subject to the Forest Department's current inventory and regulations.
Book 45-120 days in advance
Visit MP onlineSterling Safari Assistance
Staying at Sterling Orient Woods? Our Safari Desk can assist you with safari planning, booking guidance, permits, gate information and transfers, helping you make the most of your time in Pench.
+91 79697 92004
Call safari DeskGate counter booking
Limited slots available at park entry gates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Khursapar Gate
Sillari Gate
Pro Tip: For peak season visit (November-February) we recommend booking at least 30 days in advance to secure you preffered zone and timing
Distance & Travel Time
Sterling Orient Woods Pench is strategically located for easy access to Ranthambore.
Sterling Orient Woods Pench
Your starting point
Khursapar Gate
Main Entry Point
Curated Safari Transport
Resort Vehicle
Charges applicable as per route & vehicle type
Private Taxi
Rates vary based on distance, season & availability
Safari Gypsy
Safari charges applicable as per prevailing rates
SAFARI TIMINGS
Safari timings are provided for reference and may be revised by forest authorities. Please verify the latest schedule before your visit.
Jeep Safari Experience
Morning Safari
Safari timings, routes, and zone allocations are subject to change as per forest department regulations and operational requirements. Guests are advised to refer to the official government/forest department portal for the latest information before planning their visit.
SAFARI TIMINGS
Safari timings are provided for reference and may be revised by forest authorities. Please verify the latest schedule before your visit.
Jeep Safari Experience
Evening Safari
Safari timings, routes, and zone allocations are subject to change as per forest department regulations and operational requirements. Guests are advised to refer to the official government/forest department portal for the latest information before planning their visit.
What to wear
Dess smart for the wild - Comfort meets camouflage
Cotton Shirt
T-Shirts
Wild Brimmed Hat or Cap
UV Protection Sun Glass
Comfortable closed toe shoes
LightScarf for Dustprotection
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Comfortable full-length trousers
- A hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable closed shoes
- A light scarf for sun and dust protection
- Heavy, thick or non-breathable fabrics
- Tight or restrictive clothing
- Bright or neon-coloured outfits
- Flip-flops, high heels or slippery footwear
Winter Jacket
Scarf
Winter Gloves
Wool Beanie
Trousers
Shoes
- Layered clothing
- A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings
- Comfortable trousers
- Closed shoes
- A cap or scarf for cooler mornings
- Thin clothing without warm layers
- Shorts or sleeveless outfits without adequate layering
- Open-toed footwear
- Strong perfumes
Safari
Do's & Don'ts
Essential guidelines for a safe and respectful wild life experice
DO'S
- Carry your valid photo ID and safari booking confirmation.
- Follow the instructions of your authorised guide and driver.
- Maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
- Stay seated inside the safari vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
- Keep conversations low and avoid disturbing the forest.
- Carry sufficient drinking water.
- Keep your binoculars and camera ready.
- Follow the designated safari route and park regulations.
DON'TS
- Do not feed or attempt to attract wildlife.
- Do not make loud noises or play music.
- Do not litter or leave food behind.
- Do not stand up or lean out of the safari vehicle.
- Do not use flash photography around wildlife.
- Do not smoke inside the reserve.
- Do not disturb animals for photographs.
Essential Information
Everything you need to know before your safari adventure
Documents Required
-
Valid government-issued photo ID(Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License) -
Printed or digital copyOf safari booking confirmation -
Payment receiptsFor entry fees -
Foreign nationals:Valid passport with visa
Age Restrictions
-
Children below 5 years:Free entry (not recommended for very young children) -
Children 5–12 years:Discounted rates applicable -
No upper age limitbut ensure physical fitness for the safari duration -
Infantsmust be accompanied and held by adults at all times
Health & Safety Guidelines
-
Carry personal medicationsIf you have any health conditions -
Apply sunscreen and insect repellentBefore the safari -
Stay hydratedCarry at least 1–2 liters of water -
Inform your guideAbout any allergies or medical conditions -
Basic first aidAvailable at park gates; nearest hospital in Mandla (60 km)
What to Carry
Essentials
Binoculars
Camera with zoom lens
Sunglasses and hat
Water bottle
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Optional
Wildlife field guide book
Notebook and pen
Light snacks (no plastic)
Power bank for devices
Motion sickness medication
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
30+ days before:
Full refund minus processing fee
15–30 days before:
50% refund
Less than 15 days:
No refund
Rescheduling subject to availability;
₹200 modification fee applies
Safari cancelled due to weather:
Full refund or reschedule at no cost
Got questions? We've got answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Safari permits for the Maharashtra side of Pench Tiger Reserve can be booked through the Maharashtra Forest Department's official safari booking system. Check the available dates, safari gates and slots while making your reservation.
The Maharashtra side of Pench currently lists Sillari, Khubala, Kolitmara, Chorbahuli, Khursapar, Surewani, Banera and Maudi as safari gates. Availability depends on the current Forest Department booking inventory.
Khursapar Gate is the closest major safari gate to Sterling Orient Woods, approximately 5 km away and around 10 minutes by road. Sterling Orient Woods is also located close to the Khawasa Gate area.
Safari gate availability depends on the dates and inventory released by the Forest Department. You can select from the available options while making your booking, subject to availability.
There is no guaranteed “best” gate for wildlife sightings. Different gates provide access to different safari areas, while wildlife moves freely across its habitat. The right gate depends on your booking availability, location and safari plan.
No. Tigers and other wildlife move freely through their natural habitat. Sightings depend on animal movement, season, weather, water availability and chance.
Pench is home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, Indian gaur, sambar, chital, nilgai and a diverse range of birds.
The main safari season runs from October to June. Winter offers cooler weather, while the warmer months from March to June can offer rewarding wildlife experiences. The core area is closed during the monsoon, although designated buffer safaris operate from Surewani and Sillari, subject to Forest Department regulations.
Regular tourism in the core area is closed during the monsoon. However, buffer safaris are permitted in Nagalwadi through Surewani Gate and Paoni U.C. through Sillari Gate, allowing visitors to experience the forest during the monsoon.
Pench is strongly associated with Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book and is widely promoted as part of the landscape that inspired the classic.
Yes. Guests staying at Sterling Orient Woods can connect with the Safari Desk for assistance with safari planning, booking guidance, entry gates, permits and transfers.
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