If you’re a fan of wildlife or a person who dream of encountering tigers within their natural environment, Pench National Park must be on the top of your bucket lists. The park is situated on the borders of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench is famous for its lush teak forest with a variety of wildlife species, as well as peaceful beauty. It is exactly the same forest that prompted Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
The best part? Nagpur Junction Railway Station is the nearest major railway station to Pench. If you’re considering a journey, check out this comprehensive local guide to how to travel to Pench via Nagpur Station — that covers all possible travel routes cost and distances, as well as timings as well as insider information!
Step 1: Arrive at Nagpur Railway Station
Nagpur Junction (Station Code NGP) is a well-connected important railway station located in central India.
You are able to get here via cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Bhopal, or Hyderabad.
- The nearest airport (if you’re traveling by plane): Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Airport International, Nagpur (8 km away from the station)
- The best time to visit Pench: October to June (Safari season)
- Safari Gates to Choose from: Turia Gate (Madhya Side of Pradesh) and Sillari Gate (Maharashtra side)
Step 2: Select your route starting from Nagpur to Pench
It is possible to take two major routes that connect Nagpur towards Pench National Park depending on which gate to enter you select.
| Gate Name | Distance to Nagpur | Approx Travel Time | Road Condition | State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turia Gate (Most Popular) | 90 km | 2 2.5 hours 2.5 hours | Excellent via NH44 | Madhya Pradesh |
| Sillari Gate | 80 km | 2 hours | Beautiful, smooth | Maharashtra |
Step 3: Alternatives to Travel starting from Nagpur Station to Pench
Let’s take a look at all possible travel options including local information as well as a cost estimate
Option 1: By Taxi or Cab (Most Convenient)
- The Travel time is Between 2 and 2.5 hours
- Fare: Rs2,500 – Rs3,500 (one way)
- Route: Nagpur – Mansar – Khawasa – Turia (NH44)
- Taxis available: Ola Outstation, Uber Intercity, or local taxi services close to Nagpur Station.
- TIP: Negotiate for a round-trip if you intend to return on the same day. A lot of drivers know the Pench route, and will aid you in locating excellent local Dhabas (roadside eateries).
Option 2: By Self-Drive Car or Rental
- Distance: Around 90 km
- Cost of Fuel: Rs700 – Rs1,000 (one way)
- Time: 2 hours approx
- Car Rentals: Zoomcar, Revv Local Nagpur car rental firms.
- Parking It is located near to all important gates to safari (Turia, Sillari, Khursapar).
Local Tip Begin early (around 6 am) departing from Nagpur to arrive at Pench before 8 AMideal timing for the sunrise safari entries.
Option 3: By Bus (Budget-Friendly)
- Buses available at: Nagpur Bus Stand (near station)
- Route: Nagpur – Khawasa – Seoni – Pench (Turia Gate)
- Duration of Travel: 3.5 or 4 hours
- Fare: Rs200 – Rs300 (ordinary bus)
- Format: MSRTC (Maharashtra State) and private buses also are in operation frequently.
- Drop Point Khawasa (or Sillari junction. From there, get taxis from the local area (Rs400-Rs600) to the gate or your resort.
NOTE: Direct buses to Pench are very rare. The majority of buses travel through Khawasa located just 12 km away from Turia Gate.
Option 4: Shared Jeep / Local Transport (For Budget Travellers)
- At Khawasa and Mansar Mansar or Khawasa, there are shared jeeps as well as taxis local for Pench Gate.
- Fare: Rs150-Rs300 per seat
- Available: Mostly in the early morning or late in the in the afternoon.
- The best choice for Travelers on a backpack or solo looking for a truly local experience.
Step 4: Food and Refreshment Stops En Route
Locally, you can find good cafes, dhabas, and restaurants on NH44. These are some of the most frequent places to stop:
- Highway Treat, Mansar – known for tea, poha as well as snacks
- Royal Dhaba, Khawasa famous for its Thali meals
- Forest Cafe near Turia Gate Great for brunch following your drive
Pro Tips: Try local delicacies such as Zunka Bhakar or Sabudana Vada They’re both tasty and fresh!
Step 5: Where to Stay in Pench
If you’re on a budget You can choose accommodation that costs from $1200 per night up to more than Rs10,000 luxurious stay.
| Category | Resort Name | Approx. Price/Night |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Pench Tree Lodge, Tiger N Woods | Rs1,200 – Rs2,000 |
| Mid-range | Tuli Tiger Corridor, Village Machaan | Rs3,000 – Rs5,000 |
| Luxury | Taj Baghvan, Pench Jungle Camp | Rs8,000 – Rs15,000 |
Local Tips: Always pre-book your hotel and safari permits in advance particularly during the weekend and on holidays.
Step 6: Entry Gates and Safari Details
| Gate | Safari Zone | Best For | Distance to Nagpur |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turia Gate | Core Zone | Most popular, frequent tiger sightings | 90 km |
| Sillari Gate | Buffer Zone | More peaceful and less congested | 80 km |
| Khursapar Gate | Buffer Zone | Great birdwatching and scenic | 75 km |
- Safari Timings: Morning (6 AM – 10 AM) | Evening (3 PM – 6 PM)
- Permit Booking: forest.mponline.gov.in
- Cost: Rs1,500 – Rs2,500 per Gypsy (shared basis)
Local Insight: Best Travel Plan (Recommended Itinerary)
Day 1. Arrive Nagpur Station – Drive to Pench (2 hours) After which you check-in and enjoy a relaxing Day 2: Early morning safari Take a tour of nearby villages. day safari: breakfast and return to Nagpur
The total duration of the trip is 2 three days, 2 nights (ideal for nature lovers, or trips with the family)
Final Tips Before You Go
- You must carry a valid identification card for the entry into a safari
- Do not drive at night (forest areas roads are dim)
- Make sure you have some money; the network is weak close to forest gates
- The safari booker must be booked minimum 15 days prior to the date of departure.
- Be respectful of wildlife. No noise, and no trashing
Summary: Quick Travel Info Table
| From | To | Distance | Travel Time | Best Mode | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nagpur Station | Pench (Turia Gate) | 90 km | 2 hrs | Taxi / Car | Rs2,500 – Rs3,500 |
| Nagpur Station | Pench (Sillari Gate) | 80 km | 2 hrs | Taxi / Car | Rs2,000 – Rs3,000 |
Conclusion
To reach Pench starting from Nagpur Station is simple as well as scenic and secure no matter if you’re driving on your own, hiring taxis or the local bus. It’s a short journey of just two hours that is rewarded with the most stunning tiger reserves in which peace, nature, and excitement meet.
Take your camera, put on comfortable attire, and be ready to go on a wild adventure of India -the Pench National Park!