Pench National Park, located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is a popular wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve. The park is named after the Pench River, which flows through the park and is a major source of water for the park’s wildlife. The park is spread over an area of 758 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the history, geography, wildlife, and attractions of Pench National Park.
History
Pench National Park has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century when it was used as a hunting ground by the kings of the Gond tribe. The park was later established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1975 and was declared a national park in 1983. The park is known for its conservation efforts and was awarded the “Best Maintained Tourist-Friendly National Park” award in 2011.
Geography
Pench National Park is located in the southern reaches of the Satpura Range and is spread over two states – Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The park is surrounded by hills and plateaus and is home to several rivers, including the Pench River, which flows through the park. The park is divided into two zones, namely the core zone and the buffer zone, each with its own unique flora and fauna.
Wildlife
Pench National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several endangered species. The park is particularly famous for its tiger population, with an estimated 50 tigers living in the park. Other predators in the park include leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs. The park is also home to several species of deer, including the chital, sambar, and nilgai, as well as several species of monkeys and langurs.
In addition to tigers, Pench National Park is also home to several other endangered species, including the Indian wolf, Indian leopard, and sloth bear. The park also has a rich birdlife, with over 285 species of birds recorded in the park.
Attractions
Pench National Park is a popular tourist destination, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich wildlife. The park offers several attractions for visitors, including:
Safari: Visitors can enjoy a safari ride in the park to see the wildlife up close. The park offers different types of safaris, including jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and canter safaris.
Birdwatching: With over 285 species of birds, Pench National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. The park offers several birdwatching trails for visitors to explore.
Nature Walks: Visitors can take nature walks in the park to explore the flora and fauna of the park. The park also offers guided nature walks for visitors.
Accommodation: Pench National Park offers several accommodation options for visitors, including luxury resorts, budget hotels, and forest lodges.
Conclusion
Pench National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers a unique opportunity to see the majestic tigers in their natural habitat, along with several other species of wildlife. With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history, Pench National Park is a true gem of India’s wildlife heritage. However, it is important to note that visitors should be respectful of the park’s conservation efforts and follow the park’s rules and regulations to ensure the preservation of the park’s wildlife and natural habitats.